The Seattle to Portland (STP) Bike Race is more than just a ride; it’s a Pacific Northwest cycling tradition. This guide provides everything you need to know about participating in this iconic event, ensuring you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable experience. From registration details to route specifics and essential support information, we’ve got you covered for the Bike Race Seattle To Portland.
Register for the Seattle to Portland Bike Race
Securing your spot in the Seattle to Portland bike race is the first step towards conquering this challenge. Your registration fee is comprehensive, covering your entry into the race, access to well-stocked rest stops, reliable ride support throughout the course, convenient baggage truck service to transport your belongings, a well-deserved meal at the finish line to celebrate your achievement, and a commemorative STP finisher souvenir to remember your accomplishment.
For additional conveniences, parking passes, bus transportation to and from the event, and bike transport services are available as add-ons to your registration. For those arriving early, early start line bag and bike drop services can be purchased on-site on the Friday preceding the STP bike race. Lodging arrangements, however, are made independently with your chosen hosts, allowing for personalized accommodation planning.
Gear Up with Official STP Swag
Show your STP pride and gear up for the ride with official Seattle to Portland Bike Race swag! The highly sought-after retro STP Tyvek jackets are back by popular demand and available for purchase. You can also acquire official STP jerseys, STP shorts, or STP T-shirts to enhance your race day attire and commemorate your participation. STP Swag can be conveniently added to your bike race registration or purchased separately through Shop Cascade Gear. Make sure you have the best gear for your bike race Seattle to Portland adventure.
Packet Pickup Information for the Bike Race Seattle to Portland
Efficient packet pickup ensures you have everything you need for the Seattle to Portland bike race. If you register by June 17th, your packet will be mailed out during the week of June 28th to the address listed in your user profile, providing a hassle-free start to your preparation.
For registrations made on June 18th or later, your packet will be available for pickup at the start line on Friday, July 12th, from 6 to 9 p.m. or on Saturday morning of the STP bike race. Detailed schedule information is provided below to help you plan your arrival and pickup. Should you encounter any issues, such as a lost packet, please visit the green Cascade tents located at the start line for assistance.
Exploring the Seattle to Portland Bike Race Route
The scenic Seattle to Portland bike race route stretches approximately 203 to 206 miles, offering a challenging yet rewarding cycling experience through the Pacific Northwest.
[Imagine a map of the Seattle to Portland bike race route here]
While the map is subject to potential minor adjustments, it is highly recommended to download the final route maps to your preferred device the day before the event. This ensures you have the most accurate and up-to-date navigational information readily accessible throughout your Seattle to Portland bike race journey. Printed cue sheets will also be available at the start line tents for those who prefer a paper format. Additionally, the route is clearly marked with navigational markings directly on the road surface, guiding you along the way. For a comprehensive view of the route, click through to see the full map on Ride With GPS.
Seattle to Portland Bike Race Schedule
Staying on schedule is crucial for a smooth Seattle to Portland bike race experience. Here’s a detailed schedule of key times:
| Friday | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Early Packet Pickup | 6:00 p.m. | 9:00 p.m. |
| Early Bag Drop | 6:00 p.m. | 9:00 p.m. |
| Saturday | ||
| Packet Pickup | 4:45 a.m. | 7:15 a.m. |
| Bag Drop | 4:45 a.m. | 7:15 a.m. |
| Start Line – One-Day Riders | 5:00 a.m. | 5:30 a.m. |
| Start Line – Two-Day Riders | 5:30 a.m. | 7:30 a.m. |
| Course Support | 5:00 a.m. | 9:00 p.m. |
| Finish Line | 3:00 p.m. | 9:00 p.m. |
| Sunday | ||
| Course Support | 6:00 a.m. | 7:00 p.m. |
| Finish Line | 10:00 a.m. | 7:00 p.m. |
Transportation and Logistics for STP Bike Race
Planning your transportation to and from the Seattle to Portland bike race is essential for a stress-free experience.
Alaska Airlines Discount: Take advantage of an exclusive offer for participants! Alaska Airlines is providing a single-use 10% discount on flights to and from PDX (Portland) and SEA (Seattle). This offer is valid for ticketing from now through July 12, 2025, and for travel between July 10 and July 15, 2025. To claim your discount, email [email protected] with the subject line “Alaska Airlines Discount Code”. For any assistance with the code, please contact the Alaska Airlines help center.
Pre-Ride Bus from Portland: For riders originating from the Portland area, the Portland Bicycling Club organizes bus and truck services to transport you and your bike to Seattle on Friday, the day before the bike race Seattle to Portland commences. For detailed information and bookings, please visit their website. These services can be added during your registration process. Note that space is limited to 200 passengers, and parking at the Portland departure point is limited to 100 vehicles.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Friday Bus Only | $50 |
| Friday Bus & Bike Transport | $100 |
| Parking at DoubleTree | $45 |
Post-Ride Bus to Seattle: After completing the Seattle to Portland bike race, transportation back to Seattle from Portland is available. Bus services, including bike transport, can be purchased as add-ons to your registration. Buses depart on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, returning to the University of Washington in Seattle. Separate bike-only transportation is also an option. For those flying or taking a train home, bike box delivery to the finish line can be arranged.
| Service | Price | Deadline to purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Bus & Bike Transportation | $100 | |
| Bike-Only Transportation | $60 | |
| Bike Box Transportation | $20 | — |
| Bike Storage | $20/day | — |
| UW Start Line Parking | $17/day | — |
Inclusion and Community at the Seattle to Portland Bike Race
The Seattle to Portland bike race welcomes everyone, fostering a diverse and inclusive bicycling community. Cascade Events is dedicated to creating safe and respectful spaces at start lines, finish lines, and all official rest stops. Learn more about their commitment to anti-racism and participant code of conduct and grievance policy to understand the values upheld during the bike race Seattle to Portland.
We acknowledge that this bike race and related activities take place on native land, recognizing the traditional land of the Duwamish People, the first people of Seattle.
Food and Rest Stops Along the Route
Fueling your body is crucial during the Seattle to Portland bike race. Four official rest stops are strategically located at approximately miles 20, 54, 146, and 176. These stops offer a variety of snacks, fresh fruit, and classic PB&Js to keep riders energized.
[Image of cyclists at a rest stop during a bike race, possibly with food and drinks visible]
One-day riders will also benefit from a designated lunch stop on Saturday, ensuring adequate nutrition throughout the day. In addition to these major stops, thirteen official mini-stops are positioned along the course, providing more frequent opportunities to refresh. The supportive atmosphere of the Seattle to Portland bike race extends to the many unofficial rest stops that often pop up along the route, offering a taste of local hospitality and community support.
Accommodation Options for the Seattle to Portland Bike Race
Arranging your accommodation is a key part of planning for the Seattle to Portland bike race. Participants are responsible for securing their own lodging at the start line, mid-point areas, and finish line as needed.
The University of Washington provides convenient dorm room options for Friday night, situated near the start line. Two-day riders seeking mid-point lodging can find options through Centralia College, the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce, and other local community organizations around the 100- to 150-mile mark of the Seattle to Portland bike race. Lodging choices range from private rooms to tent and RV camping, accommodating various preferences and budgets. For those finishing in Portland, DoubleTree and Hyatt Regency offer special promotions for STP riders, located conveniently near the finish line.
Support Services During the Bike Race
Rest assured, the Seattle to Portland bike race is fully supported to ensure rider safety and assistance. Cascade staff and volunteers, along with local community groups and municipal services, provide comprehensive support throughout the event.
Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles are actively patrolling the route and can be dispatched via the ride support hotline. SAG vehicles are equipped to transport riders and most bike models in case of mechanical issues or minor medical situations. In life-threatening emergencies, always prioritize calling 911.
[Image of a SAG vehicle assisting a cyclist during a bike race]
Outrider volunteers, easily identifiable in white, green, and black jerseys, are present on the route to assist with minor mechanical and medical issues, offer guidance and directions, and promote safe riding practices. Medical riders, wearing red and blue jerseys, are also available to provide aid for minor medical concerns such as cuts, dehydration, and sprains. Mechanics are stationed at the start line and most official rest stops to handle bike repairs. Traffic officers are positioned at highway crossings, specifically directing large groups of riders across the Longview Bridge into Oregon on Sunday between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
To maintain safety and smooth flow, personal support vehicles are requested to remain off the official STP route. Riders needing to meet personal support should arrange to do so away from the route to avoid congestion and ensure rider safety during the bike race Seattle to Portland.
Weather Considerations for the STP Bike Race
Be prepared for varied weather conditions during the Seattle to Portland bike race in July. The weather can range from rain to extreme heat and intense sunshine. Morning temperatures may differ significantly from midday temperatures. Dressing in layers and carrying extra layers on your bike is highly recommended to adapt to changing conditions throughout your Seattle to Portland bike race experience.
Ensure your bike is tuned up and ready for potentially slick, rainy, and low-visibility conditions. Essential preparations include equipping your bike with front and rear lights, carrying backup batteries, installing fenders, servicing your brakes, and cleaning your chain to ensure optimal performance and safety during the Seattle to Portland bike race, regardless of the weather.
Training Resources for the Seattle to Portland Bike Race
Proper training is key to successfully completing the Seattle to Portland bike race. The Cascade Training Series, a twelve-week program, is specifically designed to prepare you for STP. This series caters to riders of all paces, helping build strength, endurance, and confidence for the challenge ahead.
To further aid your preparation, explore the extensive schedule of Free Group Rides offered in the Puget Sound area. These rides cater to various schedules, paces, and distances, providing excellent opportunities to train in a group setting. If you prefer training independently, utilize this handy Google Sheet to effectively plan your rides and track your progress towards conquering the Seattle to Portland bike race.
Seattle to Portland Bike Race Hall of Fame
Join the ranks of accomplished cyclists by becoming a member of the STP Hall of Fame! If you have completed the Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic five or more times, you are eligible for this prestigious recognition. Stay tuned for the new form to fill out to add or update your listing and celebrate your enduring participation in the bike race Seattle to Portland.
Link to STP Hall of Fame 2022 Document: STP Hall of Fame 2022
Volunteer at the Seattle to Portland Bike Race
Contribute to the success of this remarkable event by volunteering! The dedication and enthusiasm of volunteers are the backbone of Cascade’s programs, including Free Group Rides, major rides like the Seattle to Portland bike race, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives. Become a volunteer and make a meaningful impact on building a better cycling community for everyone. Register to volunteer here.
This comprehensive guide ensures you are fully informed and prepared for the Seattle to Portland Bike Race. We look forward to seeing you at the start line!
