Three Capes Loop

This 52 mile loop starts and ends in Tillamook and includes Cape Mears, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda.

Head west out of town on 3rd street until it becomes the Netarts highway. It's a peaceful but somewhat fragrant ride as you pass the fields full of dairy cows that Tillamook is known for. Bayocean drive peels off to your right, but this former part of the loop has been shut down for years due to a landslide.

You will continue on the Netarts highway to the Whiskey creek turnoff. If you want to legitimately visit all 3 capes, and add miles to your trip, you can stay on the highway to Cape Mears. Otherwise, turn left onto Whiskey Creek. This will bring you to Netarts Bay road which hugs the edge of the bay by the same name.

Head south and climb a low hill over Cape Lookout. As you round the cape, you cross through the dunes of Sand Lake Recreation area. when you reach Sand lake road, turn right and head south. You can shorten the ride quite a few miles if you go straight on Sand lake road instead of turning right, but I think the visit to Pacific City is worth it.

You continue past the recreation and begin to climb one of the largest sand dunes on the coast as you leave the little community of Tierra Del Mar. Descending into Pacific city, Cape Kiwanda reaches out to your right. This is a highly recommended stop to climb the giant sand dune and check out the cape. Replenish your energy with a meal at the Pelican brewery.

To complete the loop, head south and cross the bridge into Pacific City. Turn right on Brooten road and follow it until it ends at highway 101. Turn left and follow it all the way back to Tillamook, passing through the unremarkable towns of Cloverdale and Hebo.