Welcome to Portland: where urban adventure meets natural beauty.
Have you ever considered discovering the best places to paddleboard in Portland?
Embrace the tranquility of the Pacific Northwest as we navigate the city’s stunning waterways.
Let’s go explore, are you ready to embark on a Portland paddling journey?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Portland
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Willamette River
- ️Location Type: River
- Access Point: Sellwood Riverfront Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate current, calm to moderate wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Geese, ducks, osprey, fish
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Portland skyline, bridges, riverside parks
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, follow waterway rules
The Willamette River stretches through the heart of Portland, offering paddlers stunning views of the city skyline and iconic bridges.
Launch from Sellwood Riverfront Park and enjoy peaceful stretches while admiring nature and urban scenery.
#2 Columbia River
- ????️ ️Location Type: River
- Access Point: Hayden Island at Lotus Isle Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Strong currents, windier conditions
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, fish, waterfowl
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Mount Hood, marine traffic, river islands
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of strong currents and boat traffic, use caution in windy conditions
Paddling on the Columbia River offers a more challenging but rewarding experience. With Mount Hood in the distance and massive ships passing by, this spot showcases the unique beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Make sure to take appropriate safety precautions due to stronger currents and wind.
#3 Ross Island
- ????️ ️ Location Type: River
- Access Point: Willamette Park Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate currents, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Geese, ducks, herons, fish
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Ross Island, wetland habitat
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Mind river traffic, respect wildlife habitats and private property
Circumnavigate Ross Island located in the Willamette River, surrounded by wetland habitats. This spot offers calmer conditions and great bird-watching opportunities.
Be respectful of wildlife and private property as you embark on this unique urban paddling experience.
#4 Vancouver Lake
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Vancouver Lake Regional Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, some wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, fish
- ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, Mount Adams
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Wear life jackets, be prepared for possible wind conditions
Located just north of Portland, Vancouver Lake provides a perfect spot for a more tranquil paddle boarding experience.
With views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams, this location is perfect for those looking for a relaxing day on the water, taking in the stunning surroundings.
#5 Tualatin River
- ????️ ️Location Type: River
- Access Point: Cook Park (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle current, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Herons, beavers, turtles, fish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Dense forests, wetlands
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of private property, respect wildlife
The Tualatin River offers a serene and picturesque paddling experience. With dense forests and wetlands, this river offers ample opportunities to spot wildlife and experience a quiet, scenic journey.
A paddle down the Tualatin River provides a friendly escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
#6 Hagg Lake
- ????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- Access Point: Boat Launch Area A (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, some wind possible
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Deer, ducks, fish
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Forested hillsides, picturesque shoreline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Boat traffic awareness, follow lake rules
Hagg Lake, nestled in the forested hills southwest of Portland, offers a picturesque and peaceful paddling spot.
Surrounded by lush green hills and a wooded shoreline, this scenic mountain lake provides a tranquil escape from the city and close encounters with nature.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Portland?
Popular paddle boarding spots in Portland include the Willamette River, Columbia River Gorge, and the Tualatin River.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Portland?
No, there is no requirement to register paddle boards in Portland.
When is the best time to paddle board in Portland?
The optimal time for paddle boarding in Portland is during the summer months when temperatures are warmest.
