Bikepacking the Pacific Northwest
My name is Matt, and I've been on the Road Runner Bags team since 2017. I operate our CNC machine and sew backpacks most days. Recently, I took some time off to bike down the Pacific Coast Highway. I started in Portland, Oregon, and ended in Northern California amongst the Redwoods. I hope you enjoy the ride report and consider this route for yourself!
Day 0
After an early flight from Los Angeles, I arrived at the Portland Airport with my bike box somewhat kept together. Although the chainring cut through the box, it all worked out, and I consider it a learning experience. This wasn't my first bikepacking trip, but it was my first flight with a bike.
In a rush to pack everything, I forgot to grab my helmet before leaving for the airport. It became my first task to find one, preferably cheap and/or used. My seven other companions had already arrived and were staying downtown. After meeting up, we went across the Willamette River to a bike co-op called Bikefarm. Pay them a visit if you're ever exploring downtown PDX.
Luckily, I found a helmet in the free bin. I also couldn’t pass up the brand-new XL neon pink leg warmers.
Free Helmet!
XL Hot pink leg warmers!
Riding around Washington Park is one of my favorite things to do in Portland. The rose garden was in full bloom, and not a drop of rain was in sight.
Day 1
Monday morning came quickly, and we rode into the Tillamook Forest as a group.
On our first night, we set up camp in Cape Lookout State Park. Most of us had everything soaked from the rain and needed a solid dinner to keep our spirits high.
End of Day 1: 75 Miles and 2,494 ft of elevation gain.
Day 2
We all put our tents and clothes in the sun first thing in the morning, eventually packing everything up damp and heading to South Beach, just south of Newport.
End of Day 2: 75 miles and 4,100 ft of elevation gain.
Day 3
Our next campsite was at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful days. The roads were narrow and right up against the cliff faces. Both shocking and beautiful to view the waterfront.
End of Day 3: 77 miles with 3,678 ft of elevation gain
Day 4
Today's end goal was Camp Blanco, ironically with a much dreamier lighthouse than the day before. The last 5 miles became a chase and all-out sprint to get to camp first.
Breakfast!
Dune week! Brrrap!
End of Day 4: 81 miles with 3,950 ft of elevation gain
Day 5
Harris Beach State Park, just north of Brookings, was a stretch down the Pacific Coast Highway with Gold Beach at our halfway point.
End of Day 5: 67 miles with 3,980 ft elevation gain
Day 6
We finally reached the California—Oregon border. Our last day was cut short, but a change in plans set us to camp in Jedediah Smith State Park, just inland from Crescent City. The redwood trees were absolutely stunning.
End of Day 6: 45 miles with 1,588 feet of elevation gain
Day 7
The trip was now at its end to head back home to LA. We had ridden into town to get to a rental cargo van. Unfortunately, they only had a mini van for us to cram our loaded bikes, gear, and crew into. We made it fit! :)
Thanks to all my friends for the good times and for sharing their photographs. I couldn't have done it without you – Steven, Crosby, Aaron, Mark, Rios, David, & Chen!
