TOUR DE CALIFORNIA 2019
Location: Salem, Oregon - Eureka, California
Total Miles: 450 Miles
Date: August 2019
Duration: 12 Days
Level: Easy
Total Miles: 450 Miles
Date: August 2019
Duration: 12 Days
Level: Easy
Summary:
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most sought-after routes among cyclists. Two months after graduating from the University Of Washington, I planned a 450-mile tour from Salem Oregon to Eureka, California. For 12 days, Mike and I traversed the winding coastal roads of the Pacific Coast Highway on our bicycles. As we pedaled southward, we encountered other travelers and locals, each with their own tales of adventure and discovery. We shared meals and stories, swapped tips and advice on the best places to camp and the most scenic routes to take. We spent our days exploring the beaches, buying local groceries from small towns, and soaking in the stunning views of the coastline. On hot afternoons, we cooled off by plunging into the cold waters of the Pacific, feeling the salty spray of the waves on our skin and the rush of adrenaline that comes with immersing oneself in the open ocean. At night, we settled into our campsites, my dream dreams vivid, accompanied by loved ones as if they had joined me on this trip too. Our destination: the Redwoods, a place of awe-inspiring majesty and ancient history. This tour ignited my passion for exploring the world by bike and opened my eyes to the boundless wonder of the natural world.
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most sought-after routes among cyclists. Two months after graduating from the University Of Washington, I planned a 450-mile tour from Salem Oregon to Eureka, California. For 12 days, Mike and I traversed the winding coastal roads of the Pacific Coast Highway on our bicycles. As we pedaled southward, we encountered other travelers and locals, each with their own tales of adventure and discovery. We shared meals and stories, swapped tips and advice on the best places to camp and the most scenic routes to take. We spent our days exploring the beaches, buying local groceries from small towns, and soaking in the stunning views of the coastline. On hot afternoons, we cooled off by plunging into the cold waters of the Pacific, feeling the salty spray of the waves on our skin and the rush of adrenaline that comes with immersing oneself in the open ocean. At night, we settled into our campsites, my dream dreams vivid, accompanied by loved ones as if they had joined me on this trip too. Our destination: the Redwoods, a place of awe-inspiring majesty and ancient history. This tour ignited my passion for exploring the world by bike and opened my eyes to the boundless wonder of the natural world.
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The Redwoods:
The day we were set to arrive at the Redwoods, a grueling 1,000’ climb stretched over 10 miles. It was a testament to our determination. We took a break at a gas station to refuel before continuing the journey into the national park. The gas station was adjacent to a newly developed casino. There was a blunt disparity between capitalist consumerism and the local native community lacking resources. As we sat at a picnic table, two men commuting by foot approached us. One of the men was wearing his well-worn veteran's hat and appeared to be under a substance. They were respectful and were simply intrigued by our journey. The veteran told us about his wife who recently passed and told stories of when he fought in Vietnam. He appeared to just want someone to listen. I still think about this man and hope he has found peace.
After lunch, we set off for the remainder of the day’s route. We pushed ourselves to the limit, and at times felt impossible. As we ascended the foliage began to change, and the trees began to thicken and grow taller. Moments were filled with awe and wonder but also found our bodies aching until we reached the summit before our magnificent descent. The ride down into the ranger's booth was filled with peace and tranquility. When we finally reached the redwoods, their majesty and grandeur exclaimed the resilience of nature. These ancient trees, some of which date back over 2,000 years, stood like sentinels of time. As we rode through the towering forests, we felt a sense of humility and wonder. We were mere specks in a world that had existed long before us, and will hopefully continue to thrive long after my lifetime.
The day we were set to arrive at the Redwoods, a grueling 1,000’ climb stretched over 10 miles. It was a testament to our determination. We took a break at a gas station to refuel before continuing the journey into the national park. The gas station was adjacent to a newly developed casino. There was a blunt disparity between capitalist consumerism and the local native community lacking resources. As we sat at a picnic table, two men commuting by foot approached us. One of the men was wearing his well-worn veteran's hat and appeared to be under a substance. They were respectful and were simply intrigued by our journey. The veteran told us about his wife who recently passed and told stories of when he fought in Vietnam. He appeared to just want someone to listen. I still think about this man and hope he has found peace.
After lunch, we set off for the remainder of the day’s route. We pushed ourselves to the limit, and at times felt impossible. As we ascended the foliage began to change, and the trees began to thicken and grow taller. Moments were filled with awe and wonder but also found our bodies aching until we reached the summit before our magnificent descent. The ride down into the ranger's booth was filled with peace and tranquility. When we finally reached the redwoods, their majesty and grandeur exclaimed the resilience of nature. These ancient trees, some of which date back over 2,000 years, stood like sentinels of time. As we rode through the towering forests, we felt a sense of humility and wonder. We were mere specks in a world that had existed long before us, and will hopefully continue to thrive long after my lifetime.
The Ride:
The Pacific Coast Highway has a well-developed bike infrastructure, making it an optimal destination for cyclists. We departed from Seattle, Washington to Salem, Oregon via Amtrak. A delay due to a mechanical malfunction caused our train to get stuck halfway, forcing us to arrive at our destination around 1 am. As we set out the next morning, my bike got its first flat tire. I would later learn the struggles of using a road bike with thin tires as I would suffer six additional flats. We encountered a series of challenges and moments of fear. Riding alongside the massive semi-trucks hauling wooden logs, we couldn't help but be reminded of the Final Destination movies. We passed a wreck, countless alters, and rerouted at The Seven Devils known for the lives this enchanting path has taken. We were constantly on the lookout for bears and mountain lions, knowing that we shared this land with these magnificent creatures.
Yet, despite these moments of fear, we remained steadfast in our determination to explore and appreciate all that the Pacific coast had to offer. There were plenty of moments in idyllic settings and unforgettable memories. One day, while pulled over to review our map, I caught sight of a whale for the first time. This moment left us breathless, awestruck by this creature swimming in harmony. For two weeks we would take in the incredible sights, sounds, and smells of the world around us. From the towering cliffs and crashing waves of Cape Perpetua, to the rocky coves and experiencing the sheer force of The Devil’s Punchbowl, the Pacific coast offered a never-ending parade of natural beauty.
The Pacific Coast Highway has a well-developed bike infrastructure, making it an optimal destination for cyclists. We departed from Seattle, Washington to Salem, Oregon via Amtrak. A delay due to a mechanical malfunction caused our train to get stuck halfway, forcing us to arrive at our destination around 1 am. As we set out the next morning, my bike got its first flat tire. I would later learn the struggles of using a road bike with thin tires as I would suffer six additional flats. We encountered a series of challenges and moments of fear. Riding alongside the massive semi-trucks hauling wooden logs, we couldn't help but be reminded of the Final Destination movies. We passed a wreck, countless alters, and rerouted at The Seven Devils known for the lives this enchanting path has taken. We were constantly on the lookout for bears and mountain lions, knowing that we shared this land with these magnificent creatures.
Yet, despite these moments of fear, we remained steadfast in our determination to explore and appreciate all that the Pacific coast had to offer. There were plenty of moments in idyllic settings and unforgettable memories. One day, while pulled over to review our map, I caught sight of a whale for the first time. This moment left us breathless, awestruck by this creature swimming in harmony. For two weeks we would take in the incredible sights, sounds, and smells of the world around us. From the towering cliffs and crashing waves of Cape Perpetua, to the rocky coves and experiencing the sheer force of The Devil’s Punchbowl, the Pacific coast offered a never-ending parade of natural beauty.
Camping:
In addition to great infrastructure, The Pacific Coast Highway is best for beginner riders due to its great hiker-biker camping accommodations. As one rides along this iconic highway, the scent of the ocean mingling with the crisp coastal air, one will come across hiker-biker campsites scattered along the way. Those who arrive by bike or foot are guaranteed a spot. These campsites offer a place to rest and recharge amidst the stunning scenery. In Oregon, these campsites often come with free showers, allowing travelers to refresh themselves after a long day of riding. But as one crosses into California, they will find that these showers vary in price.
Despite the costs, the beauty of camping along the Pacific coast is unparalleled. Each night we would set up camp and gather around nightly campfires. Some nights we would camp on our own, but most nights we would gather with other travelers and bond over shared experiences and highlights as the light of the fire flickered across our faces. We met a woman who used to work for NASA who regaled us with stories of her profession. We also met a French girl duo who had traveled specifically for this adventure, their excitement, and laughter were contagious. In fact, it was incredible to see that 75% of the people traveling were women. As the stars twinkled overhead and the sound of the waves echoed in the distance, we felt a sense of peace. As the night grew darker and the fire was out, we settled into our tents, and the sound of seals could be heard echoing along the coast. Their mournful calls mingled with the rhythmic waves, creating a symphony of sound that filled the night air. As the sun rose, we would emerge from their tents, ready to continue our journey.
In addition to great infrastructure, The Pacific Coast Highway is best for beginner riders due to its great hiker-biker camping accommodations. As one rides along this iconic highway, the scent of the ocean mingling with the crisp coastal air, one will come across hiker-biker campsites scattered along the way. Those who arrive by bike or foot are guaranteed a spot. These campsites offer a place to rest and recharge amidst the stunning scenery. In Oregon, these campsites often come with free showers, allowing travelers to refresh themselves after a long day of riding. But as one crosses into California, they will find that these showers vary in price.
Despite the costs, the beauty of camping along the Pacific coast is unparalleled. Each night we would set up camp and gather around nightly campfires. Some nights we would camp on our own, but most nights we would gather with other travelers and bond over shared experiences and highlights as the light of the fire flickered across our faces. We met a woman who used to work for NASA who regaled us with stories of her profession. We also met a French girl duo who had traveled specifically for this adventure, their excitement, and laughter were contagious. In fact, it was incredible to see that 75% of the people traveling were women. As the stars twinkled overhead and the sound of the waves echoed in the distance, we felt a sense of peace. As the night grew darker and the fire was out, we settled into our tents, and the sound of seals could be heard echoing along the coast. Their mournful calls mingled with the rhythmic waves, creating a symphony of sound that filled the night air. As the sun rose, we would emerge from their tents, ready to continue our journey.
Water:
Soon after arriving at our campgrounds, our first order of business was often to seek out the spigot and refill our water bottles. The cool, refreshing liquid flowed into our bodies, a welcome respite from the day's exertions. And yet, as much as we relied on these campsite water sources for our hydration needs, we were also acutely aware of the importance of carrying our own water supply. Small towns along the way provided opportunities to stock up, and we would often find ourselves lingering in their markets and shops, chatting with locals and restocking our supplies.
Soon after arriving at our campgrounds, our first order of business was often to seek out the spigot and refill our water bottles. The cool, refreshing liquid flowed into our bodies, a welcome respite from the day's exertions. And yet, as much as we relied on these campsite water sources for our hydration needs, we were also acutely aware of the importance of carrying our own water supply. Small towns along the way provided opportunities to stock up, and we would often find ourselves lingering in their markets and shops, chatting with locals and restocking our supplies.
Food:
Gas station fare and diner meals provided quick and easy options for fueling our bodies, though the nutritional content of such meals was often suspect. We were often sustained by a mixture of convenience and necessity. While we could feel the immediate energy boost from these quick meals, there was always a lingering sense of emptiness - a sense that we were not fully nourishing ourselves for the journey ahead.
It was with great excitement and anticipation the nights we cooked over an open flame. Wrapped in foil and nestled among the burning logs of our campfire, our meals took on a new life. Potatoes, sausage, a medley of vegetables, and a variety of spices sizzled, each ingredient contributing to a masterpiece that left us feeling truly nourished and energized. After dinner, we would pack any leftovers and other scented items in a bear canister and place them away from our campground. While the lure of quick and easy meals was always present along the Pacific coast highway, it was the moments of connection to local nourishment that truly sustained us on our journey.
Gas station fare and diner meals provided quick and easy options for fueling our bodies, though the nutritional content of such meals was often suspect. We were often sustained by a mixture of convenience and necessity. While we could feel the immediate energy boost from these quick meals, there was always a lingering sense of emptiness - a sense that we were not fully nourishing ourselves for the journey ahead.
It was with great excitement and anticipation the nights we cooked over an open flame. Wrapped in foil and nestled among the burning logs of our campfire, our meals took on a new life. Potatoes, sausage, a medley of vegetables, and a variety of spices sizzled, each ingredient contributing to a masterpiece that left us feeling truly nourished and energized. After dinner, we would pack any leftovers and other scented items in a bear canister and place them away from our campground. While the lure of quick and easy meals was always present along the Pacific coast highway, it was the moments of connection to local nourishment that truly sustained us on our journey.
Helpful Resources
12 Day Tour Schedule: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1JwkcSG22unpPskqai1SR5swuSAJrKR63zolNNOPKyKQ/edit?usp=sharing
Oregon State Bike Map With Campgrounds: Oregon-Coat-PDF
Route On Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1ED4XZEd452GSmiCIDHQeSjLhzJhE3b2q&usp=sharing
12 Day Tour Schedule: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1JwkcSG22unpPskqai1SR5swuSAJrKR63zolNNOPKyKQ/edit?usp=sharing
Oregon State Bike Map With Campgrounds: Oregon-Coat-PDF
Route On Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1ED4XZEd452GSmiCIDHQeSjLhzJhE3b2q&usp=sharing