PDX 50K

Run Pacifica

We're a small, simple running group with the mission of putting on fun and free running events with routes and locations not currently offered in the Northwest by other running clubs and race organizers.

Start Point

Brooklyn Park in SE Portland, ideally somewhere on uphill side on 10th Ave, but depends on the weather and the turnout. It's not a big park, you'll find us. MAX can take you within a few blocks to the 17th and Rhine stop. There's a convenience store, coffee shop, and bar (great whiskey menu) just across the street for your pre- and post-run needs.

The Course

You get a pretty even mix of roads, car-free paths, and dirt/gravel as you hit up all six quadrants of Portland. From the Brooklyn Park start point, head south towards Oaks Bottom and the Springwater Corridor; over the Sellwood Bridge and up the west side of the Willamette; through Slabtown and into Forest Park. You'll cover most of the length of Leif Eriksen Drive, which is pretty smooth and runnable gravel. Then descend on Ridge Trail to the St John's Bridge -- the roughest terrain of the day, but still quite mild overall. Google it if you're deciding between road and trail shoes. Back along Willamette Blvd and Vancouver Ave, onto the riverfront again, then wrapping up back in Brooklyn Park for some snacks and chats and usual post-run whatnots.

What To Bring

This is an unsupported run with no aid stations. Bring cash/cards to grab any snacks you need from markets along the way. The Forest Park stretch (approximately mile 10 to mile 21) is the longest portion without a chance to buy/refill, so plan accordingly. There are also no course markings. If you're from out of town, feel free to load up a GPX on your watch or phone. Small variances from the "official" route are no problem at all... if you make a loop that crosses both bridges and uses Leif Eriksen, you're probably doing fine. Just don't be a jerk and deliberately seek out shortcuts.