Biking Across the U.S (hopefully)
Avery Park - Portland 99
Portland - Astoria 90 Biking down the gorge (the banks of the Columbia River) you have two options - highway 14 on the Washington side with more hills and a lower shoulder, or the shoulder of the freeway and some frontage roads on the Oregon side. I chose the Washington route since it seemed calmer, and wanted to continue avoiding the interstate. Even on the roughest hills I'd look over to the Oregon side, content with my choice as I saw a never ending parade of semis cruising down the interstate. After each hill I secretly prayed somehow Washington and Oregon would just flatten out to the ocean.... I mean, if you're following a river to its dump-off-point, shouldn't it all be a downhill grade? No dice. Crossing over onto the Oregon side via the Bridge of Gods was kind of cool - it's this old toll bridge right off the Pacific Crest Trail, so they allow pedestrian crossing on the roadway. So the little town of Cascade Locks is flooded with travelers. Made the final pull towards Portland along the Historic Columbia River highway, taking me past waterfalls and vistas of the Columbia River. Of course, right before the crest of a major hill I saw a rock... thought I avoided it... then felt a pop in my back tire. That sucker lasted the whole trip, so I couldn't be too upset at the half inch gash and proceeding tire change. Made it to Portland, staying with my cousin and his wife. Awesome company, a bed, and pizza... a good end to a rough day. In the morning I made the long trek towards Astoria along highway 30, this god awful trucking route with a handful of ridiculously tough climbs. I wasn't even mad when I got my third flat 10 miles out of town... without a spare tube and unable to find my patch kit. I know the older generation is well versed in this, but I didn't really know how to throw a thumb out. Do you do it right as the car is coming by? Just keep it high in the air? Target only trucks that can hold a bike? Thankfully the first pickup that passed pulled over and gave me a lift to the bike shop - an anticlimactic end for getting on towards the coast. In the morning I made the short 8 mile ride out to the 'official' Oregon coast, expecting a standing ovation and fan fare. Instead it's overcast, windy, and the beach is pretty barren. But I lugged my bike the half-mile down (aptly named) Sunset Beach and ceremoniously dipped the front wheel in the Pacific. It's over, all done, finito, shows over. My booty and legs are pretty ready for it. I'll spend the next day or so leisurely biking along the coast, calling it quits and taking a bus back to Portland whenever I darn well please. I'm going to sleep in, eat food other than ramen... and 'plan' my next trip. Most mornings, after the preoccupation of packing up and starting the day wore off, I'd have to get off my bike and get myself together a little. It's been a really hard trip without my mom, but I know she had my back on a lot of it, and would be pretty delighted by the adventure. Except for the stretches where I didn't wear my helmet.
12 Comments
Mack Staton
8/9/2017 10:30:07 am
Fantastic trip Alex, I am envious and admire the effort you put in. You'll never forget this. Wonderful that you talk about your mom having your back; she certainly is proud of you.
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Cara
8/9/2017 12:17:12 pm
This is seriously amazing, Alex! Way to go. I love to think of Mo having your back - especially on the big hills.
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Donna King
8/9/2017 12:52:33 pm
Oh Alex - proud is way too small a word! And anyway, maybe it's more that I'm happy FOR you rather than proud OF you. I've been feeling your Mom a lot today, and maybe your arrival at "Sunset Beach" is the reason...
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John Soper
8/9/2017 02:17:12 pm
I'm so glad you made it! What a trip & what memories. You're right, your Mom would be so proud of you and rode on your shoulder the entire way. See you soon. Love, Dad
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Anna Larson
8/9/2017 05:48:20 pm
Alex!! What an amazing journey! Congrats on the finish!! Hope I can buy you some ice cream upon your return!
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Linda reyner
8/10/2017 04:39:38 am
You are amazing. So glad you finished! I know the journey will be used! Can't wait to hear about it.
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Beth Rusnak
8/10/2017 05:48:25 am
Way to go Alex! What a joy to follow your adventure via your blog and the wonderful people along the way. You are incredible!!!
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pete g
8/10/2017 09:48:12 am
congrats and kudos to the rider.
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Judy and Kevin
8/10/2017 05:44:01 pm
We just heard the news!!! I'm in tears...so happppppy for you and thinking about your mom, Sunset Beach and what you've just accomplished. Thanks for bringing us along on your trip. Priceless!! xo judy
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Molly O'Connor
8/13/2017 05:29:49 am
I'm late to the game, but congrats Alex!! Amazing feat! Gorgeous photos and blog - thanks for the inspiration! Love Molly
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Rasheeda
8/13/2017 05:46:16 am
Glad you made it successfully on your journey. Many hearts and minds were with you on your travels. Hope you enjoy your time on the coast. Get back to NC safely please!
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AuthorHey I'm Alex Soper, a dude living in Durham, NC. Shoot me an email if you want [email protected] ArchivesCategories |