speed restrictions – Page 2

Crane Prairie Reservoir

Skip ahead to check conditions

Crane Prairie Reservoir is located just above Wickiup Reservoir along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and less than an hour’s drive from Bend. The name aptly describes its former existence of flat prairie land that attracted a large population of cranes each year when the Deschutes River flooded the area. This shallow reservoir contributes water for irrigation and when it is full has an average depth of only 11 ft.

There are 23 miles of shoreline including several deep feeder creeks to explore. Views of wildlife are abundant here- osprey, bald eagles, pelicans, and herons, to name a few- as are the views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top in the background. This is also a very popular location for fishing.

Beginners can paddle here but should be mindful of the prevailing wind conditions and watch out for the plentiful underwater tree snags.

Good to know:

The entire lake is restricted to 10 mph.
Open after the lake thaws out and road access is cleared, usually May to October.
The water level is kept high in order to protect the Oregon spotted frog habitat.
Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem, esp. June-early August
Check for toxic algae blooms as this reservoir has been known to get them.
The cellular signal is fair.

Directions:

There are four US Forest Service campgrounds with boat access and an additional boating access point as well as a private resort. The links on this map can provide more details.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast for the area and check the wind conditions.

Check: for water advisories.

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Beware that the routes and information on this site are just general guides and the best path may vary based on water level, obstructions, experience level, equipment, and other conditions. Paddlers are responsible for providing their own safety. Super Water Trails does not assume any liability.

Siltcoos River

Skip ahead to check conditions

The Siltcoos River Water Trail takes you from the largest lake on Oregon’s coast, through towering sand dunes and forests and brings you to a special stretch of ocean where snowy plovers nest on protected beaches. Along the way, there are tricky logjams that challenge your skills of Twister and a dam portage with a kayak slide (you know, for grownups). Sound interesting enough?

There is very little elevation change along the length of the Siltcoos River, so the current is usually mild enough that it can be paddled in either direction even for beginners. The wind can be a factor though, especially in the afternoons near the ocean and at Siltcoos Lake.

This is a popular river trail so you will likely encounter other kayakers and paddleboarders on the water (and also river otters).

Good to Know:

Beware that if the dam is open, such as during the rainy season October -May, the faster river flows can make the log strainers quite dangerous and should be avoided.
Preferably, time your paddle so that you reach the beach at or near high tide to avoid bottoming out for that last mile.
Standup paddleboarders, consider using shorter river fins to paddle the lower section from the dam to the ocean.
During the protected snowy plover season (March 15- Sep 15), beach access is limited to just the wet sand and dogs are not allowed to get out on the beach at all.
Cellular reception is poor here. Consider downloading a map prior to going out.

Highlights from Lake to Ocean:

Additional things to do:

Camping- Get an early start on the Siltcoos River. Tyee Campground and Waxmyrtle Campground have access to the Siltcoos River.
Fishing and more paddling at Siltcoos Lake
Hiking- get nice views of the Siltcoos River and access the beach on the Waxmyrtle trail

Check before you go:

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Weather– Check the weather forecast for the area and consider the wind conditions.

Tides-Tidal reports should be consulted to make sure there is enough water depth to navigate the lower portion. Premium members on the SWT Planner App can get timing recommendations. Also, watch for very high tides that may affect your passage through the logjams.

Parking fees– For Westlake, you can purchase the Lane County parks day pass online or at a local vendor, or use the self-pay envelopes at the park. For Lodgepole and Waxmyrtle, purchase a NW Forest day pass online or buy at a local vendor.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Carter Lake

Skip ahead to check conditions

Carter Lake is a small coastal dune lake located just 11 miles south of Florence. There is a 10mph speed restriction for the entire lake which makes this a great beginners or family-friendly lake. You can paddle around 2 miles of shoreline. The major factor to watch for is that it can get very windy here when the wind picks up and it usually blows in from the north in summer. The water appears quite clear and is nice for swimming, too.

There is a day use area with a small sandy beach tucked away in the Carter Lake campground. It has a few parking spots but requires the NW Forest Pass or equivalent. The nearest restrooms and water are located within the campground itself. The boat ramp for Carter Lake is located on the opposite side of the lake and can be reached off of the Highway 101, south of the Carter Lake campground.

Good to know:

By late summer in dry years, the water level may get too low to paddle the entire length.
The campground and day use area is open 5/1-9/30.
The boat ramp off Hwy 101 is open year-round.
Carter Lake is managed by the Siuslaw National Forest division.
The cellular reception here is poor.

Directions:

The Carter Lake day use area is located within the Carter Lake campground. Drive to the end of the loop to the small day use parking lot.

The Carter Lake boat ramp is located directly off Hwy 101, south of the campground entrance.

Additional things to do:

Stay at the Carter Lake campground where you may get a spot that backs up to sand dunes or, if you can manage the steep access, you can get a spot overlooking the water.

Check before you go:

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind. A lot of summer afternoons typically have northern winds which can whip through this lake.

Park status: Check on the Carter campground area status.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Lake Marie

Skip ahead to check conditions

Lake Marie is a sweet little coastal lake located near Winchester Bay. With only a 1-mile long shoreline and the absence of motorized boats, Lake Marie is suitable for early beginners and paddling with children. There is also a small beach area near the parking lot, a 1 mile tree-covered hiking trail around the lake, and the nearby lighthouse to keep everyone in the group busy.

The water is clear and warms up enough for swimming in the summertime. This lake might also be an option if the conditions are not optimal for paddling at one of the larger nearby lakes or river.

Good to know:

Watch for woody debris and snags, especially near the shore line.
The cellular reception is good or very good here.
Similar to other small lakes in the area, expect water temperatures in the low 50s during the winter and low to mid 70s in the summer.

Directions:

Navigate to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park from Hwy 101. Continue to parking near Lake Marie Trailhead.

Additional things to do:

Stay at the Umpqua Lighthouse SP campground which not only has tent and RV sites, but also cabins and deluxe yurts. There are some trails leading from the campground to the lake.
Hike around Lake Marie which is only 1 mile, plenty of shade for sunny hot days, and plenty of views of the lake.
Tour the Umpqua River Lighthouse which is managed by the Umpqua Valley Museums.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind.

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Eel Lake

Skip ahead to check conditions

Eel Lake is a 347-acre coastal lake near Reedsport that is made up of two long and deep arms outlined by the forested slopes of the Coast Range. There is no need to dodge speeding boats or consult tide tables for this one. It is actually the largest coastal lake in Oregon where there is a 10mph speed restriction for the entire lake. And there are about 11 miles of undeveloped forested shoreline to explore on these clear waters.

This is a beginner-friendly lake under most conditions. The main limitation for paddlers would be the strong winds that can start as early as noon. You may be able to use it to your advantage, however, to assist on your return (for winds coming from the north in the summertime). There are also plenty of coves to duck into to avoid the stronger gusts and provide some interesting exploration.

This is also a family-friendly location due to all of the amenities at the Tugman State Park Day Use Area. There are restrooms, a swimming beach, large grassy area for picnics and games, and a playground.

Length: ~3 mi RT left arm, ~5 mi RT rt arm
Paddle Time: ~1h 12min left arm, ~ 2H + rt arm*

Parking fee: free
Launch: boat ramp, ADA accessible kayak launch, shore

Restroom: flush
Cell signal: fair

*Time is roughly based on leisurely paddling pace of 2.5mph. Wind, current, equipment, and paddler’s fitness and motivation can change this estimate.

Good to know:

You won’t find any eels at Eel Lake. Apparently, eels are not found in Oregon but there are lamprey. You can learn more about the lamprey migration for spawning at the Eel Lake Trap structure at the day use area.
Winds pick up after noon, especially from the north in summertime.
There is a 10mph speed restriction at this lake

Paddle Route:

From the boat launch, head left to go up the shorter arm where you will see some old pilings remnants at the end. Or head right to go up the longer arm on the right. You will pass the small swimming and sandy beach area , then turn left(north) to continue up the arm.

Directions:

GPS coordinates for Eel Lake at Tugman State Park Day Use Area: 43.60398, -124.17691

Additional things to do:

Check out the fish ladder and special lamprey ramp at the Eel Lake Dam.

Hike or bike on the 3-mile length dirt trail- find the trailhead to the right (east) of the Eel Lake Trap structure.
Camp at Tugman State Park campground– there are sites for tents, RVs, and yurts; access the lake via a short walk or drive from the campground to the adjacent day use area.

Check before you go:

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

map download

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind forecast.

Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.

Prepare accordingly for the water temperature. According to the Oregon State Parks information, the water is typically 50F-55F in winter and 67-71F in summer.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Coffenbury Lake at Fort Stevens

Skip ahead to check conditions

Coffenbury Lake is a natural dune lake located within Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton where you can spend a day or a week here. Just within the state park, you can paddle at the lake, hike or ride your bike to a beach with a shipwreck, visit a historic military fort and battery, and play on a 23-hole disc golf course with beautiful views of the Columbia River. It’s a unique combination for sure, but it checks all the boxes.

Beginners and first-timers should feel comfortable paddling on this narrow lake where the shoreline is never far away and there is a 10mph speed limit. You will see mostly other kayaks, SUPs, and canoes at this lake. Also, this shallow lake does warm up in the summer for swimming.

Coffenbury Lake has a North and South Day use area. Both have ample paved parking, boat ramp and dock and shoreline access to water. The South day use lot, however, has more picnic tables near the shore.

Length: ~2 miles
Paddle Time: <1 h*

Parking fee: day use fee at kiosk or Oregon State Parks pass or camping reservation
Launch: boat ramp, dock, shallow entry

Restroom: flush
Cell signal: fair

*Time is roughly based on leisurely paddling pace of 2.5mph. Wind, current, equipment, and paddler’s fitness and motivation can change this estimate.

Good to know:

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance here, with peak activity around June-July.
Open year-round

Directions:

Once you enter Fort Stevens State Park on Peter Iredale Road, pass the campgrounds, then turn left for Coffenbury Lake Day Use Area. Continue straight ahead for North Day Use Area or turn left to drive further down to South Day Use Area.

Additional things to do:

Seaside is just a 20-minute drive south and you can walk along the promenade, watch the bubble guy do his thing, visit the aquarium, paddle on the river trails, and eat at some good restaurants.
Reserve a site at Fort Stevens State Park campground for your next camping trip. As one of the nation’s largest campgrounds, there is enough to see and do for days. There are sites for RVs, tents, yurts, and even deluxe cabins.

Check before you go:

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind conditions.

Parking fee: if you are planning a visit to the park for just the day, consider purchasing the Oregon State Parks annual pass beforehand. You can use the pass for paddling at some excellent places such as Estacada Lake at Milo McIver SP, Cleawox Lake at Jessie M. Honeyman SP, and Lake Billy Chinook at Cove Palisades SP, just to name a few.

Mosquitoes– this site gives the schedule for mosquito control at Fort Stevens State Park.

Toxic algae blooms: This temporary condition occurs at some of the area lakes in the summer and may affect your health if water or fish is consumed during these conditions. Get more info on how to tell if algae is harmful and watch for water advisories but also use common sense if you see water that doesn’t look right.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Hosmer Lake

Skip ahead to check conditions

Hosmer Lake at 4997 ft elevation is one of the natural alpine lakes located along the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway, just 36 miles west of Bend. The small gravel parking lot serving this incredibly popular paddling and fly-fishing only lake fills up early and there is often a bottleneck at the launch site. Once you get onto the water though, there is more space to spread out, the views are spectacular, and everyone has a good time.

At Hosmer Lake, you can take in the views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top above and follow the fish (Atlantic salmon, brook trout, and rainbow trout) swimming in the clear water below you. The journey is just as rewarding as the views as you paddle from one part of the lake, then through a winding channel that opens into a hidden second part of the lake and finally into the shallow creek that flows into the lake.

This is a beginner-friendly paddle as long as it is not too windy. The average depth of this lake is only 3 ft (maximum of 12 ft) but be aware that the lake floor is muddy and peaty.

Good to know:

Electric motors are allowed on this lake, restricted to 10 mph.
Best times to visit are June to October
Mosquitoes can be a problem, esp. July-early August
Get there early as parking can fill up
Watch out for strong winds, especially in the afternoons
The cellular signal is fair.

In order of appearance: Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and South Sister

Directions:

From Bend, take Century Drive (FS Road 46) which becomes the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. After passing Mt. Bachelor, go to about MP 35 and turn left at sign for Hosmer(4625).

South Campground has a day use area gravel parking lot and boat ramp. There is a US Forest day use fee for this location, but no vending kiosk on site.

Additional things to do:

Reserve your spot at Hosmer Lake at South Campground or Mallard Marsh campground. South Campground has the boat launch/day use area and Mallard Marsh has a trail access to the lake.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast for the area and check the wind conditions.

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Freeway Lakes

Skip ahead to check conditions

The Freeway Lakes is a chain of three connected lakes fed by Oak Creek in Albany, Oregon. This is the site where construction materials were harvested in the making of the I-5 freeway in the late 1950’s. Today, the Freeway Lakes is a convenient, no-frills fishing or paddling spot managed by the Linn County Parks. This would be considered a beginner-friendly and kid-friendly paddling spot due to its small size.

Good to know:

The parking lot is a gravel lot.
This place is open year-round.
Cell signal is good here
There is a vault restroom on site

Directions:

Additional things to do:

Consider a visit to Cheadle Lake, also a small-sized lake, which is 12 mi away in Lebanon, OR.

Another small lake located in Albany is Waverly Lake. It is only 10 acres in size but you can rent paddleboards and kayaks to try out there.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast for the area and check the wind conditions.

windy weather

Toxic algae blooms: This temporary condition occurs at some of the area lakes in the summer and may affect your health if water or fish is consumed during these conditions. Get more info on how to tell if algae is harmful and watch for water advisories but also use common sense if you see water that doesn’t look right.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Silverton Reservoir

Skip ahead to check conditions

Silverton Reservoir, also known as Silver Creek Reservoir, is located in the foothills east of Salem and under an hours’ drive for many Portlanders. Despite its small size, this 65-acre earth and rock fill reservoir receives a steady flow of visitors on nice days.

This is a beginner-friendly spot for a calm paddle as gas motorboats are not allowed on Silverton Reservoir. The park has a few picnic tables, a very small beach area, docks, boat ramp, and a fishing pier.

Good to know:

Parking fee is $5 (pay kiosk on site) or with city of Silverton pass
In the summer, you may have to get there as early as 9am to get a coveted parking spot.
Be aware of the signs posted for parking. If you park illegally, the Silverton PD will find you and issue you a ticket.
The cellular signal is average here.
There are flush restrooms on site.

view of Silverton Reservoir launch area and dam — launch and day use area

Driving Directions:

Additional things to do:

If you get there and the parking lot is full and you really want to find water for paddling, consider going to either Turner Lake or Mission Lake. Both are small lakes within 1/2 hour drive. Day use fees apply to each place.
Hike the Trail of Ten Falls at nearby Silver Falls State Park.

Check before you go:

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind forecast.

Check hours and other info on the city of Silverton website

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.

Willamette River at Ross Island

Skip ahead to check conditions

Ross Island is a popular urban paddle destination on the Willamette River. Portland locals and visitors alike enjoy this convenient location. On any given day you may be sharing the busy waters with boaters, water-skiers, and the local rowing club.

This route starts and ends at Sellwood Riverfront Park. You could also start at Willamette Park, which is located a little closer to Ross Island.

Good to Know:

Be prepared to walk about 150 yards from the Sellwood Riverfront parking lot to the boat dock.
The best times to visit for a beginner-level paddle would generally be April-October.
At higher flow conditions, assess your ability and reserve some energy for the return as you would be paddling upstream on the way back.
The cellular reception here is very good or excellent.

boat dock at Sellwood Park — Sellwood dock and beach

houseboats near Ross Island — Sellwood dock and beach

Driving Directions:

Check Before You Go:

Maps and Suggested Routes: Download or print out a map before you go from the SWT Planner App. As a premium member, you can access an ever-growing library of paddling-related maps and suggested routes.

Weather: Check the weather forecast and pay attention to the wind.

Recent heavy rains?– check the Big Pipe status and avoid the Willamette River in this area if there is sewer overflow.

Toxic algae blooms: This temporary condition occurs at some of the area lakes in the summer and may affect your health if water or fish is consumed during these conditions. Get more info on how to tell if algae is harmful and watch for water advisories but also use common sense if you see water that doesn’t look right.

Water Temperature: Read the cold water safety page if you need more background info.

Inspect your watercraft. You can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by wiping off any vegetation or debris from your watercraft and making sure it is dry each time before entering a new waterway.

PFD, Whistle, and Waterway Access Permit: In Oregon, all paddlecraft 10′ or longer (including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes) require a permit. You can purchase the permit online.