The best cycling routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
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96
riders
6
rides
Touring cycling in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge features routes through ancient old-growth forests and along dramatic sea cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The terrain includes significant elevation changes and offers expansive ocean views. This coastal region is characterized by its primeval and ecologically rich environment, providing a diverse backdrop for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
- The most popular touring cycling route is Oceanside Beach – Netarts Bay Drive loop from Oceanside Beach State…
Last updated: August 7, 2026
5
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
61
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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13
riders
60.4km
03:55
750m
750m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
32.6km
02:41
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
11
riders
36.3km
02:20
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
Tips from the Community
Sitka Sedge State Natural Area is a beautiful 357-acre coastal preserve where tidal marshes, forested dunes, and saltwater estuaries meet. Several trails wind through wetlands and along the Sand Lake Estuary, and it is an excellent spot for birdwatching and quiet beach access away from some of the other busier locations.
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If you're a cheese lover, this is a must stop! This famous creamery and visitor center attracts over 1.3 million visitors each year. The factory produces over 170,000 pounds of cheese daily, with an impressive aging warehouse for 50 million pounds of cheese. You can take a self-guided tour to watch the cheesemaking, packaging, and ice cream production from a viewing area. While you're here, you can enjoy cheese and ice cream flights to sample a variety of delicious items, have a craft beer and a meal at the café, and browse the gift shop for unique cheese items. Admission is free, and if you're not in a hurry, it's easy to spend a few hours here.
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Netarts Bay Drive showcases stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, offering dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and crashing waves. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, seabirds, seals, and even the occasional otter frolicking along the coast.
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The Nehalem River is a breathtaking waterway that boasts diverse wildlife, both on land and in the water, from majestic elk and black-tailed deer to playful river otters and busy beavers. Below the surface, the river is teeming with salmon and other fish. As you ride along, you might spot a northern spotted owl, an osprey, or even a golden eagle in the sky. In 2019, the river was designated a “State Scenic Waterway” to protect its corridor, wildlife, and stunning scenery.
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Rockaway Beach State Park offers more than just sun-kissed shores and crashing waves. The park's trails wind through forests, meadows, and along the stunning Oregon coast, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. You'll also see plenty of wildlife along the way, such as deer, elk, and seabirds.
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Symons State Scenic Viewpoint is the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking view of the Oregon coastline. From here, you can take in the stunning beauty of Oceanside, Maxwell Point, and the sandy shores below. The view to the south is equally impressive, with a sweeping panorama as far as the eye can see. If you look out to the north, you'll also catch a glimpse of Cape Lookout as it reaches far out into the ocean.
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Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is famous for its beautiful lighthouse, breathtaking ocean views, and a Sitka spruce tree that resembles an octopus. From the viewpoints in the park, there are opportunities to catch a glimpse of migrating gray whales, sea lions, dolphins, and porpoises. The steep bluffs and offshore rocks are home to thousands of seabirds, and in the spring, you may be lucky enough to see peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs.
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The Cape is an incredible natural wonder that is easily accessible by a short hike from the parking lot. The beautiful area surrounding the Cape has now been made into a state park, covering 2000 acres, and it even has a popular campground. The rugged rock formation juts out over a mile and a half into the majestic Pacific Ocean, where you can witness the sheer cliffs that plunge 400 feet into the sea.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
There are currently 6 touring cycling routes available in the Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge area on komoot, offering a variety of distances and elevation gains.
What is the typical difficulty level for touring cycling routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
The touring cycling routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge are generally considered difficult. They often feature significant elevation changes and can include steep grades, catering to cyclists looking for a challenging experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in this region?
You can expect a mix of terrain. Most routes consist of well-paved surfaces, but some may include unpaved sections and steep grades. The routes often traverse dramatic coastal landscapes and old-growth forests, providing varied scenery.
Are there any family-friendly or beginner touring cycling routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
Given the significant elevation changes and challenging nature of the routes, most touring cycling options in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge are not typically recommended for beginners or young families. They are generally suited for more experienced cyclists.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The routes offer stunning views of ancient old-growth forests, dramatic sea cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean. You can also visit the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, the unique Octopus Tree, and the impressive Big Spruce. Accessible viewing decks provide opportunities to spot seabirds, seals, sea lions, dolphins, and even migrating gray whales.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
The refuge is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. You might spot thousands of nesting seabirds on the cliffs, as well as peregrine falcons. Marine life such as seals, sea lions, dolphins, and porpoises are also common, especially from coastal viewpoints.
Are there any loop touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Oceanside Beach – Netarts Bay Drive loop, the Sitka Sedge State Natural Area – Netarts Bay Drive loop, and the Cape Meares Loop.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling trails in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
Parking is available at various trailheads and starting points for the routes. For example, the Oceanside Beach – Netarts Bay Drive loop starts from Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site, which has parking facilities. The Oceanside Beach – Abandoned Three Cape Road loop begins near Lighthouse Quarry.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal landscapes, the serene old-growth forests, and the opportunities for wildlife viewing, highlighting the unique natural beauty of the region.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Cape Meares?
While the Oregon Coast offers beauty year-round, the spring and fall months often provide more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be popular but may also bring more coastal fog. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Are there any resources for more information about trails in the Cape Meares area?
For additional information on trails and the heritage of the Cape Meares area, you can consult the Tillamook Bay Heritage Route website.
Most popular routes in Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
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