year-round – Page 2 – Oregon Paddling

Leaburg Dam at McKenzie River

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Enjoy this no-wake flatwater portion of the beautiful McKenzie River at Leaburg Dam and the photo-ops of the iconic covered bridge known as Goodpasture Bridge. Leaburg Dam is located only 22 miles east of Springfield and is used by EWEB to provide hydroelectric power to some Eugene homes.

There are two public launch sites along this stretch of the river from Leaburg Dam to Goodpasture Bridge. The boat ramp next to Lloyd Knox Park is the favored starting point for an out-and-back paddle, going against the mild current first and then getting a little boost on the return. The Goodpasture Boat Ramp is located on the other end, very close to the Goodpasture Covered Bridge.

Good to Know:

The cellular signal is poor or fair.
The water is always cold here, so this is probably not the best choice for first-timers or someone who is prone to falling in. In the warmest months of July and August, for example, you can anticipate water temperatures in the low 60’s.
There is a waterway restriction of slow no-wake 5mph for this entire route.

Launch Sites:

Lloyd Knox Park

Parking fee: none
Launch type: boat ramp, gradual shore
Restrooms: vault
Open: year round

McKenzie River Leaburg Dam parking — gravel parking lot and bathroom

Leaburg Dam launch site McKenzie River — gravel parking lot and bathroom

Driving Directions:

From OR-126, turn at Leaburg Dam Road and cross over the 1-lane bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn left into the small gravel parking lot next to to the dam.

Goodpasture Boat Ramp

Parking fee: none
Launch type: boat ramp
Restrooms: vault

Goodpasture Covered Bridge at McKenzie River Leaburg Dam — facing Leaburg Dam

Additional things to do:

Visit the Leaburg fish hatchery, which is located next to the dam.
Enjoy a picnic at Lloyd Knox Park that is also maintained by EWEB.

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.

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

Check the flow: This is usually an easy out-and-back paddle during the months of April to October when the flow is less than 5000 cfs. (It has been noted, however, that this paddle can get difficult going upstream when it is> 12,000 cfs.)

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.

Alton Baker Canoe Canal

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The Alton Baker canoe canal is a side channel of the Willamette River in Eugene, OR which allows for a fun out-and-back paddle without the rapids. Situated just across from the Autzen stadium where the Oregon Ducks play, this place is a popular in-town option for those seeking a quick paddle and connection with nature. And it is a suitable paddling spot for first-timers and families with children.

Good to Know:

It can get busy in the summertime with -SUP’ers, kayakers, and anglers- but it is just large enough to find your space here (and parking).
Although it is open year-round, the best times to paddle here are usually May-October.
Cellular reception is good.

Canoe Launch

Parking fee: none
Launch type: primitive bank
Restrooms: none
Open: year-round

This parking lot can hold ~35-40 cars. Locate the canoe launch sign and a short gravel and dirt path leading to the canoe canal access.

Driving Directions:

Navigate to Leo Harris Parkway and locate the small gravel lot located directly across the street from the Autzen Stadium “O.”

parking lot entrance — entrance to parking lot

Canoe canal parking lot — entrance to parking lot

Alton Baker Park Duck Ponds

Parking fee: none
Restrooms: flush toilets on west side of Day Island Road (across the street)
Open: year-round

duck pond at Alton Baker park — alternate launch from duck ponds at Alton Baker park

Driving Directions:

Park near the disc golf course at Alton Baker Park off Day Island Road and start at the duck ponds. This is a larger parking lot and it is near restrooms but there is about a 100-yard walk from the parking lot to the pond and the paddle from here involves 2 portages.

Alton Baker canoe canal — opening up to the pond

Additional things to do:

There are plenty of other things to do at Alton Baker park if you want to make an entire day of it. One really cool and unique feature is the solar system placed to scale along a multi-use path. You would start at the large model of a Sun at the park and then continue along the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System (South Bank path) until you get to Pluto about 3.5 miles away.

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.

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

Water flow: The nearby Willamette River generally flows at below 4000 cfs during the summer months which allows for an easy paddle at the canal. At much higher flows, such as when it is >12,000 cfs, the current can be quite swift.

check water flow

Questions: contact Willamalane Park District at 503-434-7463

Game Days: Note that the canoe launch parking lot is located right across the street from Autzen stadium, which makes it inaccessible during Oregon Ducks games and Emeralds events. You may consider the alternate launch from the Alton Baker Park duck pond when this parking is inaccessible. Check the Ducks game schedule and the Emeralds schedule (season is April to Sept).

Concerts at Cuthbert: Parking can also be difficult when there are events at Cuthbert Amphitheater. Here is the schedule of events.

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

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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

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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

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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.

Freeway Lakes

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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

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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.

Triangle Lake

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Triangle Lake is a 293-acre natural lake in the Coast Range that sits at just less than 700 ft elevation. In contrast to the lakes of the Cascades Range which were formed from volcanic activity, Triangle Lake was likely formed from a landslide of the steep sandstone walls which impounded the existing streamflow. Loon Lake near Reedsport, OR was likely formed in a similar fashion.

This is a busy place in the summertime, where motorboats and water-skiers buzz around producing wake that reverberates off the triangular shaped boundaries of the lake. Paddlers may have opportunities to enjoy quieter paddles, however, in the mornings and outside of the prime season.

Good to know:

The parking lot has about 16 spaces, most are large trailer spaces.
Available year-round.
The water at Triangle Lake warms up earlier than the lakes on the east side of Willamette Valley.
The cellular signal was poor here.
Vault restrooms are available.

Driving Directions:

Please note that this is not the Triangle Lake in Mt. Hood National Forest.

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.

Parking: Purchase your day use pass or annual pass before you go at the Lane County parks website . The cellular signal is very poor at this location, so you may not be able to pay online when you get there. There is a cash pay option though.

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

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.

Willamette River at Ross Island

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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.

Tualatin River

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The Tualatin River starts in the Coast Range and takes a sinuous path eastward through farmlands, wetlands, and urban areas. The stretch from Hillsboro to West Linn, almost 40 river miles, has been designated a National Water Trail with multiple access points. On a typical summer or fall day, the current is slow enough along this stretch to be paddled easily in either direction.

You can enjoy this water trail by starting at any one of the Tualatin or surrounding area locations described here. Most of these spots are quite busy during the summer due to the convenient in-town locations. You can expect to see many kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and floaties out on the water. Also, families with kids and first-timers should feel comfortable here.

Good to Know:

During the rainy season, watch for increased flow which can create dangerous logjams.
Boating restrictions on this stretch of Tualatin River: no towed watersports.
Locations with summer rentals: Cook Park and Brown’s Ferry Park.
There is a diversion dam located just south of the I-205 overpass that should be avoided. It has been associated with some dangerous incidents and should be avoided.
There is a shallow area near Fanno Creek which may require a short portage over the rocks (between Cook Park and Tualatin Community Park).

Be prepared for a longer walk (about 1/4 mile) to access some of the launch sites, such as at Browns Ferry Park, Jurgens Park, and Farmington Landing.

Gallery:

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 check the wind conditions.

Get the map: The Tualatin Riverkeepers provides an interactive map and a downloadable map showing the navigable sections of the water trail as well as amenities at different access points.

River obstructions: Check the Tualatin Riverkeepers page for river safety tips and reported obstructions.

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.