There are several organizations that have walks and promote walking as an activity.  Here is a brief description of some walking groups with links to websites or information on how to contact them.  If you know of a group with free walks in the Portland metropolitan area, please contact Steph Routh (503.223.1597).


American Volkssports Association (Oregon) - Provide walking events, bikes, occasional swims, and snowshoes every year throughout Oregon. All events are open to the public.

Columbia River Volkssport Club - Organizes quality non-competitive walking events in scenic and historic areas.

East County Wind Walkers - A Volkswalking group based in Gresham, Oregon.

Mazamas, Street Rambles - This organization of hikers offers twice weekly walks in Portland, departing from the  REI store at NW 14th and Johnson.

Metro Walk There - Explore historic neighborhoods and scenic natural areas with 50 downloadable treks in Portland and Vancouver from Metro's Walk There! guide book.

Portland Metro Urban Hikers Meetup Group - This meetup specializes in hikes in and around the Portland metro urban area. Most hikes will be dog friendly and accessible by bus.

Portland Senior Strolls - A program designed to offer seniors an easy, pleasant, social walking experience, and to give them the confidence to consider walking as a transportation option.   Strolls range from 1 to 2 plus miles in length.

Portland Ten Toe Express - A series of guided walks in Portland that is free and open to all.

Portland Walking Routes - A website with a collection of walking routes, designed to help people discover Portland.

Racewalkers Northwest - An organization dedicated to physical fitness through safe, systematic training and mental fitness through competition.  All ages and racewalking abilities welcome.

Southwest Trails Group - A committee of Southwest Neighborhoods, Inc. that has group walks leaving from the Hillsdale neighborhood.

Wonders of Walking - For walkers for all levels, motivations, skills and goals to come together to motivate and support each other, and have fun.
 

(Photo credit: Anne Meagher)