Distance: 4 miles
Route map: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2318159
This classic Portland route heads down Couch to the
waterfront to the Japanese-American Historical Plaza. Head left and cross to
the East Side via Steel Bridge. You'll continue on the waterfront over a 1200
foot long floating bridge, under the Burnside and Morrison Bridges, and then
cross back to the West Side via the Hawthorne Bridge. Head past the Salmon
Street Fountain and back to the Japanese-American Historical plaza to complete
your Esplanade loop. Head back up Couch Street to return to the start to
complete the 4 miles.
Highlights:
1. Japanese-American Historical Plaza
 |
| One of the thirteen engraved basalt and granite stones that commemorate the Japanese-American experience. |
2. Portland's tribute to the real Argo
3. Steel Bridge
 |
| Built in 1912, the Steel Bridge has upper and lower decks that raise independently. Pedestrians, cyclists, cars, trains, and light rail all use the bridge on a daily basis. |
4. Floating bridge
 |
| At 1,200 feet, the floating walkway is the longest one of its kind in the United States |
5. Ghost ship
 |
| The Ghost Ship by James Harrison pays homage to the ships that have gone down in crossing the Columbia River Bar |
