First let me say that there are not enough synonyms for the word spectacular to describe the Oregon Coast.  Today was another absolutely (insert your own synonym here because I've run out) day on the bike...bummer, it was overcast, but still (synonym) none-the-less.  Again, we had areas of fog that obscured most of the highly scenic areas, but we saw enough to make it interesting. 

Our morning started out with a sudden jolt...right out of the motel we started up.  The first punch was about a 4 mile ascent to the top of the cliffs overlooking the ocean...but what a reward.  In spite of the haze and fog, as soon as the views opened up it was hard to ride because of all the distractions of the beautiful views.  For days now we've been witnessing the spectacular handiwork of some supreme being...this just couldn't have happened.  All along the coastline rugged mountains stand majestically over the Pacific Coastline overlooking frothy waves as they splash against large rock formations that thrust themselves out of the the water.  Piles of weather hardened driftwood have been deposited all along quiet sandy beaches which made me wonder how far they had come before finding this final resting place.  Of all the portraits I've seen of scenes in America, I don't think I've ever seen one more beautiful than what we witnessed this morning.  All along this region there are historical towns like Port Orford, Klamath, Gold Beach, Brookings, and Crescent City.  But the coastline also has smaller more artsy and agricultural communities like Langlois, Aophir, Anesika Beach, Smith River, and Pistol River where the pace is much slower than what most of us are accustomed to. 

Now that I've had a little time to stop blithering about how beautiful the scenery was, I'll describe the rest of the day.  We experienced stark differences throughout the day in spite of the shortish mileage.  The morning climb on 101 was completely tree lined with the focus being on getting to the top.  If you wanted to see any of the sights, you had to take short side trips toward the coast to see them.  It wasn't long before 101 skirted the shoreline which gave us breathtaking views of the surf and the rugged coast.  By the afternoon, we left the coast for a trip a bit more inland through rich agricultural areas that definitely broke up the day.  We even rode through the Easter Lilly capital of the world...or at least they claim they are.  Finally, the last 3 miles were back on the coast line again with spectacular views of Castle Rock Game Preserve just off shore.  This preserve is 14 acres of gagged rock and sloping meadows which serves as home for many species of migratory sea and shore birds along with sea lions and elephant seals.  It's the largest seabird colonies on the west coast.  As I was standing gazing through my binoculars, I could hear the loud calls of the sea lions as they lounged along the shore...something you just don't see or hear in Alabama.  I think this has been one of the most enjoyable rides I've been associated with...nice weather, great people, and eye candy everywhere.

Our day was topped off with a rousing session of t-shirt swap where Barb emcees the festivities.  Everyone had a story to tell about their t-shirt...even the ones who just purchased one yesterday to trade tonight.  Everyone seemed to have a good time in spite of Bill M not understanding the rules.  Stealing was allowed and owners held on until the last shirt...lots of fun. 

Tomorrow we take a day off.  I think most of the riders are ready for a time off the bike, but I may go ride up the road since we only have one new rider to orientate tomorrow.  It might be tempting if the weather clears...just can't let the beauty go to waste.  Might be a nice chance to just go for a ride...we'll see.  What ever we do, it won't start early.  Tomorrow there won't be a journal entry...see you on Monday.  Have a nice weekend.