Southern Oregon Coast (Florence to Brookings)

The northern Oregon coast is easily accessible to the majority of the state’s population in Portland and the Willamette Valley. Here’s a chance to ride the coast in relative isolation (at least compared to the throngs up north) for three days of moderate mileage and unparalleled scenery. You can easily find bike-camping spots, or go the credit-card-camping route.

Start in Florence and head south past the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area toward Reedsport. There’s a hearty climb of about 400 feet before you roll down through Gardiner and into Reedsport. Just south of town you’ll pass by Winchester Bay, then the Umpqua Lighthouse and more monstrous dunes before rolling into the North Bend/Coos Bay area. Luckily, the route directs you off Highway 101 here, onto the Cape Arago Highway. If you’re camping, ride out to Bastendorf County Park or Sunset Bay State Park, which both offer designated bike campsites. If you’re lodging, try something in North Bend – but that’ll make today shorter and tomorrow longer. Mileage: approx. 55 to Cape Arago.

On day two, you’ll head out on Seven Devils and Beaver Hill roads for some early-morning work. The route goes up more than 500 feet, followed by a series of sharp rollers before dropping back down to Highway 101 just north of Bandon. Near Bandon you’ll be routed off 101 again for a stretch of rocky coastline near Face Rock. After reconnecting with 101 for some peaceful pastureland stretches, choose either camping at Cape Blanco State Park or lodging in charming Port Orford. Mileage: approx. 50.

On the final day, get ready for some stunning scenery. After a series of rollers between Port Orford and Gold Beach, you’ll scale mighty Cape Sebastian – the highest point on the Oregon Coast. It’s hard work, but the descent down the other side to the Pistol River is positively scintillating, as you can see long stretches of rocky headlands punctuated by golden beaches. There’s more up-and-down before dropping down onto Harris Beach, a jewel of the southern coast and a great camping spot, or roll on into Brookings, which offers plenty of lodging and other amenities. Mileage: approx. 55.

Motorized Vehicle Traffic: Moderate to Heavy

Seasons: All