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On September 16th bikers will raise awareness for the Coalition for a Livable Future's (CLF) work to enhance the quality of life for future generations of Portlanders.

Bike to the Future is a tour of urban sustainability by bicycle. The 28 mile route is relatively flat and takes you to interactive destinations where you will learn about affordable and sustainable housing, green building, smart urban design, community gardens, urban ecology, local food, alternative transportation and other elements of a vibrant, livable community.

This ride is fully supported and includes course markings, printed ride guides, support vehicles, mechanical and medical aides on course, water and nutritional snacks at rest stops, a finish line festival, dinner and much more. The easy route has many relaxing stops along the way and is perfect for riders of all skill levels.

"Changes are on the horizon," the organizers say. "Let's make sure those changes reflect the values of a livable community that everyone can share and let's spend the afternoon exploring innovative projects that are already in progress."

With visits to off the beaten track gems and well-known Portland landmarks - this 28-mile urban route has it all. Four interactive destinations hosted by CLF partner organizations will highlight Portland's livability successes and visions for the future. Along the way you'll cruise past points of interest that showcase Portland's best in livability practices. The route is mostly flat with plenty of relaxation and resting stops every few miles.

DESTINATION #1 - Cathedral ParkEver wondered what lies on the east side of the Willamette River in North Portland? Join NPGreenway on a mini-tour of the envisioned North Portland Greenway path that will allow walkers and cyclists to travel all the way from the St. Johns Bridge to central eastside Portland on an off-street path along the river. The tour will include the beautiful and not often visited Willamette Cove area.

DESTINATION #2 - New Columbia Housing
NW Housing Alternatives and the Housing Authority of Portland will lead guided tours of this modern mixed-income housing project. Bringing together the best in community and environmental design, the large development features programs for youth and adults, a large park, a school and community center, a community garden, "main street" and green buildings.

DESTINATION #3 - Columbia Slough Watershed / Whitaker Ponds
Explore wetlands restoration projects with the Columbia Slough Watershed Council. Perform a water quality test, mini macro-invertebrate study, or just sit on the docks and swing your legs....

DESTINATION #4 - Sunnyside Environmental School
Enjoy a finish line party and relax in the lovely setting of Sunnyside Environmental School. Tour the community gardens and other innovative school projects.

Looks fun! I'm talking to some friends about possibly going. I like the Whitaker Ponds area. I also like to visit Smith and Bybee Lakes, will the ride go there?

I agree, we think this looks like a fun ride. My husband, kids and I would really love this sort of thing. We're out of town for it this year but please, please do the ride again next year.