What’s Happening
Lo que está sucediendo
Help out, learn, build community and have fun!
¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!
Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar below for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.
Not seeing what you are looking for or want to schedule something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!
El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.
¿No encuentra lo que busca o desea programar algo especial con un grupo? Ponte en contacto directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada; por ello, contacta con el socio para obtener la información más reciente. ¡Salgamos al aire libre!
Sort Event List by:
Accessible Supported | Adventure Sport | Agriculture | Art in Nature | Community Event | Elders | Healing | Hiking | Park Updates | Plants | Pollinators | Recreation | Road Trips | Sky Watch | Virtual Events | Volunteering | Water Fun | Wildlife | Workshops | Youth | FREE
LCNN is excited to share our Partner’s events, click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information (LCNN does not lead these events).
NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.
River Nutrient Enhancement Season volunteers - salmon carcass placement
The Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group is gearing up for nutrient enhancement season and are looking for volunteers to join us.
Nutrient enhancement involves placing salmon carcasses in streams and rivers to return vital marine nutrients to our watersheds. This work supports forest health, strengthens salmon runs, and restores balance to our ecosystems.
The work: Highly physical. Volunteers will help toss fish carcasses into waterways, but it’s also rewarding, with opportunities to spend the day in some of the most beautiful river areas in our region.
Shifts: Weekdays only (we do not normally toss on weekends)
Length: 8 am to 4 pm availability is appreciated, though shifts will be a max of 6 hours a day within that timeframe.
When: We are currently recruiting for the months of September and October, but additional opportunities will roll out as hatchery schedules are released.
Where: Hatcheries in Lewis River, Washougal River, Kalama River, and Toutle River
Because hatcheries roll out carcasses quickly, we need to know your availability ahead of time so we can fill shifts as needed. Flexibility is important, and your advance notice helps us make the most of every volunteer day!
Please fill out this google form ONLY if you are interested in volunteering and have weekly availability during this timeframe.
If you have specific questions, feel free to reach out to Jesse, at jbarr@lcfeg.org.
Thank you for helping us give back to the rivers and forests that sustain salmon, wildlife, and people alike. With gratitude,
The LCFEG Team
Vancouver Lake Community Paddle Trip
Explore Vancouver Lake from a whole new perspective! Join the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Vancouver’s Water Center education staff for a free family-friendly canoe paddle aboard 29-foot, 14-passenger Big Canoes! Glide past shore birds, look for signs of beaver activity, and learn about the Columbia River ecosystem from seasoned paddle guides and educators.
Plan to paddle for 1.5 hours in Estuary Partnership’s Big Canoes along with other participants, and walk under 1/4 of a mile on gravel, muddy/sandy beaches, and uneven terrain. Paddlers must be able to step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for the duration of the paddle program.
Big Canoe paddles are suitable for ages 6 and older. Previous paddling experience is not required!
Registration is full. To add your name to the waitlist, email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us and tell us how many people are in your group. Advanced registration is required, and space is limited. Sign up today!
You will receive a confirmation letter with full event details, meeting location, and how to prepare for your event after registration.
If you need to cancel, please do so at your earliest convenience to allow your spot to be filled by someone on the waitlist.
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
Who can paddle?
Big Canoe trips are suitable for ages 6 and older.
Previous paddling experience is not necessary.
Paddlers must step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for 1.5 hours.
Do I need any equipment or special gear?
Please come prepared for the weather with raingear or a hat and sunscreen/sun protection.
Personal flotation devices (PFD’s) in youth – XXL are provided.
This paddle trip will depart from a small sand patch and not a dock so waterproof shoes or sandals are recommended. Old tennis shoes work great, too.
Can I bring my camera or cell phone?
Yes. Be advised that we cannot guarantee the safety of electronic devices and do not offer dry bags. Occasional splashes and rain make the bottom of the boat wet, but typically gear in a pocket will stay dry.
How safe are paddle trips?
Safety is always our first priority. Our guides are trained in on-water rescue, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid.
Water activities carry inherent risk; guides take precautions to ensure a safe paddling experience.
See our safety protocols or contact us for more information.
Questions? Contact the Water Resources Education Center at 360-487-7111 or email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us
ROAD TRIP: 1st Annual Witches Paddle at Scappoose Bay
Grab your broomstick. Or better yet, a paddle!
Something wickedly fun is brewing on Scappoose Bay. The Paddle Shack is hosting its first Witches Paddle, and you’re invited to trade your broom for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Dust off your pointiest hat, gather your coven and take to the water for an afternoon of floating, cackling and a little Halloween mischief. Costumes are absolutely encouraged. After all, who says witches can only fly?
Bring your kayak or SUP or rent one from The Paddle Shack.
Visit www.thepaddleshack-sb.com(opens in a new tab) to make your reservation.
No spells required. Just a paddle, a sense of adventure and perhaps a waterproof witch’s hat.
This is a non-sanctioned, community-driven event encouraging paddlers to gather together at this public Marina for some festive paddling. It is not organized by the Port of Columbia County, the The Paddle Shack or Scappoose Bay Marina.
Prioritize water safety by reviewing all local rules before heading out.
Life jackets (PFDs) are required for all paddlers.
Operating any vessel while intoxicated is strictly prohibited.
Keep a respectful distance from other paddlers and wildlife
Follow local marina rules, park only in designated spots, and practice patience on the dock.
Be respectful and supportive of the local businesses at the marina.
*If you are renting a Kayak, Stand-up Paddleboard or Canoe from The Paddle Shack you will need to sign the liability waiver and are required to wear a PFD.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Dragon boat racing for visually impaired
Join the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes for a Dragonboat Clinic - learn more at their Dragon Boat race team HERE.
All of the events are at no-cost for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Contact NWABA for specific time and location information.
At NWABA, Everybody is an Athlete: they believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.
The programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.
For more information contact: Anneliese Hugo
Email: pdxvanprogramsteam@nwaba.org
Text: 360.448.7254
Call: 360.682.1662
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Kayaking Clinic for visually impaired
Join the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes for a Kayaking Clinic
All of the events are at no-cost for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Contact NWABA for specific time and location information.
At NWABA, Everybody is an Athlete: they believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.
The programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.
For more information contact: Anneliese Hugo
Email: pdxvanprogramsteam@nwaba.org
Text: 360.448.7254
Call: 360.682.1662
Kayaking Clinic for visually impaired
Join the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes for a Kayaking Clinic
All of the events are at no-cost for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Contact NWABA for specific time and location information.
At NWABA, Everybody is an Athlete: they believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.
The programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.
For more information contact: Anneliese Hugo
Email: pdxvanprogramsteam@nwaba.org
Text: 360.448.7254
Call: 360.682.1662
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Sunset kayak paddle
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for the popular evening paddle class to experience the sunset glow. Paddle north to the Columbia River to enjoy the magic of the setting sun and the rising moon while sharing snacks on the beach.
This is a three-hour guided tour, and all skill levels are welcome. Reservations are required to attend.
Camas’ Rain in the Park event
Mark your calendars now for the 2nd annual Rain in the Park event in Camas, WA!
Cool off with the help of the CWFD from 2 -2:30 p.m., at Hathaway Elementary School in Washougal, on the school playground adjacent to E. St.
The Camas-Washougal Firefighters invite you to cool off this summer. The firefighters will make it rain at the school using a fire engine and water cannon. Feel free to stop by the engine to say hello, kids can get fire hat and stickers.
A Kona Ice truck will be on-site from 1:30-2:30pm selling save ice.
Thanks to the Washougal School District for your support of the event!
Sunset kayak paddle
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for the popular evening paddle class to experience the sunset glow. Paddle north to the Columbia River to enjoy the magic of the setting sun and the rising moon while sharing snacks on the beach.
This is a three-hour guided tour, and all skill levels are welcome. Reservations are required to attend.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
ROAD TRIP: Canoeing on the Willamette with Outdoor Afro
Join Outdoor Afro for a morning of paddling the Lower Willamette River!
This is a BIPOC/Queer affinity-based event. The event will be led by a ACA-certified instructor. Equipment includes canoes, paddles, and PFDs. Thank you to the Willamette Riverkeepers for organizing this community event.
This is a free event and requires registration.
To learn more and register for the Outdoor Afro event and others, download the Outdoor Afro app, create a free account and search for the Vancouver-Portland metro area events.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Upper Lewis River Flyfishing Outing with Clark-Skamania Flyfishers
Join Clark-Skamania Flyfishers Don and Carol Kohler for an outing on the Lewis River!
This will be an overnight camping trip focused on wading for trout.
More information on their webpage HERE.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield - Learn to Kayak Tour
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for a kayak class!
Come paddle through the winding waterways of the Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Experience the beauty and fun of paddling Lake River in the Bachelor Island area.
You will practice paddling skills with the help of an experienced guide. A variety of birds and wildlife are seen as we slip around the puzzle pieces of land and explore paths once traveled by Native America tribes and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We look for bald eagles and blue herons and so much more! As part of the tour, we cover basic paddling skills including launching, strokes, maneuvering, and how to stay safe on the water. This is a great way to get on the water and learn paddling fundamentals!
No previous experience required!
Enjoy a nice flat water paddle trip
View wildlife and experience the river's wonders
Recieve coaching on paddling skills, safety and technique
Registration for this class is required.
Sunset kayak paddle
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for the popular evening paddle class to experience the sunset glow. Paddle north to the Columbia River to enjoy the magic of the setting sun and the rising moon while sharing snacks on the beach.
This is a three-hour guided tour, and all skill levels are welcome. Reservations are required to attend.
Sunset kayak paddle
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for the popular evening paddle class to experience the sunset glow. Paddle north to the Columbia River to enjoy the magic of the setting sun and the rising moon while sharing snacks on the beach.
This is a three-hour guided tour, and all skill levels are welcome. Reservations are required to attend.
Ridgefield's Dragon Boat Paddles
Paddle a Dragon Boat in Ridgefield!
Have you ever wanted to try Dragon Boat paddling but didn't know where to start? You've found the place! Join the exciting sport that is growing in the United States and is especially big in the Pacific Northwest.
Ridgefield Dragon Boat community paddling is your opportunity to join a fun, team oriented activity at no cost from April 17 through October 3. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. No experience is needed.
2026 Community Paddling Schedule:
Regular Season: April 17 - October 3
Weekly Paddles held on Fridays at 5:30 PM.
Location:
Ridgefield Waterfront
Fee: FREE! Registration required, spots fill quickly!
Sign up for all community events on Meetup
No experience is needed and equipment is provided.
Ridgefield - Learn to Kayak Tour
Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for a kayak class!
Come paddle through the winding waterways of the Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Experience the beauty and fun of paddling Lake River in the Bachelor Island area.
You will practice paddling skills with the help of an experienced guide. A variety of birds and wildlife are seen as we slip around the puzzle pieces of land and explore paths once traveled by Native America tribes and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We look for bald eagles and blue herons and so much more! As part of the tour, we cover basic paddling skills including launching, strokes, maneuvering, and how to stay safe on the water. This is a great way to get on the water and learn paddling fundamentals!
No previous experience required!
Enjoy a nice flat water paddle trip
View wildlife and experience the river's wonders
Recieve coaching on paddling skills, safety and technique
Registration for this class is required.
Vancouver Lake Community Paddle Trip in the Big Canoes
Explore Vancouver Lake from a whole new perspective! Join the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Vancouver’s Water Center education staff for a free family-friendly canoe paddle aboard 29-foot, 14-passenger Big Canoes!
Glide past shore birds, look for signs of beaver activity, and learn about the Columbia River ecosystem from seasoned paddle guides and educators.
Plan to paddle for 1.5 hours in Estuary Partnership’s Big Canoes along with other participants,
Requires a walk under 1/4 of a mile on gravel, muddy/sandy beaches, and uneven terrain.
Paddlers must be able to step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for the duration of the paddle program.
Big Canoe paddles are suitable for ages 6 and older. Previous paddling experience is not required!
To help us make these free trips available to more participants, we ask that each person or family sign up for only one paddle trip per year.
Advanced registration is required, and space is limited. Sign up today!
You will receive a confirmation letter with full event details, meeting location, and how to prepare for your event after registration.
If you need to cancel, please do so at your earliest convenience to allow your spot to be filled by someone on the waitlist.
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can paddle?
Big Canoe trips are suitable for ages 6 and older.
Previous paddling experience is not necessary.
Paddlers must step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for 1.5 hours.
Do I need any equipment or special gear?
Please come prepared for the weather with raingear or a hat and sunscreen/sun protection.
Personal flotation devices (PFD’s) in youth – XXL are provided.
This paddle trip will depart from a small sand patch and not a dock so waterproof shoes or sandals are recommended. Old tennis shoes work great, too.
Can I bring my camera or cell phone?
Yes. Be advised that we cannot guarantee the safety of electronic devices and do not offer dry bags. Occasional splashes and rain make the bottom of the boat wet, but typically gear in a pocket will stay dry.
How safe are paddle trips?
Safety is always our first priority. Our guides are trained in on-water rescue, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid.
Water activities carry inherent risk; guides take precautions to ensure a safe paddling experience.
See our safety protocols or contact us for more information.
Questions? Contact the Water Resources Education Center at 360-487-7111 or email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us
