Originally Posted by
B. Carfree
This is absolutely not an answer to your question. However, since I live in Eugene and we have a great route to the coast that is rarely used and a so-so route that is quite popular, I thought I should chime in to recommend the great route. Don't go to Florence from Eugene. Instead, go directly to Reedsport. Do not pass Go, but do pass Crow. See
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/31073976 Don't be put off by the 90 mile distance; all the hills are early and there are numerous places to call it a day along the Smith River. It's easier to follow than the map would indicate, just follow the pavement (chipseal, actually). The only potentially troublesome turn has a huge BLM map at the intersection. No services or cell reception between Eugene and around mile 80, so bring what you need. I have ridden loops out there and not seen a car for over 100 miles.
Actually, this looks like great advice. Are there any good places to set up camp on this route within 20 miles of the city? One of the problems I'm working on is camping the day I arrive in Eugene. But that's really hard to do without a ridiculous overnight day 1 rando mission, as I'll be arriving late afternoon at the earliest.