The best traffic-free bike rides in Ecola State Park
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176
riders
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rides
No traffic road cycling routes in Ecola State Park traverse a diverse coastal landscape, characterized by nine miles of coastline featuring old-growth forests, dramatic ocean vistas, and rugged cliffs. The main Ecola Park Road is paved, winding through scenic forests to key viewpoints and offering impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. The region's terrain includes both coastal roads and routes that venture inland, providing varied elevation changes.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Ecola State Park
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Youngs River Road loop from Seaside, a 50.3 miles (80.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 27 minutes to complete. This route explores the rural roads along the Youngs River, offering a mix of flat sections and gentle climbs.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Lewis and Clark Road loop from Gearhart, a moderate 21.9 miles (35.3 km) path. This route guides cyclists through historical areas and offers views of the surrounding coastal plain.
- Local road cyclists also love the Youngs River Falls – Lewis and Clark Road loop from Gearhart, a 45.2 miles (72.8 km) trail leading through varied landscapes including river valleys and rural roads, often completed in about 3 hours 9 minutes.
- Road cycling in Ecola State Park is defined by Pacific Ocean views, old-growth forests, and coastal roads. The network offers options for different ability levels, primarily featuring moderate routes.
- The routes in Ecola State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. More than 170 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ecola State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
7
riders
80.9km
03:28
650m
650m
Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure with the Youngs River Road loop from Seaside. This route takes you through the lush Pacific Northwest, offering a peaceful escape with views of Saddle Mountain and the soothing Youngs River. You will cycle past charming rural scenes, including old hay silos and Christmas tree farms, before reaching the impressive 54-foot Youngs River Falls. Covering 50.3 miles (80.9 km) with an elevation gain of 2130 feet (649 metres), this loop typically takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes to complete.
When planning your ride, remember that the route is predominantly paved, making it ideal for racebikes. While much of the journey is serene, be aware that some winding sections of the road may have narrow shoulders. It is important to exercise caution and share the road responsibly with car traffic, especially in these areas. Always check local conditions before you head out.
This loop offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty surrounding Seaside, venturing into areas rich with wildlife like cows, deer, and various birds. The trail's path through Lewis and Clark National Historical Park provides a scenic backdrop, blending natural wonders with glimpses of rural life. It's a great way to experience the region's diverse landscape and historical significance on two wheels.
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13
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35.3km
01:36
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Ecola State Park
Tips from the Community
This road is a fantastic route through beautiful valleys and untouched and heavily forested areas, all part of the natural beauty that makes up the Pacific Northwest. Far less busy than the coastal route, you'll have a much more peaceful ride here, with several places along the way to stop and enjoy the scenery. However, due to the narrowness of the shoulder, when traveling through the winding stretches of road, you'll need to be aware when you encounter car traffic.
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Youngs River Road is a must ride for a peaceful escape with breathtaking views of Saddle Mountain, lush forests, and the soothing sounds of the Youngs River along the way. As you journey down this road, you'll pass by charming houses, old hay silos, and a Christmas tree farm that adds to the nostalgic charm of the area. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife, including cows, deer, horses, and a variety of birds.
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Youngs River Falls is an incredibly popular destination during the summer months for its refreshing waters and picturesque scenery. The waterfall, surrounded by lush forest, stands at an impressive height of 54 feet, with the warm waters of the Youngs River cascading down into a pool below that reaches a depth of between five and seven feet. The beautiful falls can be easily viewed from the parking lot, or you can take the short 0.25-mile trail leading to the waterfall's base for the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.
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This road is a fantastic route through beautiful valleys and untouched and heavily forested areas, all part of the natural beauty that makes up the Pacific Northwest. Far less busy than the coastal route, you'll have a much more peaceful ride here, with several places along the way to stop and enjoy the scenery. However, due to the narrowness of the shoulder, when traveling through the winding stretches of road, you'll need to be aware when you encounter car traffic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Ecola State Park?
There are 3 moderate no traffic road cycling routes available in the Ecola State Park area, offering diverse experiences for road cyclists looking to avoid heavy vehicle traffic.
What is the typical difficulty level for road cycling routes in Ecola State Park?
All the no traffic road cycling routes in this guide are rated as moderate. They offer a good balance of challenge and scenic enjoyment, suitable for cyclists with some experience.
Are there any loop options for no traffic road cycling in the Ecola State Park area?
Yes, several routes offer loop options. For example, the Youngs River Road loop from Seaside provides a substantial 80 km ride, while the Lewis and Clark Road loop from Gearhart is a shorter 35 km option.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no traffic road cycling routes?
The routes in the Ecola State Park area traverse a mix of landscapes, including scenic old-growth forests with Sitka spruce and western hemlock, and offer glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. While Ecola Park Road itself is very scenic, the routes in this guide explore the broader region's quiet roads.
What are some notable viewpoints or attractions I might see near these routes?
While the routes themselves focus on less-trafficked roads, the Ecola State Park region is rich with natural beauty. You can find stunning coastal views, iconic sea stacks, and the distant Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Nearby attractions include Indian Beach, known for surfing and tidepooling, and the historic Tillamook Head WWII radar site.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ecola State Park?
The Oregon Coast, including Ecola State Park, offers enjoyable cycling during spring and fall when the weather is often milder and crowds are thinner. Summer can be pleasant but also busier. Winter cycling is possible but be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.
Are there routes that combine forest scenery with potential ocean views?
Yes, the broader Ecola State Park region offers routes that blend lush forest sections with opportunities for ocean vistas. The main Ecola Park Road, though not part of the specific routes listed here, is renowned for its journey through old-growth forest to viewpoints overlooking the Pacific.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in the Ecola State Park area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the less-trafficked roads and the beautiful natural surroundings, making for a peaceful cycling experience.
Are there any routes that pass by waterfalls?
One of the routes, the Youngs River Falls – Lewis and Clark Road loop from Gearhart, is named after Youngs River Falls, indicating it passes near this natural feature, offering a scenic highlight during your ride.
What are the elevation gains like on these no traffic road cycling routes?
The routes feature moderate elevation gains. For instance, the Youngs River Road loop from Seaside has an elevation gain of approximately 649 meters, providing a good workout without overly strenuous climbs.
Is Ecola State Park suitable for family-friendly road cycling?
While the routes in this guide are rated moderate, the broader Ecola State Park area and nearby Cannon Beach offer easier, mostly paved cycling experiences that might be more suitable for families, such as the Haystack Rock & Elk Creek Road loop. Always check route details for specific suitability.
Where can I find information about parking or public transport access for these routes?
For specific parking information, it's best to check the starting points of individual routes on komoot. Ecola State Park itself has parking areas, but for broader regional access and public transport options, consulting local tourism resources or the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov) is recommended.
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