Thumbs up at Ships Out
What an amazing day! You know you’ve been on a great ride when you come back totally rejuvenated and physically and emotionally on top of the world. Today’s adventure included just the right number of curves and opportunities to let out the throttle, not to mention outstanding food, great company, and wonderful views.
Leo Guzman Fernandez led us north to highway 30 and Scappoose then on backroads to Vernonia. From there we took highway 47 through Mist and Clatskanie. I have to say this stretch of road took my breath away. There were curves of every size and shape – long sweeping curves, tight curves, and curves that rose or dropped away as you rounded them. The views to the East were amazing, the temperature was mild, and there was almost no traffic. In several cases the cars that were there pulled over so Leo and I could pass and continue at our own pace. I felt like I had been transported to another part of the planet and was reminded so much of why I love my cross-country trips.
From Clatskanie we headed west on highway 30 to Astoria where we were treated to outstanding fish and chips at Ship Out, a food cart just south of the city center. The fish was incredibly fresh, moist, and flavorful and covered with just the right amount of crispy, buttery, flaky breading. We also ordered homemade clam chowder that was equally delightful – thick and creamy and flavored just right.
After lunch we traveled south on highway 101 enjoying many beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean with the sun on our backs. At Hebo we turned east on highway 22 and then highway 18 towards Amity. This stretch of road was also full of great curves and included wonderful river views. We passed Amity and finished our loop on Wilsonville Road. I had not ridden that section of the road in years and had forgotten how delightful it was with many tree canopies, picturesque country homes, and almost no traffic.
When we arrived at my home Leo was kind enough to help me figure out how to attach my camping gear to the bike for this summer’s adventure. It’s exciting to be that much closer to leaving on my trip.
