Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade

A Riverside Journey

The 1,200-foot floating walkway is the longest of its kind in the United States, and it's the centerpiece of the Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade. This floating section rises and falls with the Willamette River's seasonal changes, which can vary by up to 30 feet throughout the year.

The Esplanade stretches 1.5 miles along the east bank of the Willamette in Portland, Oregon, running from the Hawthorne Bridge to the Steel Bridge. Completed in 2001, the pedestrian and bicycle path transformed the space between the riverbank and Interstate 5 from an overlooked area into a vibrant urban pathway.

What to Expect

The path offers excellent views of Portland's skyline across the water. Photographers, take note - this is where you'll capture those iconic Portland vistas across the water. The path welcomes walkers, runners, and cyclists around the clock, staying open 24/7 for whenever inspiration strikes.

Just a heads up: you won't find restrooms, picnic areas, or playgrounds along the way. There's also limited shade, so on those sunny Portland days (yes, they do happen!), bring your hat and water bottle. The Esplanade takes on a different character at night when city lights reflect on the water, though be aware that some sections can get quite dark and quiet after sunset.

Learning Along the Way

As you stroll, you'll encounter 13 urban markers positioned at strategic points marking the eastside street grid. These are complemented by 22 interpretive panels that tell the stories of the river, Portland's distinctive bridges, and the evolution of the city's eastside neighborhoods.

Two visitors walk along the Eastbank Esplanade with Morrison Bridge visible in the distance

Photo: Parker Knight (CC BY 2.0)

Green by Design

Beyond functioning as a path, the Esplanade also incorporates environmental restoration elements. The riverbank has been thoughtfully reshaped in certain areas to create shallow habitats for aquatic life, while native vegetation helps filter I-5 runoff before it reaches the Willamette.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife - there are even beavers that have made homes near the Burnside Bridge area. It's a little reminder of Oregon's wild side persisting right at the edge of downtown.

Artistic Touches

Art brings the Esplanade to life through four distinctive installations created by RIGGA, a collective of Portland artists. Between the Morrison Bridge and the floating walkway, you'll discover "Echo Gate," "Ghost Ship," "Stack Stalk," and "Alluvial Wall" - each piece connecting to Portland's river history in its own unique way.

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A Mayor's Legacy

In November 2004, the path was renamed to honor former Portland Mayor Vera Katz, whose leadership was instrumental in making the Esplanade a reality. Visit the plaza at the southern end to find a bronze sculpture of Mayor Katz created by Bill Bane, installed in 2006 - a tribute to the mayor who played a key role in the Esplanade's development.