This trip is limited to members with a wet exit certification (except for level 1 trips when the paddler is not using a spray skirt....if the paddler is wearing a spray skirt on a level 1 paddle, the Wet Exit Certification is REQUIRED). To successfully register you will need to sign into your OOPS member account, and your account will need to be a member of the "Wet Exit Certified" group if you intend to wear a spray skirt. Your acceptance is conditional on approval by the Organizer, who may contact you with questions about your skills and equipment. If the measured water temperature is different enough from that listed below to warrant a change in required immersion protection, the Organizer will contact all participants and the Trips Board member with the update at least a day before the trip.
Narrative: We’ll take a trip back in time, first downstream to the deserted, semi-abandoned industrial area above the dam, at the entrance of the non-operational locks. Then we’ll head back upstream to the Narrows, where ancient basalt has formed interesting islands to explore. You can envision how the Willamette looked 200 years ago, or maybe 2,000 years ago.
We’ll paddle round-trip from West Linn’s Willamette Park, paddling a total of eight miles, first 4 miles to and from the dam, then 4 miles to and from the Narrows. The summer current will be mild, even near the area by the dam where we will be. No, you’re not going to accidentally go over the falls! This will be a relaxed pace paddle so that we can enjoy the scenery.
Because of double out-and-back route, first north, then south, we’ll take our lunch break at Willamette Park, our launch site. We’ll launch from the small beach area where the Tualatin River enters the Willamette at 10 a.m. There is a narrow steep path near the grassy parking area or a wider and longer, but easier, path to the west of that where parking is also available.
Bathrooms are available; free parking. SUPs who can keep up with kayaks, canoes with flotation, and kayaks 12’ and longer are welcome. No inflatables, please. Paddlers should expect to stay with a pod.
Meeting Time: 9:30:00 AM
Launch Time: 10:00:00 AM
Type of activity: Paddle Trip
Put in: Willamette Park, West Linn, beach area
Take out: Willamette Park, West Linn, beach area
Route Alternative for bad weather: TBD
Required equipment:
Minimum Immersion protection: None
Primary Organizer: Chris Mayou
Assistant 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: 6
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature: 65-71
Estimated Water Temperature: 65-70
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 5 hours
Tide times & heights: N/A
Current information: < 1 knot
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 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents: Level 1: None or mild (less than 1 knot)
Total distance: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing: Level 1: No open crossing
Paddling Environment:
Overall rating: Level 2
Rating Comments:
Location (Optional): Willamette Park, 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Photos (optional):
