Astoria-Megler Bridge Closes Oct. 12 for Massive Oregon / Washington Coast Run Event

Published 10/06/25 at 6:05 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Astoria, Oregon) - The Great Columbia Crossing 10K returns to Astoria on Sunday morning, October 12, 2025, offering a singular, even rare opportunity for participants to cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge on foot. Organized by the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce, this time around the famed Oregon coast event is expected to draw 3,500 registered runners and walkers, supported by dozens of volunteers and partner agencies.

Every year the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber has to warn those traveling between the north Oregon coast and south Washington coast that traffic will see some significant impact. This year is no different for the Astoria-Megler Bridge.

To ensure safety and improve the experience for participants, the entire bridge and a portion of Highway 401 will be closed to vehicle traffic from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. on race day. Local drivers are advised to plan ahead, as traffic in the area will begin to build by 6:00 a.m. when participants begin arriving. Shuttle buses to the starting line will begin operating at 6:30 a.m., contributing to a steady flow of vehicles across the bridge.

The Oregon Department of Transportation will enforce the bridge closure beginning at 8:30 a.m., allowing only emergency vehicles during the event. Normal traffic flow is expected to resume shortly after 11:00 a.m. Drivers are encouraged to schedule crossings before or after the event, or on an alternate day, as vehicles will be redirected away from the bridge during the 2.5-hour closure.

Keep an eye on up-to-the-minute Traffic Conditions: Oregon Coast Highway 101 / Coast Range Traffic | Portland, Oregon Traffic, Road Conditions - Traffic Cams: I-5 - I-205 - I-405 - Hwy 217 - I-84 - Highway 26 Beaverton

“We appreciate the assistance and coordination from the many agencies that provide traffic control, security and safety for this event,” said David Reid, Executive Director of the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce. “The bridge closure is a significant undertaking, and we acknowledge that it impacts people beyond our registered participants. We wish to thank the community for your patience and understanding as we preserve this annual tradition while responding to official concerns for the safety of our volunteers and participants.”

Registration for the 2025 event closed in July after reaching full capacity. However, volunteer shifts remain available, and those interested in supporting the event can sign up through the volunteer page on the official website.

Also see: Goin' with the Flo Vintage Trailer Fest Returns to Central Oregon Coast and Florence - October 11 at Heceta Beach RV Park

Spectators are not permitted at the starting area or on the bridge. Viewing is available at the finish line on the Astoria Riverwalk near Bay Street, where bleachers will be set up. Spectators may walk into the finish area after 8:30 a.m., though no event parking is available on site.

For details on parking, shuttles, or volunteering, contact the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce at 503-325-6311 or visit www.greatcolumbiacrossing.com.

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