Kayaking the Willamette

Let's kayak the Willamette! This is an easy float, even for first timers (like me!) with no rapids or low crossing areas. We will have a smooth paddle downstream on the Willamette from Independence to your choice of two stopping points: Mark Lloyd Park (4 miles) or Wallace Marine Park (12 miles).

Check out details and photos of the kayaks, which are a sit-on-top style great for beginners. Rental includes the kayak, paddle, life jacket, 5L drybag, water access permit, and transportation of the kayak.

Details - Start at Independence Riverview Park with two end point options:

1. A 4 mile trip (~1.5 hours) with pick up at Mark Lloyd Park near South Salem or
2. A 12 mile trip (~4-5 hours) with pick up at Wallace Marine Park in West Salem. I would love to explore the slough near Salem's Riverfront Park at the end of the paddle (if I have the energy!)

Check out the Willamette Water Trail guide for more info about the route.

***This event will require a lot of coordination so please only RSVP if you truly intend to go. Watch you email for inquires and updates so we can successfully coordinate the event*** RSVPs close 9/13/23.

Tickets - $60 flat rate includes drop-off and pick up (of the kayak only). Please call Independence Kayak Rentals (503) 420-2196 and ask to book a kayak as part of the group (under Melanie); do not book online. Book your kayak for a 10am departure time. McKenzie has been working with me so feel free to ask for him for assistance.

Logistics - Let's meet at Wallace Marine Park at 9am to carpool to Independence, with a stop at Mark Floyd Park to leave a car(s) for those taking the 4-mile paddle. Please indicate in Comments if you are taking the 4-mile or 12-mile paddle and if you can drive so we can coordinate transportation. The rental operation transports only the kayaks, not the people; please read pickup/drop off info.

Independence Kayak Rentals may cancel the event if the water is too rough, which sometimes occurs at the change of seasons. If so, the update will be posted here and via email, and you will receive a refund from IKR.