Allison Jones Hunt

Allison Jones Hunt

two women on paddleboards in a river with houseboats in the distance two women on paddleboards in a river with houseboats in the distance
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A short paddle from Willamette Park takes you past scenic houseboats.
Credit: Tojo Andrianarivo for Portland in Color

Where to Stand-Up Paddleboard Around Portland

Spend a nice day stand-up paddleboarding on local waterways.

3 min read
Allison Jones Hunt

Allison Jones Hunt

Kayaking, sailing, white-water rafting, surfing and lazy river floating have been around for ages. A newer sport has also become popular at dozens of boat launches and docks around Portland: stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Using a longboard, a carbon-fiber paddle and a good amount of balance, SUP offers a fresh perspective on the water.

Know Before You Go

Safe water conditions should never be assumed. Please be sure to follow safety guidelines, relevant laws and visibility protocols. Paddling or swimming at night can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

Whether you’re an experienced SUP’er or a curious newbie, the Portland area has plenty to offer on a hot summer day (or any day with the right wetsuit).

two women pilot stand-up paddleboards on a river on a sunny day
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Paddling south from Willamette Park offers a great workout and distant downtown skyline views.
Credit: Tojo Andrianarivo for Portland in Color
one person wearing a life jacket pilots a stand-up paddleboard in a river while a second person in the water looks on
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Stand-up paddleboarding on the Willamette River is a popular activity.
Credit: Tojo Andrianarivo for Portland in Color
a man stand-up paddle boarding on the Willamette River in Portland
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Enjoy unparalleled views of downtown Portland on a stand-up paddleboard.
Credit: Loren Kerns
two people practice yoga on stand-up paddle boards floating on the Willamette River with a view of the downtown Portland city skyline in the background
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Stand-up paddleboarding on the Willamette River is a popular activity that offers a great workout and awesome Portland views.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding Spots

Notable shops and waterways for newbies and veterans alike.

Questions About Paddleboarding in Portland

When is the best time to stand-up paddleboard in Portland?

While you’re likely to find hardcore, wet-suited SUPers on the water year-round, Portland’s prime season runs from late spring through fall. Daily, afternoon winds can pick up, making weekday mornings the ideal time for safe paddling with reduced wind and boat traffic.

Is it safe to paddleboard on the Willamette River?

Assuming you follow all relevant laws and safety guidelines, the Willamette River can be a safe paddling destination. Sunny days bring more boat traffic and increased risk.

Are there local options for more advanced “dynamic water” paddling?

Near Portland, stand-up paddleboarding is available on both whitewater and open ocean. Appropriate equipment and private custom lessons are available as needed from Next Adventure, Alder Creek and Gorge Performance.

Do people really practice yoga on paddleboards?

Indeed, they do. The balance required on a paddleboard is great for your core. SUP yoga classes are growing in popularity as more yogis discover the challenge and fun of balancing on a floating paddleboard. Check out Yoga to You PDX to book your own SUP Yoga class.

SUP Classes & Rentals in Portland

A one-on-one session or group class is a great way to learn the technique of standing upright on your board. Beginners will gain local river knowledge, perfect their paddle stroke and enjoy the water with experienced pros.

Gorge Performance offers private beginner and intermediate classes on the Willamette River for individuals, couples and small groups. You can also book a weekend 3-hour Basic Stand-Up Paddling lesson, private classes, tours or group events with Alder Creek Kayak, Canoe Raft & SUP. Classes generally take advantage of warmer weather (and water) with availability from late spring to early fall.

SUP offers a fresh perspective on the water.

Youngsters aged 10–14 can also join the fun with a five-day summer camp from Alder Creek. The full-day, weeklong Willamette River adventure includes paddling safety, maneuvering, bracing, rescues, hydrology, and more, with introductions to kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards.

Once you’re ready to head out on your own, local shops offer plenty of ways to get SUPing. Gorge Performance provides rentals from three hours to full weeks along with new and used boards and gear for purchase. Next Adventure rents whitewater or inflatable recreation boards and gear from convenient locations in Portland, Sandy and Scappoose Bay, a popular paddling destination.

SUP Locations In & Around Portland

Equipped with the right gear, you’ll want to head to one of many prime spots to hit the water. Check out George Rogers Park, Clackamette Cove, Cathedral Park, Henry Hagg Lake, Cook Park, and Willamette Park.

Many of the same places where lessons are offered are the very same spots where experienced boarders take to the water. This includes the Sellwood Riverfront Park, Smith and Bybee Lakes, Scappoose Bay and several locations along the Willamette River.

Kayakers and a stand-up paddle boarder ply the waters of Scapoose Bay
Scappoose Bay offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and other activities.

Credit: Andrea Johnson Photography, Travel Portland

East of Portland, Hood River is another popular destination for paddle and wind sports. Head to Pure Stoke for supplies and second-to-none advice. And be sure to stop at Double Mountain Brewery for post-paddle pizza and pints.

For those willing to drive a little longer to their destination, Timothy Lake is an idyllic spot to paddleboard. Approximately 50 miles (80 km) southeast of Portland, this popular SUP spot is located in the Mt. Hood National Forest. West of Vancouver, Wash., Vancouver Lake offers another scenic option. South of Portland, the city of Lake Oswego is home to Oswego Lake, a public body of water paddleboarders often frequent.

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