With so many lush green spaces, mountains, rivers, glistening city lights, and scenic beauty, I honestly think that Portland OR is one of the best cities for those want to get out and enjoy nature.
If you plan on visiting Portland and kayaking is your thing, here are the best places to kayak in and near Portland, Oregon…

- +1 503-496-1201
- 1955 Clackamette Dr, Oregon City,
- 6:00am-9:00pm


Clackamette Park & Cove
The Clackamette Park & Cove is located at the junction of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers. This one is bound to take you on an adventure of a lifetime and is equally popular among beginners and experienced rafters and paddlers due to its varying class rapids.
From offering a tranquil paddle along the Lower Clackamas and the southern section to an exhilarating ride along the northern section of the river, cruising along the Clackamas is a great way to experience kayaking during your trip to Portland.
However, due to the river’s proximity to the area, you can expect to see more people here at any given time compared to other kayaking spots.
Pros
Allows individuals to choose challenge level
Situated at a scenic junction of two rivers
Learning opportunities
Cons
Some safety risks for inexperienced rafters
The park has limited amenities
Nearby Attractions
Dahl beach city park
Coastal farm and ranch
Must Do Things
Engage in rafting
Simply enjoying the scenic beauty
Facilities
Fishing spots
Areas for birdwatching
Scappoose Bay
Have you been yearning for some peaceful time after a tough week at work? Why not enjoy the scenic beauty and magnificent wildlife at Scappoose Bay?
Scappoose Bay offers kayak rentals, much less boat traffic than other locations, and many exciting activities like ‘gunkholing.’
This kayaking spot is just a half-hour drive north of Portland. You can even kayak from the bay to the Multnomah Channel and then to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse from Sauvie Island.
However, you can paddle to the Columbia to St Helen’s Marina if you want a longer ride. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy the ride!
Pros
Availability of kayak rentals
Lower boat traffic
Kayakers can choose from different routes
Cons
Tidal changes
Limited amenities
Nearby Attractions
St. Helens Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Must Do Things
Wildlife watching
Exploring shallow coves
Facilities
Offers kayak rentals
boat
Options for guided tours and lessons
Willamette River
The Willamette River is a 185-mile trail from Eugene to Portland and is ideal for extended kayak trips.
The Willamette is the best choice for beginners, featuring beautiful parks, ferries, scenery, and wildlife. Pack your binoculars and enjoy the mesmerizing views along the way.
Although the calm waters would not pose any concern, it is always wise to stay vigilant as you navigate the river to look out for any changes in current.
Pros
Provides opportunities for wildlife observation
Willamette River allows for extended kayak trips
The trail provides access to beautiful park and rest areas
Cons
Weather dependent
Limited services in remote areas
Nearby Attractions
Portland Japanese garden
Must Do Things
Picnics at parks
Serene ferry rides
Facilities
Boat launches
Restrooms
Columbia Slough Watershed
Home to otters, turtles, and several birds, Columbia Slough Watershed is a haven for nature. The slough is almost a 20-mile channel running parallel to the Columbian River.
Given your time, a good starting point would be Kelly Point Park, from where you could either reach the Willamette River or keep going up the slough.
If you are not sure when would be a good time to paddle, it’s recommended to save it for when the water level is running high in the springtime.
Pros
Rich biodiversity
Kayakers have flexibility to start at Kelly Point
Seasonal ideal paddling
Wildlife spotting
Cons
Variable water levels
Urban Environmental Impact
Nearby Attractions
Dutch Bros Coffee
Must Do Things
Birdwatching
Peaceful exploration of the natural habitat
Facilities
Kayak launch points at parks
Designated areas for birdwatching and wildlife
Tualatin River
Have you never tried kayaking before? Need to cool off on a hot summer day? Looking for an exciting outdoor activity to try with your friends? Well, the Tualatin River is your answer for all of the above.
Towards the end, the river meets the Willamette River, meaning that as soon as you are done kayaking, you can enjoy Willamette Park. A complete retreat!
Pros
Refreshing summer activity
The picturesque surroundings and natural landscapes
Access to Willamette Park
Cons
Seasonal Limitations
Limited facilities
Nearby Attractions
Willamette Park
Must Do Things
Enjoy kayaking
Relax or engage in outdoor activities
Facilities
Picnic areas
Willamette Park provides additional amenities
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area
As unique as it sounds, Smith and Bybee is America’s largest wetland area, also hosting the largest populations of bald eagles and beavers.
Be on the lookout, April through June, sunrise to sunset; the nation’s best-kept secret shouldn’t go amiss. One thing, though, is that for all kayak spots on this list, always check the paddling conditions before heading out to avoid disappointment.
Pros
Largest wetland area in America
The wetlands offer an educational experience
The wetlands boast beautiful natural scenery
Cons
Paddling conditions
Crowded during peak times
Nearby Attractions
Oregon Metal Services
Smith lake
Must Do Things
Enjoy kayaking to witness diverse wildlife
Immerse in the serenity of the largest wetland area
Facilities
Preserving the natural habitat
Visitors can often find informational signs
Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake has an area of 63 acres, surrounded by beautiful wetlands and shorelines. It has a fishing pier and a few boat ramps, ideal for kayaking and walking along the 2-mile shoreline with stunning views of Mt. Hood.
It is also famous for its campground in the conifer forest with about 60 sites.
If, for some reason, you are a bit overwhelmed by kayak, you can opt for a peaceful hike down the lakeside. Pro-Tip: if you avoid busier hours, try leaving early in the morning on any mid-week day.
Pros
Specific area for kayaking
Overnight Camping Ground
Stunning sceney
Cons
Parking can be limited during peak times.
Nearby Attractions
Mt hood
Must Do Things
Sledging (in winter)
Snowshoeing (in winter)
Kayaking
Facilities
Restrooms
Picnic tables
Sparks Lake
A nature wonder formed thousands of years ago from Mount Bachelor’s volcanic eruptions; Sparks Lake is an exhilarating place to go canoeing and kayaking.
Craggy terrain with a view of the Deschutes National Forest and the availability of campsites on the shore for overnight trips make this lake stand out.
Shade-giving pine trees, sparkly blue lagoon water, and bumpy cliffs make this place even more unique. A depth of only 10 feet means that children and beginners can enjoy this wild beauty.
It is a perfect family venture spent out in nature, unwinding from city life’s stress and chaos. It won’t get better than this.
Pros
The lake is perfect for canoeing and kayaking
Camping opportunities
Soothing and peaceful setting
Lovely picniciking Area
Cons
Remote area
Weather dependent
Nearby Attractions
Mount Bachelor
Todd Lake
Must Do Things
Camping along the shore
Capturing the stunning scenery
Facilities
Camping areas along the shore
Henry Hagg Lake
Henry Hagg Lake is a convenient, no-wake, artificial lake for novice anglers, paddlers, and families with small children. It is located in northwest Oregon, with an area of about 4.67 km2.
It has a 15-mile trail for biking and a 15-mile-long shoreline.
En route, this lake offers wildlife viewing and year-round fishing. Private picnic points, boat ramps, and fishing docks are also an attraction to this place.
Pros
Offers a diverse range of recreational activities
Fishing opportunities
Offers beautiful views
Cons
Entrance fees to access the lake
Nearby Attractions
Scoggins Valley Park
Must Do Things
Campground at Gales Creek
Hiking
Fishing
Facilities
Private picnic areas
Boat ramps for easy access to the lake
Hood River
Hood River is located at the junction of Hood River and Columbia River. It has many lakes and rivers surrounding it. It is well-reputed for kiteboarding and kayaking. The best times to visit it are summer and early fall.
It has a George paddling center, Hood River SUP, and kayak, facilitating a great day at the river.
Whether you want a thrilling kayaking experience in the riveting river currents or a peaceful paddle in the calm water surrounding the river, you won’t be let down.
Pros
Water sports hub
Versatile paddling experiences
Cons
Weather conditions
Nearby Attractions
Columbia River Gorge
Must Do Things
Enjoy the ideal conditions offered during summers
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable time on the water
Facilities
Facilities like the George Paddling Center
Offering kayak rentals and services
White Salmon River
White Salmon River falls from the glacier of Mt. Adams and is spread over 44 miles. White Salmon River’s water is crys, often rapid, id waters and is best for experienced rafters and kayakers.
The gradient is 75 fpm, and the difficulty is Class III–IV (depending on flow).
The experience is raw and close to nature as a forest surrounds it; there’s no internet connection, and the shoreline and the woods are inaccessible.
It is renowned for Husum Falls, the largest waterfall commercially run in the United States, an excellent test for experienced kayakers.
Pros
Known for Husum Falls
Crystal clear waters
Thrilling white water rapids
Cons
Not suitable for beginners
Weather dependent
Nearby Attractions
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Must Do Things
Enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking
Facilities
Wide range of biodiversity
Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island is spread over 11,643 acres and is best for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and hiking. If you want a beautiful mountain view, remember to stop by Sturgeon Lake.
It has so many places to explore, like the most miniature lighthouse, Warrior Rock Lighthouse, and Fort William. It is approximately a 50-mile trip to circumnavigate Sauvie Island by kayak.
Pros
Sauvie Island features interesting historical sites
The island caters to various outdoor activities
Kayaking can go on and on for miles
Nearby Attractions
Scappoose Bay
Must Do Things
Hiking and Nature Walks
Cycling
Facilities
Public Restrooms
Restrooms
Ross Island
Ross Island is a magical place to view the stunning skyline of Portland. There is no better place to view the city lights and skyline than Ross Island.
This privately owned refuge for canoers and kayakers is right in downtown Portland’s heart. Housing over 100 species of birds and sporting a large cove, this 5-mile loop should be on everyone’s list.
Pros
The island features a large cove
Home to over 100 species of birds
Provide scenic views of Portland
Cons
The island's private status may restrict certain activities
Ross Island is privately owned
limiting public access and use
Nearby Attractions
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Must Do Things
Explore the island by canoe or kayak
Facilities
Clean atmosphere due to greenery
Fort Stevens
Fort Stevens is a popular military-turned-state park in Oregon spread over 4,200 acres.
This kayaking hotspot also has other water activities like swimming to cater to everyone’s choice.
One of its major attractions is the historic fort and shipwreck, exploring various habitats and trails for biking and hiking, which cover 9 and 6 miles, respectively.
Pros
Fort Stevens offers the opportunity to explore a historic fort
Diverse outdoor activities
Water adventures
Cons
Weather conditions
Limited amenities
Nearby Attractions
Swash Lake Bridge
Must Do Things
Swimming
Hiking
Biking
Facilities
Restrooms and shower
Campground
Picnic areas
Clear Lake
Clear Lake is a small lake in the Cascades that covers an area of about 142 acres and has an average depth of 175 ft. As its name implies, it is well-known for its clear cold water.
The place offers plenty of room for adventure, with trails nearby for hiking and wildlife viewing. This place has straightforward navigation with restrooms and places to dine around.
Pros
Surrounded by picturesque landscapes
Adventures activities
Cool and clear waters
Nearby Attractions
Fish Lake:
Must Do Things
Wildlife viewing
Hiking
Facilities
Parking
Picnic areas
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Michael Cowley – writer and photographer
Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine – he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter.
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