This scenic Coast Range ride culmi-nates with a stop at Pawn Trail. Here riders can take a break from the saddle and hike through a spectacular old growth grove. To get to the ride, travel west on Highway 126. Turn right at the Mapleton/Highway 36 junction; continue 3 miles to Brickerville. Turn left onto Road 5070 at the sign North Fork Road.
The main challenge lies at the beginning of the journey. Climb 1.5 miles up to the apex where Road 5070 meets Road 719. Keep to the right to remain on Road 5070. Tight switchbacks provide a fast and daring descent.
This historic road, constructed in 1908, was once the main thoroughfare for early settlers wishing to travel from the Willamette Valley to the coast. A horse trail preceded the road. Much of todayçs road covers the old road and trail. Parts of the old trail can still be seen through the trees on the right as you make your descent.
The ride flattens once Mapleton Hill Road meets North Fork Road 5084.
Take a right, and pedal along the scenic North Fork of the Siuslaw River. The river's soft gurgle provides a nice ambiance. You'll find Pawn Trail about 2 miles beyond the North Fork campground at the junction of the North Fork Road and Road 2553. This short, "hiker only" trail is definitely worth exploring by foot.
On the return trip, you can follow the fairly level North Fork Road down stream to it's terminus, and ride Highway 126 back to your car. The highway has heavy traffic, though, and is somewhat unpleasant. In that light, climbing back up the switchbacks on Mapleton Hill Road, the way you came, is the more rewarding route.
Julie Cox
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