February 10: Sun, Sand, and Salmon
What a glorious day in the sun! Today’s loop to the Oregon Coast and back felt like a summertime ride as seagulls swooped overhead, ducks and geese swam and foraged in the wetlands, and the bright blue Pacific Ocean waves crashed against the shoreline’s rocky cliffs, sending foamy white sprays of water shooting into the air.
Although the temperature outside was 39 degrees, I left West Linn in great spirits this morning under vivid blue skies with not a rain cloud in sight. Incredulous to have such good fortune on my day off, I headed west on highway 18 through the Hb Van Duzer Forest State Scenic Corridor, breathing in the crisp mountain air and barreling up and over the foothills between tall evergreen trees.
Turning south at Lincoln City, I gasped in wonder at the sight of the mighty Pacific. Although I have been blessed to visit the Oregon coast many times in my life, I never cease to be amazed at the vast stretches of dazzling blue undulating water, dark rocky cliffs, crashing waves, and white sprays of mist framed by the tall green Douglas Firs standing at attention on the shore.
Continuing on highway 101, I passed over the massive Siletz Bay Bridge and pulled over to take a picture of ducks swimming in the shallow wetland, the placid blue rippling water standing in stark contrast to the tan, brown, and orange islands of marshy grass. Geese foraged for food and seagulls swooped above me as I leaned back and took in more of the sun.
As I drove through Depot Bay, throngs of tourists lined the shoreline, taking in the views of waves crashing against the rocks. Veering off on Otter Crest Loop shortly afterwards, the road narrowed and became one lane only as it hugged the coastline, providing spectacular views from above of the bays down below.
Turning off in Yachats at Luna’s Fish House, I was overjoyed to learn that they had fresh salmon on the menu. I ordered a house salad with generous chunks of grilled fish atop a bed of greens, mandarin oranges, tomatoes, cucumber, dried cranberries, and walnuts and savored every bite. I feel so fortunate to have been treated to such a wonderful day on the bike.
