Astoria: The Starting Point in Long-Distance Cycling

Abstract:In 1976, over 4,000 cyclists took part in Bikecentennial ’76, a transcontinental bicycle ride organized to occur during America’s bicentennial celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Organizers selected the coast-to-coast route to follow U.S. Highway 30 between Astoria, Oregon, and Yorktown, Virginia. After the 1976 event ended, the Bikecentennial organization continued operation, developing more routes and maps for bicycle touring. Astoria continued to be an important starting point for transcontinental rides and a popular beginning for cyclists traveling the coast of Oregon and California. This article explores the early years of bicycling in Astoria. It overviews the development of paths, roads, and trans-coastal and coastal highways from Astoria, leading to its recognition as one of the country’s favored starting places for long-distance cycling.