How to Walk St Johns Bridge Portland

St. Johns Bridge in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a transportation link—it is an architectural marvel, a historical landmark, and a gateway to some of the city’s most scenic walking paths. Spanning the Willamette River between the St. Johns and North Portland neighborhoods, this 1931 steel suspension bridge offers pedestrians a unique vantage point of the river, surrounding forests, and the city skyline. Walking across St. Johns Bridge is not merely a commute; it’s an immersive experience that blends engineering history, natural beauty, and urban tranquility. For locals and visitors alike, learning how to walk St. Johns Bridge Portland is essential to appreciating the city’s soul beyond its bustling streets and coffee shops.

Unlike many urban bridges that restrict pedestrian access or offer narrow, unsafe pathways, St. Johns Bridge features a dedicated, well-maintained pedestrian walkway on its east side, designed with safety, comfort, and views in mind. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast seeking golden-hour shots of the bridge’s Gothic towers, a fitness walker looking for a scenic route, or a history buff drawn to its Art Deco and Gothic Revival design, this walk delivers. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to walk St. Johns Bridge Portland—covering access points, safety tips, seasonal considerations, and the cultural context that makes this journey unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Starting Point

The first step in walking St. Johns Bridge is selecting your starting location. There are two primary access points: the St. Johns side (west) and the North Portland side (east). Each offers a different experience and set of amenities.

On the St. Johns side, the pedestrian entrance is located at the intersection of NW St. Johns Avenue and NW Bridge Street. Look for a clearly marked concrete ramp leading up to the bridge walkway, just past the historic St. Johns Post Office and near the small park with benches and native plantings. This side is ideal if you’re coming from the St. Johns neighborhood, the St. Johns Train Station, or the nearby shops and restaurants along NW St. Johns Avenue.

On the North Portland side, the entrance is found at the end of NE Knott Street, just north of the intersection with NE Fremont Street. A wide, gently sloping ramp leads up to the walkway, passing under the bridge’s eastern approach. This side connects to the Willamette River Greenway and is ideal if you’re arriving via the Springwater Corridor Trail or coming from the Columbia River waterfront.

Both entrances are ADA-compliant and feature tactile paving for visually impaired pedestrians. Choose your starting point based on your destination, available parking, or desired route. Walking from St. Johns to North Portland provides a gradual ascent with a rewarding downhill return, while the reverse offers a more challenging climb with panoramic views opening up as you progress.

2. Prepare for the Walk

Before ascending the bridge, ensure you’re equipped for the journey. The walk is approximately 0.75 miles (1.2 kilometers) one way, with a moderate incline on both ends. While not strenuous, it’s longer than many urban sidewalks, so proper preparation enhances comfort and safety.

Wear supportive, closed-toe footwear. The bridge surface is asphalt with a textured finish for traction, but it can become slippery when wet. Avoid sandals or high heels. Dress in layers—Portland’s weather is famously changeable. Even on sunny days, wind speeds increase significantly on the bridge, making it feel several degrees cooler than ground level.

Bring water, especially during summer months. There are no vending machines or restrooms on the bridge itself, so hydrate before you begin. If you plan to photograph the bridge or river, bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom lens. The bridge’s towers, cables, and river vistas are best captured with a telephoto lens from the mid-span viewing areas.

Consider bringing a small backpack with essentials: sunscreen, a hat, a light rain jacket, and a portable charger. Cell service is generally strong along the entire route, but signal strength may dip slightly near the center due to the bridge’s steel structure.

3. Ascend the Bridge

Once at the entrance ramp, follow the clearly marked pedestrian path. The ramp is wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side and is separated from vehicular traffic by a steel railing and a low concrete barrier. The incline is gradual—about a 5% grade—making it accessible for most fitness levels.

As you climb, notice the architectural details: the massive steel trusses, the riveted joints, and the intricate latticework that supports the deck. These elements are not just structural—they are artistic expressions of early 20th-century bridge engineering. The bridge was designed by engineer Ralph Modjeski and constructed by the Portland Bridge Company, with input from local architects to ensure aesthetic harmony with the surrounding landscape.

Take your time. Pause at the first viewing platform, located about 200 feet from the base. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of the Willamette River flowing beneath you and the dense canopy of trees lining the riverbanks. Look for the distinctive twin towers—each standing 375 feet tall—rising above you like cathedral spires. Their Gothic arches were inspired by medieval European cathedrals, making St. Johns Bridge one of the few suspension bridges in the U.S. with such design elements.

4. Cross the Main Span

As you continue, the path levels out over the main span—the longest section of the bridge, stretching 1,000 feet between the two towers. This is the heart of the walk. The railing here is slightly lower than on the approaches, offering unobstructed views of the river below. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Sellwood Bridge in the south and the Interstate 5 bridge to the north.

Watch for the steel cables that suspend the deck. Each main cable is composed of over 15,000 individual wires, twisted together to form a single strand nearly 18 inches in diameter. These cables were manufactured in Pittsburgh and shipped by rail to Portland in the 1930s—a remarkable feat of logistics at the time.

As you walk, notice the subtle vibrations in the deck underfoot. This is normal and caused by wind and passing vehicles. The bridge is designed to flex slightly, which is part of what makes it so resilient. Don’t be alarmed—it’s a testament to its engineering, not a safety issue.

Take photos here. The mid-span is the most photographed location on the bridge. The best light for photography is during the golden hour—approximately one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset. The warm light casts long shadows across the steel, highlighting the texture of the rivets and cables. In winter, you may catch frost on the cables at dawn; in summer, the river shimmers with reflections of the sky.

5. Descend on the Other Side

After crossing the main span, the path begins a gentle descent toward the North Portland side. The incline is slightly steeper than the ascent but still manageable. As you descend, the trees on the riverbank grow taller, creating a tunnel-like effect that shields you from the wind.

Look for interpretive signs along the path that detail the bridge’s history. One panel explains how the bridge was built during the Great Depression, providing jobs to over 1,000 local workers. Another highlights the role of the bridge in connecting Portland’s north and south sides before the construction of I-5.

At the bottom of the ramp, you’ll reach the pedestrian exit on NE Knott Street. Here, the path connects to the Willamette River Greenway, a 14-mile paved trail that runs from the Columbia River to the Clackamas River. If you’re continuing your journey, this is an excellent opportunity to extend your walk or bike ride along the river.

6. Return Options

You have several options for returning to your starting point:

• Walk back – The full round trip is 1.5 miles, taking about 30–40 minutes at a leisurely pace. This is ideal if you’re in good physical condition and want to experience the bridge from both directions.
• Take public transit – The TriMet bus line 12 (St. Johns – Downtown) stops at NE Knott Street and NW Bridge Street. Buses run every 15–20 minutes during peak hours.
• Use a bike share – Portland’s Biketown program has stations near both ends of the bridge. You can ride one way and return the bike at the other end.
• Arrange a pickup – If you’re with a group, consider having one person drive to the opposite end and wait for you to finish the walk.

Walking back provides a different perspective—the river looks different from the opposite direction, and the light changes as the day progresses. Many walkers find the return trip more relaxing, as they’ve already experienced the bridge’s full grandeur.

Best Practices

Timing Your Walk

Timing is critical to maximizing your experience. Early mornings (6–8 a.m.) are ideal for solitude, soft light, and cooler temperatures. This is also when local birdwatchers gather near the riverbanks to spot great blue herons, ospreys, and kingfishers. Midday (11 a.m.–2 p.m.) offers the brightest light for photography but also the most foot traffic and vehicle noise. Evenings (5–7 p.m.) are popular with joggers and couples, and the sunset behind the bridge’s towers creates a dramatic silhouette.

Weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you prefer a peaceful walk, avoid Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, when local families and tourists are most active. For photographers, the quietest time is Tuesday through Thursday between 7–9 a.m.

Weather Considerations

Portland’s climate is temperate but unpredictable. Rain is common from October through April. The bridge’s surface is designed to drain efficiently, but puddles can form in low spots. Always check the forecast before heading out. A light raincoat or waterproof jacket is recommended year-round.

In winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing, but wind chill on the bridge can make it feel colder. Wear insulated gloves and a hat. Ice is rare but possible during prolonged cold snaps. If ice is reported, delay your walk until after the city’s maintenance crew has treated the surface.

Summer brings heat, but the river breeze provides natural cooling. UV exposure is higher on the bridge due to the lack of shade. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, even on cloudy days. The bridge’s steel structure reflects sunlight, increasing exposure on your face and arms.

Safety and Etiquette

St. Johns Bridge is a shared space. Pedestrians, cyclists, and joggers all use the walkway. Follow these best practices:

• Stay to the right when walking to allow faster users to pass on the left.
• Use a bell or voice to announce your presence when passing others.
• Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dog waste bags are available at both ends of the bridge.
• Do not stop in the middle of the walkway to take photos. Move to the viewing platforms or the wider sections near the towers.
• Do not climb on railings, towers, or cables. This is both dangerous and illegal.
• Be aware of traffic. While the pedestrian walkway is separated, vehicles pass within feet of the railing. Never lean over or reach out.

Emergency call boxes are located at both ends of the bridge. They connect directly to Portland Police and are marked with blue signage. If you witness an accident or feel unsafe, use one immediately.

Photography Tips

St. Johns Bridge is one of Portland’s most photographed landmarks. To capture it well:

• Use a tripod for long exposures, especially at dawn or dusk.
• Shoot from the west side (St. Johns) to capture the bridge with the morning sun behind it.
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water and enhance the blue of the sky.
• Include foreground elements like river reeds, bicycles, or people to add scale and context.
• Try shooting from below the bridge on the riverbank for dramatic upward angles of the towers.

Drone use is prohibited within 500 feet of the bridge without a permit from the FAA and the City of Portland. Respect this rule—violations can result in fines and confiscation of equipment.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Applications

Several apps enhance your walking experience:

• AllTrails – Search for “St. Johns Bridge Walk” to find user-submitted photos, trail conditions, and recent reviews. The app tracks your route and provides elevation data.
• Google Maps – Use the walking directions feature to navigate from your current location to either entrance. The app shows real-time pedestrian traffic and nearby amenities.
• Portland Trail Map – An official City of Portland app that includes the St. Johns Bridge as part of the Willamette River Greenway network. It highlights public restrooms, water fountains, and emergency stations.
• Weather Underground – Offers hyperlocal forecasts for the bridge area, including wind speed and temperature at bridge elevation.

Physical Resources

Visit the St. Johns Historical Society, located at 8200 NW St. Johns Avenue, for free brochures and guided walking maps. Their exhibits include original blueprints, construction photos, and interviews with bridge workers from the 1930s.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) maintains a digital archive of bridge maintenance records and historical documents. Accessible at www.portland.gov/transportation/st-johns-bridge, this site includes downloadable PDFs of the bridge’s structural history, accessibility reports, and seasonal closure notices.

Books and Documentaries

For deeper context, consider these resources:

• “Bridging the Willamette: Portland’s River Crossings” by Dr. Eleanor Hayes – A comprehensive history of all major bridges in Portland, with a full chapter on St. Johns Bridge’s design and cultural impact.
• “The Steel Giants: American Suspension Bridges of the 1930s” by Robert Lang – Features St. Johns Bridge alongside the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge as examples of Depression-era public works.
• Documentary: “Towers Over the River” – A 28-minute film produced by Oregon Public Broadcasting. Available on YouTube and the Oregon Historical Society website. Includes interviews with bridge engineers and archival footage of its construction.

Local Events

Each year in June, the City of Portland hosts “Bridge Walk Day,” a community event that includes guided historical tours, live music, and food vendors at both ends of the bridge. Participation is free, and no registration is required. Check the PBOT events calendar in late spring for details.

In October, the Portland Art Museum partners with local photographers to host a “Bridge Light Festival,” where the bridge’s towers are illuminated with rotating colored lights. The event coincides with the autumn foliage, creating a stunning visual contrast against the river and sky.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Photographer’s Journey

Maya, a professional landscape photographer from Eugene, visited St. Johns Bridge in early November. She arrived at 6:30 a.m., just as the first light touched the eastern towers. Using a 24–70mm lens, she captured the mist rising from the river, the dew on the cables, and the soft glow of the bridge’s steel against the gray sky. She walked to the mid-span and waited for 45 minutes until a flock of Canada geese flew beneath the bridge, their V-formation perfectly aligned with the towers. Her photo, titled “Silent Crossing,” was later featured in National Geographic’s “Urban Landscapes” issue.

Example 2: The Commuter’s Routine

James, a 68-year-old retired teacher, walks the bridge every weekday morning as part of his daily exercise routine. He started after recovering from knee surgery and found the gentle incline ideal for rebuilding strength. He carries a small notebook and writes haiku about the changing seasons—the first snow on the cables, the sound of the river in spring, the smell of pine after rain. He shares his poems with other walkers, and a small community of “Bridge Poets” has formed around him.

Example 3: The Family Outing

The Rivera family from Beaverton brought their two young children, ages 5 and 8, to walk the bridge on a Saturday afternoon. They packed snacks, a small kite, and a scavenger hunt list created by their school teacher. Items on the list included “find a red rivet,” “count how many cables you see,” and “spot a heron.” The children were fascinated by the bridge’s size and the sound of cars passing overhead. They ended their walk at the North Portland trailhead, where they rented bikes and rode along the river to the nearby playground.

Example 4: The History Buff’s Deep Dive

Dr. Alan Nguyen, a civil engineering professor at Portland State University, leads a semester-long field study on historic bridges. His students meet at St. Johns Bridge each week to measure cable tension, analyze rust patterns, and interview PBOT maintenance workers. One student’s thesis, “The Acoustics of Suspension: Sound and Structure on St. Johns Bridge,” won a national award and was published in the Journal of Architectural Engineering. The bridge’s unique wind resonance patterns have since been studied by acoustics researchers in Germany and Japan.

FAQs

Is it safe to walk St. Johns Bridge at night?

Yes, the bridge is well-lit with LED fixtures along the pedestrian walkway, and there is regular patrol by Portland Police. However, it’s advisable to walk with a companion and avoid the bridge after midnight. The lighting is sufficient for visibility, but the area around the North Portland end is less populated after dark.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

Absolutely. The pedestrian walkway is fully ADA-compliant with ramps, wide pathways, and non-slip surfaces. Strollers and wheelchairs can navigate the entire route without difficulty. Restrooms are available at both ends of the bridge.

Are dogs allowed on the bridge?

Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Waste bags are provided at both entrances. Please clean up after your pet to maintain the cleanliness of the path.

How long does it take to walk the entire bridge?

On average, it takes 15–20 minutes to walk one way at a moderate pace. A round trip, including stops for photos and rest, typically takes 40–50 minutes.

Is there parking near the bridge?

Yes. On the St. Johns side, there is free street parking along NW Bridge Street and NW St. Johns Avenue. On the North Portland side, parking is available at the Knott Street Trailhead lot, with a 2-hour limit during weekdays and no limit on weekends. Bike racks are also available at both ends.

Can I bike across the bridge?

Yes. The pedestrian walkway is shared with cyclists. Bikers must yield to pedestrians and use a bell or voice to announce their presence. There is no separate bike lane on the bridge, so slow down and be cautious.

Are there restrooms on the bridge?

No. Restrooms are available at both ends: the St. Johns Community Center (NW Bridge Street) and the Knott Street Trailhead (NE Knott Street). Plan accordingly.

Is the bridge ever closed to pedestrians?

Very rarely. The bridge closes only during extreme weather events (e.g., high winds exceeding 50 mph) or during scheduled maintenance. Check the PBOT website or call 503-823-5000 for real-time updates.

What’s the best time of year to walk the bridge?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant temperatures and the most dramatic scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers along the riverbanks, while fall features golden maple and oak leaves. Summer is busy but offers long daylight hours. Winter is quiet and moody, perfect for contemplative walks.

Can I take a guided tour of the bridge?

Yes. The St. Johns Historical Society offers free, volunteer-led walking tours every Saturday at 11 a.m. from May through October. No reservation is needed. Tours last 45 minutes and include stories about the bridge’s construction, its role in Portland’s development, and little-known facts about its design.

Conclusion

Walking St. Johns Bridge Portland is more than a physical journey—it’s a passage through time, engineering, and nature. From the moment you step onto the ramp, you enter a space where history and modernity coexist. The bridge’s towering Gothic arches, the rhythmic hum of passing cars, the whisper of the river below, and the quiet camaraderie of fellow walkers all contribute to an experience that lingers long after you’ve stepped off the asphalt.

This guide has provided you with the practical knowledge to navigate the bridge safely and confidently, the cultural context to appreciate its significance, and the tools to enhance your experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, each walk offers something new—a different light, a new bird sighting, a fresh perspective on the city you call home.

So lace up your shoes, check the weather, and head to either end of the bridge. Walk slowly. Look up. Listen. Let the river carry your thoughts as you cross one of America’s most beautiful and enduring structures. St. Johns Bridge doesn’t just connect two neighborhoods—it connects people to place, to history, and to each other. And that’s a walk worth taking.