Young's River Valley Loop

This is a loop ride from the town of Astoria through the Young's River valley which is south of Astoria. The loop follows low rolling hills through the bucolic farm filled valley. To begin, you can either take the shorter, but very steep route up 8th street to the Old Young's River bridge. The easier, but longer, option is to follow the waterfront bike path west out of town. Before you get to the New Young's River bridge, follow the circle to Jewel along business 101 until you get to the old bridge.

From the bridge, head south along business 101 until you reach the Miles  crossing intersection. Here, you'll head southwest on Lewis and Clark road, where the rolling countryside begins. Pay close attention for the Logan road turnoff. The main road bends right, but you will stay straight. Not long after the Logan road turns off, watch for Tucker creek road on your left.

As you race down Tucker creek, you'll realize why I recommend doing this loop in a counter clockwise direction. Tucker Creek ends at Young's River rd, where you'll turn right and continue south. Watch for the signs for Youngs River falls. This is an enjoyable detour to a 10 foot waterfall on the coast. More than once, I've cooled off in the pool just below the falls.

After your break, continue on Youngs River road as it hair pins to form the base of your loop ride. You'll reach a busy intersection and cross a bridge over the river as you head up the hill to Olney. When you get to highway 202, turn left to get to the tiny town of Olney.

Olney contains my second favorite diversion on this ride after the waterfall, the Big O tavern. This bike and biker friendly place is an ideal spot for food and drink. They also have an outdoor seating area if you're not overheating at this point.

From Olney, you follow the Nehalem highway (Hwy 202) north to Astoria. There are a few gorgeous views of the Young's river on your return trip so have your camera accessible. Once you return to Astoria, you can choose to follow the main highway around the peninsula for the flat return to town. I, however, like to end the ride with one last climb, veering right off of 202 at Williamsport road which takes you as humanely as is possible over the hill to Astoria. You're also rewarded with great views as you crest the hill and then drop into town on those San Francisco style hills.