We started out from Clatskanie OR in the rain. And cold. But the beautiful waterfalls and countryside were great diversions. Then we got onto State Road 30 – mostly 2 lanes of traffic whizzing by at 65 mph, for 55 miles into Portland, but at least with wide shoulders. We had our first tube puncture just after the halfway point, but an extra bike in the trailer meant we didn’t lose time repairing.
Portland is a mixed experience – very vibrant and modern but a significant drug and homelessness problem. It was obvious why Portland has received so many accolades as a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike paths making us feel very safe. The last 10 miles of the day on the Marine Drive path next to the Columbia River was a perfect finish to the day’s ride. Great food – last nights dinner was at Akadi – fabulous African fare in a very cool setting.
