Thousands Cross Sellwood Bridge During Portland Bridge Pedal

A Signature Portland Summer Ride

On Sunday, August 10, more than 10,000 bicyclists took part in the annual Portland Bridge Pedal, one of the city’s most popular community rides. Unlike the Portland Marathon coming up on October 5—which will close several Inner Southeast streets—this year’s Bridge Pedal left traffic largely unaffected, allowing both cyclists and drivers to enjoy their Sunday morning routines.

The event gave riders of all ages and abilities the chance to pedal across Portland’s iconic bridges, including the Sellwood Bridge, while soaking up skyline and river views that are rarely experienced at a leisurely pace.

The Route and Experience

Cyclists began downtown before crossing the Morrison Bridge. From there, those on the “Main Ride” and the “Fremont Express” routes headed south along the Eastbank Esplanade, continuing onto the Springwater Corridor Trail.

As riders passed Oaks Amusement Park, the route curved beneath the Sellwood Bridge and looped around onto Southeast Umatilla Street. From there, participants rode two blocks north along 6th Avenue before making their way westward across the eastbound sidewalk and bike lanes of the recently rebuilt Sellwood Bridge.

Crossing the span offered a highlight of the morning—panoramic views of the Willamette River and downtown Portland framed by blue skies. Smiling, waving, and calling out to supporters, riders embraced the festive spirit that has long defined the Bridge Pedal.

A Community on Wheels

The Bridge Pedal is more than a ride—it’s a celebration of Portland’s cycling culture. Families, casual riders, and seasoned cyclists all share the road, creating an atmosphere that blends athleticism with community connection.

While previous years featured a rest stop near the Sellwood Bridge, this year’s ride kept cyclists moving. Even without the pause, spirits remained high. Riders simply pedaled on, energized by the camaraderie and the unique chance to traverse city bridges normally dominated by vehicles.

Minimal Disruption, Maximum Fun

One reason the Bridge Pedal continues to draw strong participation is its design: while showcasing Portland’s infrastructure and natural beauty, it avoids the significant traffic impacts that often accompany large-scale events. This year was no exception, as organizers carefully mapped routes that skirted neighborhoods without major closures.

For Southeast residents, the sight of thousands of riders streaming past offered a morning spectacle without inconvenience—a balance that continues to make the event popular with both participants and the community at large.

Looking Ahead

As Portland gears up for fall events like the marathon, the Bridge Pedal remains a summer highlight that reflects the city’s identity as a bike-friendly hub. For the thousands who pedaled across the Sellwood Bridge on Sunday, it was more than a workout—it was a joyful reminder of how cycling connects people to their city and to each other.