Traffic on the coast over 4th of July weekend (Portland: campers, beach)

[heavens54]

We are spending the 4th in Portland at the Riverfront blues festival. We are then going to Covallis. If we drive down the 101 to Newport and then across to Corvallis on Thursday the 5th, late morning, do you think the traffic will be horrendous on that day? Or on Friday?

We would really like to see the coast while we are there, but don't want to get stuck anywhere in bad traffic...would appreciate any advice on this matter...

Thanks in advance.

[Mormor]

Hi HEAVENS54,
The road from Corvallis to 101 is windy and one lane each way. Depending on how many people are heading to the beach on that route, you may or may not run into very slow traffic, especially with campers, etc. Going to Newport you might run into lots of traffic, as the Aquarium and waterfront are there and lots of people will probably go to spend the weekend to see those things. I not quite sure how you are getting to 101, but during the 4th weekend, there will be lots of traffic. I don't think Newport is the best place to see the beach. Try Rockaway. Lots of accesses, and a very small town. And it has a great beach that is easily accessible to the public.

[seashelly]

Drive across the corridor REALLY early in the morning but keep your eyes out also for deer/elk and falling rocks.