Portlanders are known for being outdoorsy. Ask most Portlanders what they like to do, and chances are you will get running, biking, hiking, climbing or snow sports as an answer. Although many locals simply go for a run or bike in Forest Park on their own, Portland also offers many athletic events that raise money for good causes. These fundraisers are a great way to meet people with similar interests, see the city, and push yourself to train a little bit harder.

Climb for Clean Air

This American Lung Association fundraiser teaches participants basic climbing skills in preparation for climbing Mt. Hood in late June. Climbers do not need previous climbing experience, but they do need to be in good physical condition. The climb includes dinner and lodging the night before the climb, dinner the night after the climb, training events and fundraising packets. Registration costs $150, so the climb is a great deal in comparison to paying for lodging, food and a climbing guide. Participants are also expected to fundraise for the American Lung Association. Participants must find their own transportation to Mt. Hood and some of their own gear.

Visit action.lung.org for more information.

Reach the Beach

Reach the Beach is an American Lung Association fundraising bike ride from Portland, Newberg, Amity or Grand Ronde to the Oregon coast at Pacific City. The ride has about 3,000 participants each year, and it usually fills up. The 100-mile ride from Portland to Pacific City is a great long-distance ride for experienced bikers who are starting to look into biking long distances. Because the American Lung Association offers medical support, mechanical support, lunch stops and a feast in Pacific City, this ride allows you to cover a long distance with a lot more help than you might have on your own.

Visit http://action.lung.org/site/TR?fr_id=5060&pg=entry for more information.

Providence Bridge Pedal

The Providence Bridge Pedal is one of Portland’s best-known yearly bike rides. As the name suggests, it takes advantage of Portland’s beautiful bridges. The bridges offer great views of the city, and the ride raises money for Providence Heath and Services. The ride takes place during summer each year, so riders can enjoy Oregon’s nice summer weather.

For more information, visit http://blog.bridgepedal.com/.

Worst Day of the Year Ride

The Worst Day of the Year Ride embraces rainy Portland weather with a fundraiser on February 12, a day known for its historically bad weather. This 18-mile-ride travels around downtown Portland and offers three rest stops with treats. At the end of the ride, there is hot soup to warm riders up after facing the cold weather. The ride has space for 4,000 riders and sells out each year. It costs around $50 to register, depending on how early you sign up. The proceeds help the Community Cycling Center, a bike shop that has many volunteer projects and programs to make biking more accessible.

For more information, visit http://worstdayride.com/.

Get Your Rear in Gear

This 5k run/walk for colon cancer takes place during summer in Portland. A 5k is a great length for somewhat new runners, because it is so much shorter than 10k races and the Portland Marathon. Many of the runners fund-raise to support the Colon Cancer Coalition, and companies also donate money in exchange for advertising at the race.

For more information, visit http://www.getyourrearingear.com.

Shamrock Run

Portland’s yearly Shamrock Run celebrates the beginning of the running season in March while raising money for Doernbecher Children's Hospital. The run features a 15k, an 8k and a 5k, so racers of all levels can participate. There is also a 5k walk and a 1k children’s run. This is one of the largest runs in Portland, with up to 32,000 participants each year. During this fun run, many runners wear green and other St. Patrick’s Day gear. Registration costs $34 or $39, depending on how early you sign up. All participants get a t-shirt. People who finish the longest race get shamrock bottle openers.

For more information, visit http://www.shamrockrunportland.com.

Portland Marathon

The Portland Marathon and Half Marathon raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Going The Distance Foundation. The races take place each year in October, although runners are encouraged to register during the winter or spring before the race. Marathon registration is $125 dollars, and half marathon registration is $250. Participants do not need to run; they can also register for marathon walks. Since the runs are so long, marathon runners get to see a ton of Portland, including the downtown area and multiple bridges crossing the river.

For more information, visit http://www.portlandmarathon.org/. 

For more information about the author, Lisa Chinn, please visit their profile page.