Oregon Ocean Paddling Society upcoming events

TO Candidate Navigation Class - On Water Makeup - L2 - T2625 (May 05, 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Full Name:: Will Greenough
Narrative:: This is the on-the-water follow up from the March 21 navigation class. Registration is prioritized for TO's and TO Candidates taking the Navigation Course. Any others interested need to contact TO (Will Greenough) for permission to register.

Participants must have a handheld compass and appropriate NOAA chart for the area. In addition a deck compass on the kayak is highly desirable.

We will launch from Vista Park in Skamokawa and paddle the adjacent area practicing navigation techniques. We will spend significant time at stops doing compass and chart work. Depending on conditions, expect to paddle 7-10 nautical miles while we navigate this interesting and beautiful area. Expect to be back at the launch around 4pm.

We will meet at the parking lot for the boat ramp at Vista Park. The fee for parking is $5 (cash only).
Meeting Time:: 9:00:00 AM
Launch Time:: 10:00:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Skamokawa Vista Park boat ramp
Take out:: Skamokawa Vista Park boat ramp
Route Alternative for bad weather:: TBD
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Drysuit
Primary Organizer:: Will Greenough
Co-Organizer(s)::
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person::
Maximum number of paddlers:: 5
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 65
Estimated Water Temperature:: 50
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 6.5 hours
Tide times & heights:: to be determined by students
Current information:: to be determined by students
Hazards:: Shipping traffic
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 2: Between 0.5 and 1 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments::
Location:: Skamokawa Vista Park boat ramp
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: to be determined by students
Link to map of route (Optional):

May Monthly Meeting - Please join us in welcoming OOPS member Tom Waldron (May 27, 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 01:45:00 GMT

OOPS Friends and soon to be friends. These meetings are open to anyone interested in OOPS.

Please join us May 27 for a presentation on OOPS Basic Skills Presentation by OOPS member Tom Waldron.

This summer, OOPS will be introducing the Basic Skills Certification. The program is voluntary and is designed to introduce basic kayaking skills including the wet exit.

We will meet in-person at the Lucky Lab in Multnomah Village. If you can't make it to the Lucky Lab, you can still join remotely via Zoom. Zoom is subject to technical issues so please be patient with your all volunteer team making these and all OOPS activities possible.

Joining from The Lucky Lab Multnomah Village? We'll be ready for you to join us upstairs at 6:00 for social time. This is also your time to grab food and a beverage (bring your $$, this is a no-host gathering). We'll start with announcements at 6:45, the main presentation at 7:00 and wrap up around 8:00.

Joining from home? We'll open the Zoom room at 6:30 for casual conversation and OOPS updates. We'll start with the main presentation at 7:00 and wrap up around 8:00. If you want to join this way you MUST register at least 48 hours before the meeting or risk not receiving the link to join the meeting. As a backup plan, the Zoom meeting link will be sent to the OOPS listserv one day prior to the meeting.

Accessibility information: Please email us to let us know if you have any accessibility needs and we'll do our best to meet them. Note, the Multnomah Village Lucky Lab has stairs and no elevator to reach the meeting space. There is somewhat limited street parking. Please plan for time to find a place to park. Tri-Met's line 44 drops off right at the Lucky Lab!

Comments, questions, ideas? Send them our way!
Lynn and Andy programs@oopskayak.org

Nehalem Bay 2026 Event (June 25, 2026)

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Nehalem Bay

June 25 - 28, 2026

Paddling days will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday

General registration opens Thursday, March 26th, at 9:30 pm

Trip Organizers who have been approved to lead trips for the Event will be able to register earlier.

Join Nancy, Stacy, Denise and all star Trip Organizers for a weekend at the recently remodeled Nehalem Bay State Park, ideally situated between Nehalem Bay and the ocean. Trip events include lake, river, and bay paddles to accommodate all levels of paddlers on Level 1-3 trips. We might even have an ocean paddle option if conditions are right. There will be something for everyone!

In addition to taking advantage of the paddling trips and classes, folks can explore the area on their own, check out the unique restaurants and shops in the area, and more. Plus we'll have our fabulous OOPS potlucks.

Your Volunteer Staff:

Event Manager: Nancy Hoffman

Trips Admiral: Denise Harrington

Assistant Event Manager: Stacy Ozer

Nehalem Bay Event - Crabbing and Clamming in Nehalem Bay - L2 (June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Full Name:: Mark Niemann-Ross
Narrative:: Nehalem bay features several areas for crabbing and clamming. We'll spend the day learning about catching crab - both with traps and with hand-picking. We'll also see if there are any clams to be had in some of the mud flats. If we're lucky, we'll be the talk of the potluck that evening!

If you wish to just observe, you won't need a license. If you want to actually catch crab and clams, you'll need to buy a permit from ODFW which can be done the night before by cell phone/internet.
Meeting Time:: 6:00:00 AM
Launch Time:: 6:30:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: M3Q8+QP Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Take out:: Same
Route Alternative for bad weather:: cancel
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Farmer John
Primary Organizer:: Mark Niemann-Ross
Co-Organizer(s)::
Has organizer paddled here before?: No
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person::
Maximum number of paddlers:: 6
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 60
Estimated Water Temperature:: 50
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 5
Tide times & heights:: 7:00 am : -0.33 ft (low)
1:24 pm : +5.09 ft (high)
Current information:: 2 knots
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 1: 0-7 knots (8 mph)
Swell/Surf size:: Level 1: Under 1' waves, no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 1: Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled, no whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 1: Frequent easy landing opportunities including gently sloping, sand, gravel or grass
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments::
Location:: M3Q8+QP Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Nehalem Bay
Link to map of route (Optional):
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Nehalem Bay Event - incoming tide play at Nehalem river mouth - L3 (June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Full Name:: Ken Sund
Narrative:: Practice your boat handling skills in dynamic water during the incoming tide at the Nehalem River mouth. Depending on who signs up for this L-3 level activity, we can pair up and work on rescues, surfing, rolls, and paddling in and out of current. I will expect those with developed skills to help those with developing skills. Participants should have some experience with self rescue, assisted rescues, holding onto your boat and paddle and waiting for a rescue. If conditions allow, we may paddle outside of the mouth and check out the scenery from offshore. The swell and wind will dictate what we can do that day. Non leaking drysuit, helmet and whistle required. Farmer john and drytop is OK too.
I have not paddled here before and will do some reconnaissance before this event with a similar tide so I can see what's there to play in. It's an adventure, exploring new waters, seeing how currents and features shape what we can do in a small geographic area.
Meeting Time:: 8:00:00 AM
Launch Time:: 8:35:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Nehalem Beach State Boat Ramp
Take out:: Same as put in
Route Alternative for bad weather:: none
Required equipment:: Helmet
Minimum Immersion protection:: Farmer John
Primary Organizer:: Ken Sund
Co-Organizer(s):: need a co organizer
Has organizer paddled here before?: No
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: No
First Aid /CPR Person:: need a person, mine expires in May
Maximum number of paddlers:: 4, more if we can fill the group with L-3 TOs.
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 70
Estimated Water Temperature:: 56
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 5 hours
Tide times & heights:: .17' low at 5:25 am, 5.34' high at 12:13 pm then ebbing to 3.4' by 4:38pm. Small mid day tidal exchange.
Current information:: It maybe flooding as fast as 2 kts at the mouth.
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 3: Waves to 3', breaking waves to 2'
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 3: 11 to 15 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 3
Rating Comments:: I rate this paddle to L-3 due to the variety of dynamic water conditions found at this river mouth.
Location:: Nehalem bay state boat launch
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Brighton Station # 9437908
Link to map of route (Optional):

Nehalem Bay Event - Nehalem River Jaunt - L2 (June 26, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Full Name:: Jon Light-Powell
Narrative:: Come on an exploration of the Nehalem Bay and river for a relaxed Tide assisted trip into the wild inlands of Oregon.
We will leave from the Nehalem State Beach Boat ramp and tide along the North coast of the bay. We will navigate through some shallow estuary and then rejoin the main flow of the Nehalem river and Tide up through the town of Nehalem and so up the river to the main river bifurcation at North Fork, where will find a place for lunch and to wait for the tide to change and head back out.
On our way back, we will stick more to opposite side of the river until we get to the bay and then cross over to the north side so we can easily come back to our launch point.
Expect to see eagles and Sea Hawks. And perhaps Cows.

Meeting Time:: 8:30:00 AM
Launch Time:: 9:30:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Nehalem Beach State Park Boat Ramp
Take out:: Same
Route Alternative for bad weather:: Avoid the bay. Launch further up stream
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Shorty wetsuit
Primary Organizer:: Jon Light-Powell
Co-Organizer(s):: TBD
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person::
Maximum number of paddlers:: 12
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 75
Estimated Water Temperature:: 55
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 5 hours
Tide times & heights:: event time height
high feet
12:13pm 5.34
10:37pm 7.66
low feet
5:25am - 0.17
4:38pm 3.4
Current information:: 1 TO 2 KNOTS
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 1: Under 1' waves, no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 1: Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled, no whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments:: Hard to make this an L1 unless we leave from further up river.
Location:: M3Q8+QP Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Brighton
Link to map of route (Optional): https://www.deepzoom.com/trip/tev2mqfb
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Nehalem Bay Event: Indian Beach paddle - L3 (June 27, 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Full Name:: Ken Sund
Narrative:: If conditions are favorable for this L-3 paddle, we will launch at Indian Beach in the Ecola State Park and paddle through rock gardens to find surf to play in south of Ecola Point.
If you haven't been there before use your google earth devices to look at this area.
Plastic boats may be best if you like to get close to the rocks. This is a really pretty area to surf/ paddle in when the swell is not too massive, the day is sunny and the wind is low.
If the conditions do not meet L-3 parameters for "waves, swell, breaking waves and surf" we will just stay at the Nehalem river mouth in the flood current doing surfing. I will monitor the forecast based on the day before. Ideally some strong paddlers can join us and we can best insure a positive experience for the less skilled in launching and landing through surf. Useful skills to have for this paddle: reading waves, bracing or rolling.

Meeting Time:: 8:00:00 AM
Launch Time:: 8:45:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Indian Beach, Oregon
Take out:: same as put in
Route Alternative for bad weather:: If there is big swell, we will fall back to the Nehalem River mouth. ( This requires a different launch location)
Required equipment:: Helmet
Minimum Immersion protection:: Farmer John
Primary Organizer:: Ken Sund
Co-Organizer(s):: Will need one
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: No
First Aid /CPR Person:: Mine expires in May-
Maximum number of paddlers:: 4 unless I find more L-3 or 4 paddlers to join.
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 60s
Estimated Water Temperature:: 50s +
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 5.5 hours
Tide times & heights:: -.5' low at around 6 am, 5.5' high at around 1pm then 3.4' low at around 5:30 pm (Pacific NW Tidelog for this general area)
Current information:: maybe 1 kt
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 3: Waves to 3', breaking waves to 2'
Sea state:: Level 3: Waves to paddle tops; numerous whitecaps, waves becoming longer
Landing types:: Level 3: Bad footing, rocky shores, or surf up to 1.5'
Currents:: Level 1: None or mild (less than 1 knot)
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 3
Rating Comments:: Paddlers will need to negotiate launching out and back through surf a variety of times. This is not a class but coaching is available. Surf wipeouts can be dangerous.
Location:: Indian Beach at Ecola State Park south of Seaside.
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Brighton, Nehalem/ + Tidelog information
Link to map of route (Optional):
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Nehalem Bay Event: Three Graces and North Bay - L2 (June 27, 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Full Name:: Paige Light-Powell
Narrative:: Nehalem Bay Event: Explore the Three Graces and the North bay area. Come explore the North Bay with us! We'll launch at noon to avoid the big morning flood current, and paddle out to explore the Three Graces and maybe do a little rock gardening. Then we'll cross to the find a sandy beach for a late lunch inside Kincheloe Point. Depending on weather and interest, we may go back out to the Graces again, high slack is at 1:25 but the exchange after is only 2' so not much ebb current. Or, we may paddle south past Crab Harbor to the narrow part of the spit, where I'm told we can beach the boats and hike over the dune to see the ocean side of the spit and all the interesting life there. Dry suits or full wet suits and helmets required, bring a tow line if you have one.
Meeting Time:: 11:30:00 AM
Launch Time:: 12:00:00 PM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Garibaldi Kayak Launch https://maps.app.goo.gl/aN3BAWyTRnkwGkGX9
Take out:: Garibaldi Kayak Launch https://maps.app.goo.gl/aN3BAWyTRnkwGkGX9
Route Alternative for bad weather:: Cancel
Required equipment:: Helmet
Minimum Immersion protection:: Full wet suit
Primary Organizer:: Paige Light-Powell
Co-Organizer(s):: Jon Light-Powell
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person::
Maximum number of paddlers:: 10
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 60
Estimated Water Temperature:: 55
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 4 hours
Tide times & heights:: -0.4 6:00 AM, 5.9 1:01 PM, 3.7 5:35 PM
Current information:: flood 1.7 kn at 12:20 pm, slack at 1:25 pm, max ebb 1.3 at 3:20 pm
Hazards:: Shipping traffic
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 1: Up to 6 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments:: We'll keep this at an L2 trip, and will cancel and offer something else if the conditions are too big.
Location:: Garibaldi Kayak Launch https://maps.app.goo.gl/aN3BAWyTRnkwGkGX9
Photos (Optional):: yes
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Garibaldi
Link to map of route (Optional):
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Put in::

Sunshine Coast 2026 Event (July 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Sunshine Coast

July 23 - 26, 2026

Paddling days will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday

General registration will open April 9th at 9:30 pm

Trip Organizers who have been approved to lead trips for the Event will be able to register earlier.

OOPS is going back to the Sunshine Coast in BC again in July 2026!

If you have been to this location on our previous trips in 2019 and 2023 you already know what great paddling options are available.

Blessed with relatively warm ocean water, abundant sunshine and beautiful scenery, the area is a paddler's joy, islands and inlets beckon. Seals, geese, eagles and sometimes porpoises and whales can be seen in this beautiful area on the mainland of B.C., just north of Vancouver.

There are many launch locations along a 20 miles stretch of coastline, inlets and harbors. Most of the trips will be Level 2 with limited options for Level 1 trips. There are also some options for Level 3 trips. All paddles, with the exception of Sechelt Inlet, are ocean events so conditions can change quite a bit from day to day.

In 2023 we were able to offer 3-4 trips options each day and get everyone out on the water and enjoyed great weather as well. There are options for off the water activities and lots of dinning and offsite accommodations available in addition to our reserved sites at Bayside RV Park and Campground in Sechelt.

Your Volunteer Staff:

Event Manager: Jensy Myers

Trips Admiral: Bob Freshman

Assistant Event Manager: Janell Niemann-Ross

Sunshine Coast Event - Explore Sechelt Inlet - L2 (July 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Full Name:: Bob Freshman
Narrative:: The Sechelt Inlet is a prime paddling destination. The waters are fairly calm thanks to the geography of the landscape, so you’re unlikely to encounter big waves, as may be possible in the open ocean. Wildlife watchers will be treated to sightings of bald eagles, seals and porpoises, along with a variety of marine life such as starfish and crabs. The deep blue sea gives way to tree lined mountains where no roads go, making for a true back country experience in the wilderness.
We will meet at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park at 8:30, be on the water by 9:30, then follow the coast north, stopping as desired at Mt Richardson Provincial Park beaches. We’ll head towards the First Nations petroglyphs at Nine Mile Beach Returning along the same route back to the take-out.

Meeting Time:: 8:30:00 AM
Launch Time:: 9:30:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Porpoise Bay Provincial Park 6428 Marmot Rd, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A4, Canada
Take out:: Same
Route Alternative for bad weather:: TBD
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Farmer John
Primary Organizer:: Bob Freshman
Co-Organizer(s):: TBD
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person:: Bob Freshman
Maximum number of paddlers:: 10
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 75
Estimated Water Temperature:: 65
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 4 Hours
Tide times & heights:: Time PDT Height (m) Height (ft)
01:57 2.526 8.3
11:47 0.502 1.6
20:16 2.326 7.6
22:55 2.241 7.4
Current information:: Less than 2 knots
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 1: Under 1' waves, no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments:: Immersion protection requirement will be determine on site at Sechelt before the trip.
Location:: Porpoise Bay Provincial Park 6428 Marmot Rd, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A4, Canada
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Porpoise Bay
Link to map of route (Optional):

Sunshine Coast Event - Halfmoon Bay to Buccaneer Bay and Return - L2 (July 24, 2026)

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Full Name:: Dennis Pennell
Narrative:: Launch from Brooks Cove, paddle out to Halfmoon Bay, then to Welcome Passage and across to South Thormanby Island. Along the east side of South Thormanby Island to the northern tip and turn into Buccaneer Bay. Explore Buccaneer Bay for a while, find a spot for lunch, and return more or less the way we came.
Meeting Time:: 9:30:00 AM
Launch Time:: 10:00:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: 49.5096475018154, -123.94757146135655
Take out:: 49.5096475018154, -123.94757146135655
Route Alternative for bad weather:: Either stay near Halfmoon Bay, or paddle in Sechelt Inlet.
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Drysuit
Primary Organizer:: Dennis Pennell
Co-Organizer(s)::
Has organizer paddled here before?: No
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: No
First Aid /CPR Person:: Will need a first aid/CPR certified person on the trip.
Maximum number of paddlers:: 5
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 60s
Estimated Water Temperature:: 50s
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 4 hours
Tide times & heights:: Will provide this once I figure out how to glean this info.
Current information:: Will provide this once I figure out how to glean this info.
Hazards:: Shipping traffic
Wind strength:: Level 3: 12-16 knots (19 mph)
Swell/Surf size:: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 2: Between 0.5 and 1 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments:: Only expected level 3 condition is potential wind. If winds exceed L3, will move trip.
Location:: 49.509536038465576, -123.94739980005595
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: All participants of this trip must be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Canadian Tide and Current Tables
Link to map of route (Optional):
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Sunshine Coast Event - Sunshine Coast from Halfmoon Bay to Sechelt - L2 (July 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Full Name:: Bob Freshman
Narrative:: This is a scenic one way trip along Sunshine Coast from Halfmoon Bay to Sechelt. We will launch from Cooper Green Park at Half Moon Bay at 10AM then head south towards Welcome Beach and then around the point to Sargent Bay. We will
transit Sargent Bay and head south down the coast towards Sechelt passing the Trail
Islands. If time and conditions allow, we can check out one or more of the Trail
Islands. We will take out for lunch break at Wakefield Road Beach. After
lunch we will continue south toward Sechelt and take out at Friendship Park. Total
distance is 10 miles with on water time of 3-4 hours. Shuttle will be set up prior to
our paddle. We will meet at Coopers Green Park to set up shuttle at 9AM.

Meeting Time:: 9:00:00 AM
Launch Time:: 10:00:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: 5500 Fisherman Rd, Halfmoon Bay, BC V0N 1Y1, Canada
Take out:: 5665 Teredo St, Sechelt, BC V7Z 0P6, Canada
Route Alternative for bad weather:: TBD
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Drysuit
Primary Organizer:: Bob Freshman
Co-Organizer(s):: TBD
Has organizer paddled here before?: Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: Yes
First Aid /CPR Person:: Bob Freshman
Maximum number of paddlers:: 10
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 75
Estimated Water Temperature:: 60
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 4 Hours
Tide times & heights:: Time PDT Height (m) Height (ft)
01:27 3.978 13.1
09:40 1.124 3.7
17:49 4.399 14.4
22:53 3.735 12.3
Current information:: Less than 2 Knots
Hazards::
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing:: Level 2: Between 0.5 and 1 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments::
Location:: 5500 Fisherman Rd, Halfmoon Bay, BC V0N 1Y1, Canada
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: Half Moon Bay
Link to map of route (Optional):

Sunshine Coast Event - Explore Pender Harbor and Garden Bay - L2 (July 25, 2026)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Full Name:: Dennis Pennell
Narrative:: We will launch from a place called Salalus, GPS coordinates 49.62242, -124.02567 . From there we will pick a route/direction based on conditions. The general idea is to explore Pender Harbor out to Charles and William Islands, then loop back along the other shore possibly as far as Gunboat Bay to the east for about a 10 statute mile trip. It is possible the distance might extend to 12-13 miles depending on the route chosen.

Due to the east-west nature of this body of water it should be fairly protected from the northwest or southeast winds.
Meeting Time:: 9:30:00 AM
Launch Time:: 10:00:00 AM
Type of activity:: Paddle Trip
Put in:: Salalus, GPS coordinates 49.62242, -124.02567
Take out:: Salalus, GPS coordinates 49.62242, -124.02567
Route Alternative for bad weather:: None
Required equipment::
Minimum Immersion protection:: Farmer John
Primary Organizer:: Dennis Pennell
Co-Organizer(s)::
Has organizer paddled here before?: No
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before?: No
Organizer's first aid and CPR current?: No
First Aid /CPR Person:: My CPR cert expires end of April 2026. If I don't get it renewed I will need a First Aid/CPR certified person on the trip.
Maximum number of paddlers:: 6
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy:: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature:: 60s
Estimated Water Temperature:: 50s
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch):: 4 hours
Tide times & heights:: To be determined
Current information::
Hazards:: Shipping traffic
Wind strength:: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size:: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state:: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types:: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents:: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half
Total distance:: Level 3: 11 to 15 miles
Open crossing:: Level 2: Between 0.5 and 1 miles
Paddling Environment::
Overall rating:: Level 2
Rating Comments::
Location:: 49.62242, -124.02567
Photos (Optional)::
COVID-19 Status of Trip:: All participants of this trip must be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station:: To be determined
Link to map of route (Optional):

Willamette River 2026 Event (August 20, 2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Willamette River

August 20-22, 2026

General registration opens Thursday April 23rd at 9:30 pm

Trip Organizers who have been approved for the Event will be able to register earlier.

Join OOPS for a three-day, two-night paddle down a beautiful stretch of the Willamette River from Albany to Keizer. We’ll paddle ~15 miles a day with the current and camp along the river (at Luckiamute and Independence).

We’ll meet Thursday morning at the take-out (Keizer), leave our cars and be shuttled with our boats and gear to the put-in (Hyak Park near Albany).

From Hyak, we’ll paddle down-river to Luckimute Landing State Natural Area, camping on the Willamette River right across from the confluence with the Santiam River. You’ll need to bring your own food, water, and shelter (and have it all fit in your kayak!).

Friday morning we’ll depart downriver, stopping for lunch on a gravel bar. Then we will paddle to and camp at Riverview Park in Independence, Oregon.

We'll enjoy the festival happening that evening (quiet time at 10pm), as well as food carts and pubs. You can also cook your own dinner. Water refills, showers, and food will be available in Independence.

Saturday morning we’ll leave Independence enroute to Keizer Rapids Landing. Our cars will be waiting for our return and we’ll pack up and return to our civilized lives.

This is a great trip for everyone–including people new to kayak camping (stay tuned for a shake-down overnight in early summer). Limited to 20 people.

Your Volunteer Staff:

Event Manager: Tori Wieldt

Trips Admiral: Mark Niemann-Ross

Assistant Event Manager: Lynn Lindgren

Orcas Island Event 2026 (September 17, 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Orcas Island

Sept 17 - 21, 2026

Paddling days will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday

General registration opens May 7th, 9:30 pm

Trip Organizers who have been approved to lead trips for the Event will be able to register earlier

Come paddle with us in the lovely and always popular San Juan Islands on Orcas Island, Washington! This year we are camping at a new location: the Four Winds Westward Ho youth camp. Located in Deer Harbor, the property includes one hundred acres of woods, fields, and waterfront. We will be the only group using the property when we are there, and will be renting a house with a kitchen and inside gathering space. There’s a large area for our tents near toilets and showers and a parking area that includes space for small RV’s. The camp is beautiful, quiet, and spacious. Daytime temperatures range in the high 60s, and it gets into the 50s at night.

Costs for the event is $108.00 for on-site OOPS members.

Paddles to and around nearby islands are plentiful. The popular destination of Jones Island takes you through passes and around small islands to a pretty island park with a resident deer herd, sandy beaches, and trails through madrona groves and meadows. Or paddle to the more isolated and protected Yellow Island, owned by The Nature Conservancy, and is home to amazing wildflowers and frolicking seals, where you can hike with a 360-degree view of the San Juans. Take a trip to the many bays and islets of the horseshoe shaped Sucia Island and gaze at the interesting geology and strange rock formations. Paddles from Orcas give you a chance to see jellyfish, seals, and perhaps its namesake whale. Visit Mt. Constitution, rising above Orcas half a mile high, with its fantastic vistas of other San Juan Islands and Mt. Baker in the Cascades. Orcas has excellent pubs, wineries, restaurants, and shops, as well as the oldest pottery studio in the northwest.

Although we will be there in September, out of high season, we do recommend that you book your ferry reservation as soon as you are accepted onto the event. While it is possible to travel without reservations, sometimes there is a long line, which may mean a wait for the next ferry.

Your Volunteer Staff:

Event Manager: Gay Lewis

Trips Admiral: Tom Waldron

Assistant Event Manager: Nancy Schmidt