Because the heavy motorized traffic tends to be even heavier in the summer, we recommend that you ride this route in the spring or autumn. If riding in summer is your only option, be advised that motorized traffic often increases after 10:00 a.m. You'll encounter climbs several miles in length as the route crosses two major headlands between Crescent City and McKinleyville. This is redwood country, so take some extra time to enjoy the scenery in the state and national parks along the route. At Leggett you'll leave US 101 and return to the coast via SR 1, but not before climbing abruptly to 2,000 feet above sea level. From either direction this roads is a steep, twisting climb and descent on a narrow roadway that is hemmed in by heavy forest cover. From Westport to Bodega Bay SR 1 hugs the coastline, passing through small towns that cater to tourists. In Marin County, the traffic increases on the route from Valley Ford to Marshall, especially on weekends after 11 a.m. Between Fairfax and the Golden Gate Bridge you'll be riding in an urban environment. The route follows a signed bike route along residential streets and bike paths wherever possible. ABOUT ADVENTURE CYCLING MAPS Adventure Cycling maps are created by cyclists, for cyclists, and they are some of the best available for those in search of discovery and adventure in North America. The maps reflect the association's research as well as suggestions from thousands of cyclists who have explored the Adventure Cycling Route Network. Adventure Cycling develops the best cross-country, loop, coastal, and inland cycling routes available, with turn-by-turn directions, detailed navigational instructions for the tricky sections, and elevation profiles in the high country. The maps are waterproof and designed to fit in a handlebar-bag window or jersey pocket. The maps provide information specifically for cyclists: the location of bike shops, sources for food and water, and listings of overnight accommodations including camping facilities, small hotels, and cyclists-only lodging. Missoula, Montana, based Adventure Cycling Association is a nonprofit organization. It's mission is to inspire and empower people to travel by bicycle. Established in 1973 as Bikecentennial, it is the premier bicycle-travel organization in North America with more than 35 years of experience and 47,000 members. The Adventure Cycling Route Network features rural and low-traffic bicycling routes through some of the most scenic and historically significant terrain in North America. The organization now has a 42,180-mile network of routes available on its more than 90 maps. Learn more about the organization by visiting their website: www.adventurecycling.org .