Scenic forest roads, spectacular views and bike shops galore mean there’s a route for every rider.
Blending the adventure of car-free riding with the ease of cruising on wide, well-maintained gravel roads, gravel biking is one of the fastest-growing segments of cycling. Unlike mountain biking, gravel biking doesn’t require tackling technical trails. That makes it accessible to a wider range of cyclists, including those using e-bikes or adaptive equipment. Plus, with its ability to connect endless miles of forest roads, you can tailor rides to match your fitness level and schedule.
Forested paths, mild year-round weather and quiet scenic roads make the Oregon Coast an ideal destination for gravel biking. Whether you’re seeking an easygoing adventure or a more challenging ride, here are four standout routes that seamlessly fit into winter’s shorter daylight hours.
See Old-Growth Trees and Forest Creeks on These Easy Rides
If you’re looking for a relaxed introduction to gravel biking, the Bee Line route south of Florence is a perfect choice. This 23-mile lollipop loop begins at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park and weaves through the Siuslaw National Forest, offering a peaceful mix of gravel and pavement with minimal elevation gain (2,200 feet). Riders will pedal beneath towering old-growth forests on quiet backroads with a nice mix of lakes, rural farmland and coastal forest throughout.
With its gentle hills, mostly paved surfaces and shorter distance, Bee Line is especially friendly for beginners, adaptive cyclists or anyone seeking a leisurely ride. Nearby Bike Newport is a handy spot for rentals, gear and advice from the local cycling community.
Another fun lollipop loop, Drift Creek Falls ups the ante by mixing in a short hiking segment at its apex. The route begins in the community of Taft, just south of Lincoln City, near the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge, protecting over 100 acres of tidal marshes.
The 30-mile ride is mostly pavement but does include 3,000 feet of elevation gain over the duration. The route winds up through moss-draped trees and alongside creeks, culminating in a stop at the Drift Creek Falls Trailhead. No bikes are allowed on the trail to the falls, so you will need to disembark and hike the roughly 1.5 miles to the impressive 80-foot Drift Creek Falls. En route you’ll walk over an adrenaline-inducing, 240-foot suspension bridge that puts you high in the trees with a view of the falls. After returning to your bike, a quick, mostly downhill of mixed gravel and pavement takes you back to the start.
Enjoy Mountain Views and Lighthouses on These Moderate Routes
If you’re craving a bit more of a challenge, head to the Crosscut route near Port Orford — named in honor of the rich timber tradition of the area, as well as for the route’s elevation profile, which mirrors that of its namesake saw blade. The 39-mile route combines gravel and paved roads with 3,500 feet of elevation gain, winding through the forests of the Oregon Coast Range. Highlights of the route include sweeping vistas of both the coastline and the Tahkenitch and Siltcoos lakes, the latter of which is the largest along the Oregon Coast. Before you ride, stop by Bigfoot Bike Shop in Bandon to fuel up, get insider tips and take care of any rental needs.
Any roundup of Oregon Coast cycling wouldn’t be complete without a stop at a lighthouse. Cape Meares, dubbed a “5 Star Route” (i.e., scenic) by the gravel experts at Dirty Freehub, starts and ends near the historic lighthouse of the same name. Though the shortest on the Oregon Coast, the Cape Meares Lighthouse has one of the richest histories — both in its construction and its longevity (originally built on January 1, 1890).
The out-and-back route is only 16 miles long but packs a punch with its ocean scenery, historical intrigue and unique flora. Two highlights are the state’s largest spruce, measured at 144 feet tall (which includes a broken top) and over 48 feet in circumference, as well as the massive Sitka spruce dubbed the “Octopus Tree” for its unique, inverted octopus-like shape. Along the route, riders will also catch glimpses of the infamous Bayocean resort community, once on pace to be the West Coast’s equivalent to Atlantic City before it gradually fell into the ocean. This is a ride to take your time with and soak in the environment around you. For any pre-ride needs, swing by A’s Bike Shop in Seaside.
Plan Your Winter Gravel-Biking Adventure
Gravel biking on the Oregon Coast isn’t just about the ride — it’s a chance to connect with the land and enjoy the unique charm of the region.
Even in winter the Oregon Coast scenery is striking, with misty mornings, dramatic skies and variable weather to set the mood. When geared up appropriately, winter riding along the Coast can be some of the best.
To make the most of your trip, check local weather conditions, pack warm layers, plenty of water and snacks, and be aware of winter’s shorter days. Leverage the local shops for gear rentals, maintenance and advice, and embrace the pace of a winter’s ride along the Oregon Coast.
For more inspiration, pick up a copy of the Oregon Coast Gravel Guide, produced by nonprofit Dirty Freehub. You can purchase it online or at one of your favorite coastal retailers.
– By Lucas Alberg
All photos courtesy of Dirty Freehub