Willamette Falls

This is an awesome place to go kayaking & not far from Portland. Every kayaker who lives in the area should check it out at least once.

Please note that we will be launching from the south end of the parking lot, at eNRG Kayaking/Sportcraft Marina, not the boat launch at the north end of the parking lot.

It's an easy paddle up to the falls & back, as long as we pay attention to the current. Yes it looks like it could be rough, but as long as you don't venture up too close to the falls, it's really fairly tame. There's just a relatively mild current from the launch area up to the falls that gets stronger on the left side of the river as we make our way upstream.

I have extra kayaks I can bring for people who don't have their own, as well as a tandem inflatable, which is even easier for people with little to no experience. A donation of just $25-40 is requested when you use one of my kayaks, but if you are facing financial hardship please let me know. If you need a kayak, just make a request in a post, and then be sure to message me and remain in good communication to confirm your attendance.

If you are interested in local history, Willamette Falls has quite a bit of that as well. Some of the animals we might see include great blue herons, ospreys, and possibly sea lions or sturgeons.

In terms of dressing for the weather. I like to cover up on hot, sunny days with a big hat and quick-dry clothing that covers my arms & legs. You can always get wet to stay cool. Swimming (including rescue practice, if anyone's interested) could be a possibility, depending on how hot it gets. Also, having a change of shoes & pants/shorts for afterward is always a good idea.

Please support our group and consider making a small $10 donation once per season to support the annual meetup expenses and other costs. Cash or venmo donation @Portland-Kayaking to pay for gas, equipment, organizing, safety, instruction, etc.

Participation in this and other events is at your own risk. We plan safe paddles and make every effort to help keep people safe and comfortable, but by taking part in any Portland Kayaking Community event, you acknowledge that you are ultimately responsible for your own safety. and absolve organizers of any legal responsibilities for your personal decisions, medical conditions, unforeseen dangers, accidents, etc.