The Bridge of the Gods Run draws adventurers eager to experience a unique blend of natural force and human engineering across the Columbia River Gorge. Spanning about 5.5 miles out and back, this moderate trail offers a straightforward route with roughly 600 feet of elevation gain, inviting casual hikers and seasoned runners alike to test their pace from Cascade Locks, Oregon, to Washington’s side and back. The path hugs forested sections where Douglas firs stand firm, while the iconic suspension bridge itself dares you forward, its steel cables humming softly in the wind above the powerful river below.

Starting at the Bridge of the Gods trailhead near Cascade Locks, prepare for a route that balances pavement and dirt paths. The terrain twists between shaded greenery and open viewpoints, rewarding persistent steps with sweeping views of Mount Hood to the south and the river’s relentless current pressing through the gorge. The bridge is both an adventure and a vantage point, a structure fiercely itself—both a crossing and a destination. Watch for gusts that push against you as you cross, reminding you that this landscape never yields easily.

It’s wise to approach this run with preparation: sturdy footwear with good grip for the mix of surfaces, hydration enough to cover roughly two hours of effort at a moderate pace, and layering options as winds on the bridge can swing temperatures noticeably. Early mornings or late afternoons provide cooler air and softer light, enhancing both comfort and photography potential. Avoid midday runs on the bridge if wind is high—cross that suspending steel with respect.

The Bridge of the Gods is more than a route; it’s an engagement with a place that flows, resists, and offers perspective. Expect runners, walkers, and cyclists to share the trail, each propelled by the call of water, forest, and sky. Challenges come not from harsh technical demands but in maintaining momentum against the steady climb and occasional gusts.

For those seeking an adventure that pairs an accessible trail with a dose of wild Columbia River energy, the Bridge of the Gods Run fits neatly into any outdoor itinerary. This route invites you to measure your rhythm against one of the Northwest’s most striking natural corridors, with just enough challenge to remind you the gorge remains fiercely alive.