On the Road to Banks, OR
After 2 weeks working in Portland, OR, I started my Oregon cycling trip this morning. I was hoping to start at 9AM but had to return a pair of cycling shorts to REI early in the morning and it pushed back my departure 2 1/2 hours. I had no idea that the first several miles were going to be straight uphill on Burnside St. to get over the mountains west of Portland. I made the mistake of stopping for a breather and then had to push the bike and 60lb. load the rest of the way up. The good thing is that once I was up and down, the rest of the day was relatively flat.
I was heading to Banks, OR first so that I could hookup with the Banks-Vernonia trail. Banks is 30 miles from Portland—30 miles was my planned max riding distance a day. However, I wanted to push my self the first day so I could have some miles in the bank in case I needed them later in the trip. I stopped in Banks for a pizza and then headed directly for the trail. The total length is 22 miles. The first three miles were relatively flat and easy. The next 8 was a steady climb on a slight incline…I wasn’t ready for it and it was a bit demoralizing. Thankfully, at mile 12, things flattened out and the rest of the ride into Vernonia was fast. At the end of the trail was a campground…a sight for sore eyes. I am writing this post from the campground picnic table.
Tomorrow, I am going to try to push myself again and do 40 miles towards Astoria–we’ll see how that goes.
Some pics:
Dave,
The Raven looks fantastic “out in the wild” and I’m so glad you have started your tour. All best wishes your way for a smooth and enjoyable adventure here in Oregon. Do take care, and know good thoughts go with you. All the best, Dan.