March 22: Gorge-ous Water Views All Around

When I woke up this morning to the sound of rain hitting my skylight, I was pretty sure today’s adventure would end with water sloshing in my boots and dripping wet socks. However, I managed to hit a lull in the precipitation, traveling through country backroads and then across a swelling river on a small ferry boat before making my way back home.

Today’s route was designed with river views in mind. Making my way across the Oregon City Arch Bridge, I first stopped at the Willamette Falls overlook to take in the thundering sheets of water cascading down rocky ledges and crashing onto the dark jagged boulders below. Frothy white water bursting up from below provided a stunning sight through the mist and falling rain around me.

Winding my way west along the shores of the Willamette River, I gazed out at the vast expanse of placid still silver waters beyond the arched, moss-covered stone walls lining its banks. I navigated my bike through pockets of deep water in the road, glad to see that the skies were beginning to clear.

Heading north on Territorial Road I made my way to the Canby Ferry loading area on the edge of the swelling Willamette. Although quite small with a maximum capacity of six cars, this quaint cable ferry provides a fun, alternative river crossing for motorists heading into Wilsonville. The ride across was quite short but delightful nonetheless, adding a sense of adventure to my day.

Heading up SW Mountain Road and then west on Advance Road, I twisted my way through evergreen trees, up long steep hills, and past orchards and farms. Green stalks in fields were pushing their way through the muddy dirt with large, closed buds waiting to unfurl until the advent of warmer spring weather.

Continuing on Wilsonville Road along the Willamette River, I headed into Newberg, enjoying views of the water to my left and picturesque barns in all sizes, shapes, and colors, standing prominently in pastures and farmlands around me. Cherry trees sported pink and white blossoms, adding a cheerful splash of color in what was otherwise a relatively brown landscape. After reaching Newburg, I headed east back home along Stafford Road. Another great day on the bike!