Thas to be one of the best rides in western Lane County. It has a bit of everything: a single lane interpretive nature drive, views of the ocean, steep descents, and miles of fast cruising on abandoned double-track. This ride involves a 1500 foot climb on single lane asphalt, and thus is physically demanding.
The loop starts at the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center, which is 22 miles north of Florence on Highway 101. Tour the Visitors Center for the Forest Service's perspective on timber management, and other interesting information.
You can leave your car in the parking lot as long as you return before the lot closes at dusk. Otherwise, drive a few hundred yards north of the Center on Highway 101 and park near the Cape Perpetua Campground.
Proceed up the Auto Tour Route road. It will be steep. If you are interested in a fantastic view, take the left fork at the junction 0.8 miles up the road to the scenic overlook. This steep 1 mile side trip may be one of the best ocean views you will ever see. To continue the ride, follow the Auto Tour Route, which has almost no traffic. There will be occasional distant views of the ocean. At 3.9 miles from the start of the ride, you will find the trailhead on the right.
The trail lies at the edge of a clearcut, and has a turnout and a sign. From the trailbead, proceed 0.5 mile to junction with Gwynn Creek. Gwynn Creek is closed to mountain bikes so stay left. The trail is a bit overgrown here, and continues up a bit more, topping out at 1500 feet. The next mile is a steep descent, with rocks. Donçt get discouraged, it soon improves. At 5.1 miles from the start, the trail joins an abandoned road that gently heads back to sea level. Some of it is single, and some double track. This road eventually returns to Highway 101, just south of the Visitors Center. Proceed north carefully 0.9 mile on Highway 101 back to your car.
Bruce V Mason
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