This uniquely gratifying ride alternates long, steep climbs and white-knuckle descents with shady, stream-side roads that are the essense of quiet rural Oregon. Lobster Valley, in the Century Loop option, is a hidden gem but is so remote that riders seldom use it. Alsea Scenic Byway, on every riders route, has what riders call perfection in the form of challenge plus relaxation. With the support of rest stop snacks, SAG drivers, and lunch awaiting you at the finish, you can relax and enjoy the best rides in Oregon.

 

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Option 1: The 50 mile loop skirts the west edge of the Willamette Valley coast range with 4000 foot elevation gain and loss showcasing a fantastic variety of scenery from pastures, to vineyards, to shady primeval forests along beautiful stream-side route over Alsea Scenic Byway.

Option 2: The 100 mile figure-eight loop incorporates all of the half-century ride plus a loop through Lobster Valley with another significant elevation gain and loss - just the challenge that cyclists are looking for when supported with regular rest stops, friendly locals, marked routes, and a delicious fresh lunch at the end.

Riders can make important choices at two points along the route. All riders will arrive at Rest stop 2 at the intersection of the Alsea/Deadwood Highway and Alsea Scenic Byway, where you can choose the half-century route by returning to Alpine over the challenging Alsea Scenic Byway route or choose the century route by continuing on to Lobster Valley. Riders who choose the century loop should reach Rest stop 2 before 11:00 am to assure plenty of time for completing the route while support is available.

For those who choose the century route, you will reach a rest stop at the intersection of Lobster Valley Rd. and Five Rivers Rd. just before the intersection with Hwy 34. There, you can choose to turn right onto Hwy 34 and continue east for the figure-eight, or if you would rather avoid this winding state highway leg, you can return to Rest stop 2 the way you came by retracing your route through Lobster Valley and then return to Alpine over the Alsea Scenic Byway. Rest stop staff will answer all your questions when you get there, and SAG drivers will be on the routes to ensure that you have plenty of support.