Day 37 – Bicycle Touring Cape Lookout SP to Nehalem Bay SP. Tillamook factory, Twin rocks and Garibaldi

I got out of camp what I consider somewhat late at 8:30. But still, I was the third one that was leaving out of the eight that were there.

Even after starting my ride I was considering three options for the day. One option was to head directly for Nehalem bay which would be about a 40 mile ride. The other option was to head for Nehalem bay, but attempt to do the Cape Meares loop for additional miles and views. The loop road is closed for cars, but it may be possible for bicycles. But I wasn’t sure it was passable. If it wasn’t, I would have to backtrack. I don’t like back tracking. The third option would be to make an attempt to get all the way to Fort Stevens State Park. But that would be 78 miles.

I decided before reaching Tillamook, that I would just do the direct 40 mile distance to Nehalem bay. I reached this conclusion because I wanted to set up for a possible long direct ride home from Fort Stevens State Park. Going to Fort Stevens today would be difficult due to the headwinds and distance. It wouldn’t work with two hard days in a row.

I’ve entered more familiar territory now. This makes it a little relaxing and nostalgic. I’m already savoring these last few days as an much as possible as I’m getting close to finishing my goal.

I made it to Nehalem Bay state park early at around 3. The agent checking me in, was interested in taking up bike touring. We talked a little, but then he had to help other people. I came back later and gave him a contact card in case he wanted to ask more questions.

Even though I got to the camp early, there was already a couple in camp. In total there are at least 8 people at 9pm. A few of them are hikers doing the Oregon coast trail. Both the hikers and bikers are increasing now. Everyday in the last week on the road, I pass 8 or more south bounders. I think it’s in full season.

Tomorrow I do another short ride but with more climbing and I expect more headwinds as well. I will camp at Fort Stevens State Park which is just outside of Astoria. While riding today, I briefly talked to a southbound biker and he reports that there are a lot of mosquitoes at Fort Stevens. Since mosquitoes love me, most likely I’ll have to take refuge in the tent.

Ride summary: 3/10 difficulty, 41 miles with 1676 feet of climbing. Mostly sunny and temperature was cool at times, but warmed throughout the day. Strong headwinds at end, but only a minor impact due to short ride and sheltered conditions. Today’s ride detailed GPS. Tour totals: 1786 miles (48 / day). 102,062 climbing feet.