Poet's Beach, Urban beach near Marquam Bridge in Portland, United States
Description
Poet's Beach is a public beach along the western bank of the Willamette River in Portland, featuring a stone pathway that leads directly to the water beneath Marquam Bridge. The shoreline extends along the river with accessible entry points and seating areas that overlook the water and surrounding landscape.
History
The Human Access Project transformed the location in 2014, changing it from a basic kayak launch into a fully accessible public beach for recreation. This renovation opened the river to wider use and created a destination where visitors could connect with water and nature within the city.
Culture
Stones placed along the pathway hold children's poetry about the Willamette River, combined with native Chinook language from the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. These inscriptions create a conversation between nature, local writing, and indigenous presence that visitors encounter as they walk.
Practical
Swimming is possible from July through September, with water conditions changing based on tides, wind, and temperature throughout the season. Visitors should check conditions before entering the water and plan visits according to their comfort with these natural variations.
Did you know?
Peter Attila Andrusko engraved thirty poetry excerpts and language translations directly into riverside rocks, creating an outdoor gallery of words and images. This artistic addition transforms the beach into a place where visitors stumble upon literary moments while walking near the water.
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