Where to Kayak in Portland
Portland is Oregon’s largest city. It sits on the Columbia and Willamette rivers, in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood with a sprawling urban forest, dozens of public parks and gorgeous gardens. From the mountains to the coast and the rivers to the forests, there’s never a shortage of ways to explore Portland.
Portland Kayaking Destinations
Portland has something for every type of outdoor enthusiast including kayakers with a variety of excellent kayaking destinations right in the city. Check out these gorgeous beginner, intermediate, and advanced spots for paddling, all within an easy drive of town Portland.
Ross Island Paddle Loop
Willamette River in Portland, OR
Take in the skyline views of Portland from your kayak. The Ross Island Paddle Loop is a popular water trail on the Willamette River. It offers stunning views of downtown Portland as well as the surrounding nature. Starting and ending at Sellwood Riverfront Park, this easy 5-mile loop will take you around Ross Island. There you can enjoy a break on the beach. Along the way watch for eagles, blue herons, deer and river otters.
Cathedral Park
Willametta River in Portland, OR
Another popular paddle on the Willametta River in Portland is Cathedral Park. It is located on the North Portland peninsula and sits on the east shore of the Willamette River. Here you’ll find a family-friendly beach to launch from and spectacular views of the St. Johns Bridge, the city skyline, and industrial areas as you paddle.
Clackamas River
Oregon City, OR
You’ll find a wide variety of kayaking experiences on the Clackamas River near Portland. For a leisurely paddle stick to the Lower Clackamas, offering a gentle, scenic float. The Upper Clackamas offers a more challenging paddle with continuous class II-III rapids, with a little class IV sprinkled in. This section of river sits within the Mt. Hood National Forest and is about an hour from Portland.
Trillium Lake
Government Camp, OR
Trillium Lake is one of the most picturesque locations in the world. Surrounded by forest, the lake offers stunning views and breathtaking reflections of Mt. Hood on its glass-like surface. The lake is 63-acres with a two mile shoreline trail and calm, serene waters. It’s located about 1.5 hours from Portland in the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Sauvie Island
Columbia River in Portland, OR
Sauvie Island is another popular Portland kayaking destination with diverse routes for all types of kayakers. You’ll find calm sloughs and lakes, as well as challenging channels. For a calm, secluded paddle, check out the Gilber River and Sturgeon Lake, which can be found within Sauvie Island Wildlife Refuge. Cunningham Slough, accessible from Scappoose Bay, offers a secluded and adventurous bayou experience. Or paddle along the inside of Sauvie Island through the Multnomah Channel for a beautiful, but challenging adventure.
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