Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway

A Wild and Scenic river, lush cranberry bogs, towering basalt sea stacks and vast ocean views await riders on the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway.

Designated in 2015, this Scenic Bikeway is one of the most incredible ways to experience the rugged beauty of the scenic Oregon coastline and the lush inland forests! The 60-mile ride is anchored in the quaint fishing hamlet of Port Orford, the oldest town on the Oregon coast. Here you can count on a great cup of coffee, and you’ll find quiet, locally-owned hotels and eclectic art galleries.

You can complete the route in one day or take your time with several out-and-back rides. A perfect start point is the historic Battle Rock Park in Port Orford, where you’ll enjoy views of Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve, a protected habitat for marine mammals and nesting shorebirds.

A 17-mile stretch of the Bikeway travels through the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and along the Wild and Scenic Elk River, past pools teeming with native salmon and trout and a beautiful old-growth forest in the Grassy Knob Wilderness. Camping is available, allowing visitors to extend their time next to the crystal clear blue-green waters of this amazing river:

• Sunshine Bar Campground
• Butler Bar Campground

Visit the Elk River Fish Hatchery or cool off at one of many swimming holes.

A steady, gentle climb brings you to Cape Blanco State Park on the westernmost point of Oregon. At the tip of the cape stands Cape Blanco Lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the state, built in 1870.

Another out-and-back ride just a few easy miles from Port Orford leads to Paradise Point State Recreation Site, where you can pedal up to a sandy beach with sunset-worthy ocean views. If your legs are up for a very steep 1-mile hill challenge, a climb to Port Orford Heads State Park will reward you with history and scenery. Short trails lead to remnants of the town’s history as a Coast Guard lifeboat station. Inspiring panoramic views of the rugged coastline show how far you’ve come — on a clear day, you’ll see Paradise Point, Cape Blanco and the Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve.

At a Glance