Spring is the perfect time to head to Mt. Hood Territory's refreshing rivers. There are endless potential adventures on the water, and you might not be taking advantage of some of the most fun class IV rapids closest to Portland… but you should be!
With plenty of outfitters and guides to choose from in The Territory, it’s time to start practicing, or showing off your skills, as you navigate your way down the rapids of our amazing rivers.
Here’s a selection of some of our awesome guides to help you craft your perfect trip.
Take a trip down the Clackamas River or paddle down the Willamette River to scenic and historic Willamette Falls, where Indigenous tribes still fish for lamprey today. Even if you’ve never been paddling before, eNRG Kayaking offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals and classes, plus kayak fishing instruction at Clackamette Park. They also have seasonal rentals out of Willamette Park in West Linn.
eNRG Kayaking now offers guided excursions from Oregon City to Milwaukie, their John McLoughlin Discovery Paddle. Trace the "Father of Oregon's" footsteps and set foot on unique river islands along the way.
Explore the Wild & Scenic Clackamas River or head out on the Sandy River with Blue Sky Rafting, experienced guides since 1997. With them, you'll enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting for groups and families, from beginner to advanced levels. Book a half or full day excursion that is just a quick drive from Portland.
Alder Creek Rentals has numerous places throughout the region where you can pick up kayaks, paddleboards and canoes, including George Rogers Park in Lake Oswego. From there you can take a peaceful paddle on the Willamette River. If you want a guided experience, you can tour the nearby islands, each one a scenic stop filled with flora and fauna. They also offer classes for both kids or adults looking to get into the sport.
Clackamas River Outfitters rents stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and tandem kayaks for a fun time with friends. For the full experience, book their Estacada Lake Twilight Tour or up the ante by negotiating Clackamas River rapids on a stand-up paddleboard during a guided excursion from Milo McIver State Park. In addition to their Estacada Outpost Store & Rentals in downtown Estacada, they have seasonal locations at Timber Park (Estacada Lake location) and Milo McIver State Park with access to Estacada Lake and the Lower Clackamas River. Make sure to check their website for when rentals are by reservation only.
The options for adventure are plentiful with Oregon River Experiences. Choose from full day or half day excursions on the Upper Clackamas River, where you'll shoot through class III rapids. Or if you're looking for a calmer experience, take the three-hour Lower Clackamas River trip that still gives you a burst of adrenaline with class II water.
Northwest Whitewater Adventures celebrates human power and the natural environment by offering exhilarating group or family whitewater rafting trips and personal boater training. Full and half day rafting trips on the Clackamas River are available. Call for group discounts.
