Skip to main content
HomeEventsCol River Waterfront to Van Lake / 12 Pace / 500' / 21 mi / RL John Ost / 9 AM

Events - Event View

Col River Waterfront to Van Lake / 12 Pace / 500' / 21 mi / RL John Ost / 9 AM

warning If you are a member, please log in to access member benefits, if available. close

About this event

Ride Type
Group
Pace
16-18 mph
Distance
21 miles
Elevation Gain
500 feet
Terrain
Moderate
Cancellation Considerations: Rain / Temps < 40°F / Lightning / Wind > 25 mph / Air Quality (AQI) > 100
RESPECT THE ROLL
Be geared up and bike-ready 10 minutes early. We start the briefing then, so we can roll on time. Don't keep the group waiting!

Ride Description

A year-round VBC classic! Perfect for both beginners and experienced cyclists, this safe route features dedicated bike paths and wide shoulders throughout.

Route Details & Safety

  • Start Location: Vancouver PUD parking lot (easy access off I-5; weekday indoor restrooms available).
  • Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, the route uses the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail. To avoid slippery bridges in fall, winter, and spring, the route shifts to road shoulders out to Frenchman’s Bar.
  • Lower River Road: High-speed traffic and occasional road debris make caution essential. We strongly recommend using the parallel bike path and keeping speeds moderate to enjoy the view and avoid hazards.
  • Pace & Extras: Listed at 12 mph, but everyone rides their own pace. We regroup at Frenchman's Bar for snacks by the Columbia River. Want extra mileage? Continue past the turnoff to the dead-end for a scenic, 3-mile round-trip add-on.

Wildlife & Scenic Highlights Keep your eyes peeled! You'll often spot thousands of migrating Canada geese, egrets, nesting ospreys, coyotes, deer, and the unmistakable croak of Sandhill cranes.

Support & Post-Ride Social

  • Ride Leader Support: Flat tires or mechanical issues? The ride leader is here to help and happy to sweep with new riders—save their phone number before rolling out.
  • Post-Ride Coffee: We finish with a stop at Java House (under a mile from the finish) to grab coffee and catch up with friends from the Portland Bicycling Club.

Route Map

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46209447

Preview Route Map

Rider Guidelines

  • Arrive early: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and pre-ride briefing.
  • Know the club policies: Read the Safe Riding Policy and be familiar with the Ride Style Definitions.
  • Required: Helmets Recommended: Lights (front and rear), RoadIDs, and cell phones.
  • ABC Quick Check: Check air, brakes, chain/crank, quick releases before leaving for the ride and again at start.
  • Maintain pace: Be able to maintain the stated pace. Tell leader if leaving route or turning back.
  • Represent cycling: Be an awesome representative of cycling by obeying traffic laws, riding safely, and being courteous.

Date and Time

Thursday, November 5, 2026, 9:00 AM

Location

Paper Tiger Coffee Roasters
(Parking lot on Evergreen behind Paper Tiger)
703 Grand Blvd
Vancouver, WA  98661
USA

Event Contact(s)

John H Ost
503-367-4183 (p)

Category

Easy Ride

Registration Info

Registration is required
Online registration is required, so please register.
Registration cancellations will be accepted

Number of People Who Will Attend

Any Non-Member *
(No Fee)
* This can be your primary registrant type. Only one primary registrant type is allowed per registration.
Register Now