Foot Traffic Flat lives up to its name \u2014 the course on Sauvie Island, a pastoral island just northwest of Portland, is famously flat, making it one of Oregon’s premier PR courses. Runners traverse the island’s farm roads and levee paths with sweeping views of the Columbia River and the Coast Range. The marathon course closes at 11:30 a.m. (5.5-hour limit), while the half, quarter marathon, and 5K all follow the same scenic route at shorter distances.<\/p>\n
Held every July 4th, this beloved Foot Traffic event starts near the NW Portland bridge access to Sauvie Island. Shuttle buses run from the Silver Cloud Inn in NW Portland to the island start, making it easy to get there without driving. The race features multiple distances so families and competitive runners all have a distance, and group discounts are available for teams of six or more.<\/p>\n
There’s something magical about racing through a working farm island on the Fourth of July, surrounded by wildflowers, herons, and the smell of freshly cut hay. Foot Traffic Flat consistently delivers fast finish times thanks to the near-zero elevation gain \u2014 Boston qualifiers are a common sight on the results board. The post-race celebration back in Portland often extends into Fourth of July fireworks viewing.<\/p>\n
Bib pick-up takes place at Foot Traffic retail stores in the days before the race \u2014 confirm dates the week of the event. Arrive early for the shuttle from Silver Cloud Inn or risk a lengthy drive and parking hassle. Start early if you’re running the marathon, as the course closes before the July heat peaks. Wear sunscreen \u2014 the island course offers limited shade.<\/p>\n