Met up with several paddlers seeking a morning kayaking the Willamette river this past Sunday! They had reserved their kayaks through Next Adventure’s reservation system and were looking forward to a beginner kayak lesson on given by Northwest River Guides. It started in Sellwood Park at 9:00 a.m. with paddlers greeting the staff and an introduction to the kayaks. We learned how to sit in and adjust the kayak seats and foot braces. After a quick tutorial on paddling technique we set off. The river was quiet – we left about 9:15. We passed colorful floating homes and the Oaks Park Amusement Park. Soon we were at Ross Island, passing by great blue herons quietly stalking their prey. Ospreys called overhead. Then up ahead we pulled a left turn into the Ross Island Lagoon, where our guide Dave Hoffman took us to a bald eagle nest! It’s quite a sight.
You can enjoy this Sunday morning spectacular all summer by reserving a boat through Next Adventure’s kayak department. They last from 9:00-11:30. Stop by Next Adventure at 426 SE Grand, or reserve online through their registration system, or call 503-772-1122.