Summer On The Water With eNRG Kayaking
When the Willamette River sparkles under the summer sun and the majestic Willamette Falls roars in the background, Oregon City is a top tier spot to paddle near Portland. This season, eNRG Kayaking offers a lineup of summer events that combine the thrill of kayaking with music, wellness, community, education and adventure for seasoned paddlers and beginners alike.
These events fill up quickly, so it's wise to book your spot early. All necessary equipment is provided, and no previous kayaking experience is required for most events. Just bring your sense of adventure, sunscreen and a water bottle, and let the friendly team at eNRG Kayaking take care of the rest.
Live Music On The Water
Imagine floating on the calm waters of the Willamette River as live music drifts across the surface, the falls providing a dramatic natural backdrop. Live Music on the Water brings together two of summer's greatest pleasures: live music and paddling.
This unique event takes place on select evenings throughout the summer, with musicians performing from an epic canoe while paddlers follow the tunes on a group trip to Willamette Falls. It's a peaceful yet energizing way to experience Oregon City's waterfront. The combination of the river's gentle current, the iconic view of the falls and the soundtrack of local artists creates a dazzling evening.
Details
- When: Select Saturdays in July and August
- Cost: $55 per person or $30 BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)
- Length of Time: 2 hours
- Ages: 8+
Yoga By The River
There's something profoundly centering about practicing yoga riverside. Yoga by the River invites you to enjoy 40 minutes of restorative yoga on the dock followed by 40 minutes of peaceful paddling. Get energized and recap the fun over coffee and tea after.
Details
- When: Select Friday evenings and Saturday mornings June – August
- Cost: $35 per person
- Length of Time: 2 hours
- Ages: 8+
City Nights Paddle
As daylight fades and the city lights begin to twinkle, City Nights Paddle offers a new way to see Oregon City. This evening paddle takes you along the illuminated shoreline where historic buildings reflect in the dark water and the falls create a mesmerizing nighttime spectacle. Guided by knowledgeable staff from eNRG Kayaking, you'll paddle through the calm waters while learning about the area. The cooler evening temperatures make summer paddling more comfortable, and the peaceful atmosphere attracts fewer crowds. Safety lights on each kayak create a beautiful floating procession as your group glides together in the twilight.
Details
- When: Select Saturdays June – September starting at 9:20pm
- Cost: $55 per person or $30/BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)
- Length of Time: 1.5 hours
- Ages: 8+
Ladies Paddle Night
Ladies Paddle Night creates a welcoming space for women to connect, paddle and support each other on the water. This women-only event fosters camaraderie and confidence-building in a relaxed and encouraging environment. Whether you're new to kayaking or an experienced paddler, these evenings provide the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers, share stories and enjoy the river together. The supportive atmosphere makes it easy to ask questions, try new techniques and push beyond your comfort zone.
Details
- When: Select Tuesdays June – September (staggered start times in the evening beginning at 5pm)
- Cost: $20
- Length of Time: 2 hours
- Ages: 5+
Paddle Tours By Willamette Falls
While offered year-round, eNRG Kayaking's guided paddle tours by Willamette Falls happen to make the perfect Oregon summer activity. These tours provide an up-close encounter with Willamette Falls, a natural wonder that has drawn people to its shores for thousands of years. Your guide will navigate you safely through the best viewing areas while sharing fascinating stories about the falls' geology, the historic role it played in Oregon's development and the ongoing restoration efforts to protect this incredible ecosystem. The thundering water, the steady sound of mist and the sheer scale of the falls create an awe-inspiring experience that photos simply can't capture. Soak in the scenery and spot local wildlife like great blue herons, ospreys and river otters.
Details
- Cost: $70 per person
- When: Daily
- Length of Time: 1.5 hours
- Ages: 8+
Find fantastic opportunities to dine, shop and relax in Historic Downtown Oregon City.
Before Or After Your Paddle: Explore Historic Oregon City
Your adventure doesn't have to end when you step out of your kayak. Oregon City's historic downtown offers plenty of options for refueling and exploring.
Where to Eat and Drink
After working up an appetite on the water, you'll find a variety of dining options in the area. The walkable downtown streets are lined with local eateries like the vibey farm-to-table restaurant The Hive Social, craft breweries, food cart pods (right across the street from each other), wine bars and coffee shops where you can toast to your paddling accomplishments.
Where to Stay
If you're making a weekend of your kayaking adventure, the Best Western Plus Rivershore Hotel offers comfortable accommodations right along the Willamette River. The convenient location means you can practically roll out of bed and into your kayak. Many rooms feature river views, and the hotel provides easy access to both the water and downtown attractions. Visit our Places to Stay map for more lodging recommendations.
