Join us for a fascinating and seldom paddled stretch of the Willamette! Enjoy a rare opportunity to admire Portland's iconic bridges and huge ships from a unique perspective, while learning more about historic riverside industries, and today's Superfund challenges.
What: Bridges & Big Ships Paddle Trip
When: Saturday, February 3rd from 9:30am to 2:30pm
Where: Paddle from the SE Portland Boathouse to Cathedral Park
Details: We'll launch from the SE Portland Boathouse and will paddle 7.5 miles downstream, passing under eight historic bridges (including the Hawthorne, Morrison, Burnside, Steel, Broadway, Fremont, Union Pacific Railroad, and St. Johns Bridges), ending our trip at Cathedral Park.
Meet at the SE Portland Boathouse (1515 SE Water Avenue, Portland) in the parking lot just above the boat ramp. Please arrive around 9:30am as we aim to launch no later than 10:00am. Participants should be comfortable paddling for 2-3 hours in current. There are no restrooms along this stretch. Dress appropriately for *cold* and wet weather (bring hats, gloves, pack a spare set of dry clothes and extra warm layers! We will have extra dry bags on hand). Be smart about how you equip your feet: thick wool or fleece socks and warm rubber/waterproof boots are a good idea. Also bring water, snacks, lunch, a hot drink, and perhaps your camera.
Shuttle: Riverkeeper is offering a limited shuttle service from the take-out, back to the SE Portland Boathouse. You must reserve a seat in our shuttle in advance through this registration. We welcome participants to make their own shuttle arrangements as well. We expect to reach the take out sometime between 1:30pm and 2:00pm. The shuttle can take approximately 25-40 minutes (one way). Shuttle fee is $10.
Need a Boat? Riverkeeper canoes are available for free through this registration as well. You must recruit your own paddling partner.
