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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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   

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.

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.

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.

columbiaslough

Join the summer fun at Slough Celebration!

The Columbia Slough Watershed Council team will be celebrating our community with an afternoon of free summer fun. Enjoy food from local vendors, cold drinks, and music. Paddle out in a bimaran, join birdwatching, yard games, or win our awesome raffle prizes.

The Columbia Slough stretches the length of east Portland from Fairview Lake ending at Kelly point park. It is home to wildlife and botanicals within the city limits. The Columbia Slough Watershed Council cleans, protects, and facilitates riparian recreation. The annual slough celebration is our chance to say thank you for your participation and support in these efforts.

Feeling like you want to be more involved? Join as a volunteer!

RSVP Here (no fee, just let us know you are coming)

Venue Location: The Urban Flood Safety & Water Quality District.

Getting there: Carpooling or public transportation is a great option. We will have parking available on site and off-site.

Public Transportation: Bus line #70 will drop you at NE 21st & Riverside Way. From drop off, a .4 mile walk to get to venue grounds.

Parking: Parking will be available on venue grounds, as well as the grass lot across from the venue grounds. Limited parking available at Hydro on NE 21st St. As well as free street parking on NE 21st St. and/or Riverside Way.

The City of Washougal invites residents and visitors to explore local parks, learn new skills, and connect with neighbors through the 2026 Second Saturday Summer Series, a three-month lineup of free, family-friendly events highlighting different ways the community can enjoy and engage with public spaces.

Hosted through the City’s Parks Passport Program, the summer series will feature hands-on activities focused on water safety, youth recreation, community stewardship, and local legacy. Each event is designed to showcase a unique aspect of park use while encouraging residents of all ages to discover Washougal’s parks and community resources.

“Second Saturday is about creating opportunities for people to connect with their parks and with one another,” said Corinthia Barnhart, Parks and Cemetery Program Manager for the City of Washougal. “Each event highlights a different way our parks serve the community—from recreation and safety education to environmental stewardship and neighborhood connections. We’re excited to bring people together throughout the summer and celebrate the many ways public spaces enrich our lives.”

June 13: Water Safety Day

In partnership with the Washington State Parks Boating Program and Girl Scout Troop 45703, Water Safety Day will provide families with valuable information and activities focused on safe recreation around local waterways. Participants can learn about proper life jacket fit, water safety practices, and summer preparedness through hands-on demonstrations, educational activities, and family-friendly crafts.

Photo source: WA State Parks

Enjoy a 10 mile kayak paddle around Bachelor Island!

The Columbia River Water Trail is a wonderful place to explore by kayak.  Join Alder Creek Ridgefield team to paddle through the winding waterways around Bachelor Island on this full day tour!  A variety of birds and wildlife are often seen as we slip around the puzzle pieces of land and explore paths once traveled by native tribes and Lewis and Clark. 

This full day flat water tour is a terrific way to experience the beauty of the river and cover a little more distance. 

• Previous experience required.

• Paddle from our boathouse on the Lake River out to the Columbia River and around Bachelor Island.

• Total paddle length is about 10 miles.

• We stop on the beach along Bachelor Island to stretch our legs and have a snack.

• Hosted by Alder Creek Ridgefield, registration required HERE

This annual event, traditionally held on the second Saturday in June, encourages people to lead healthy, active lifestyles and connect with nature. To celebrate, the U.S. Forest Service often waives standard day-use fees at national forests and grasslands to increase public access. 

The day is coordinated by the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable and the U.S. Forest Service. Activities can include fishing, kayaking, hiking, archery, and bird watching. 

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.

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.

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Free Fishing Weekend - Fishing licenses are not required to fish for many species in Washington. See WDFW’s 2025 news release to learn more about the event. 

Best opportunities for anglers: Some great fishing opportunities available without a license on Free Fishing Weekend include:

• Rainbow trout and bass in lowland lakes across the state.

• Lingcod, cabezon, flounder, and sole in Puget Sound.

• Rockfish and surfperch on the Washington coast.

• Shad in the Columbia River.

• Fishing licenses are still required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut and all shellfish, including clams, crabs, mussels, oysters, and shrimp.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

Join Outdoor Afro Portland for fishing with I'm Hooked, at Hagg Lake in Gaston, Oregon

• All equipment, including life jackets, rods and reels, and lessons are provided free of charge.

• Families are welcome.

• Food and t-shirts are free for children.

• There is a $5 fee for adults. Pay the vendor directly by going here:

• Register for the event HERE‍ ‍so they will have your name for your t-shirt and lunch.

• Meet at Boat Ramp C. Arrive no later than 8am if you want to fish from a boat. You have a better chance of catching fish earlier in the morning. If you don't mind fishing from the shore, you can arrive later.

Trip Leader: Shirley Jackson

Mark your calendar for Big Paddle Waterfront Festival

The planning is underway and you can track updates in the Festival webpage HERE.

Plan on joining the Big Paddle Ride on Saturday, live music, vendors, guided hikes and lots of fun and family oriented activities.

If you want to get out on the water to get ready, here are lots of great helpful tips and reminders:

About the Water Trail: The Water Trail was established in 2012 and was the impetus for the first Ridgefield Big Paddle. The unique feature of a water trail is you can float along the trail, and you will not have changed that trail. It's a sustainable form of use. The 32 river miles in this water trail include:

• Vancouver Lake (more than 5 miles to circumnavigate), the full extent of Lake River (11.5 miles)

• Columbia River along the west side of Bachelor Island (4 miles)

• Bachelor Island Slough and the confluences of the Lewis and Lake Rivers (2.6 miles)

• Upriver on the East Fork of the Lewis River to La Center (3.25 miles)

• Upriver on the North Fork of the Lewis River to Woodland (6.5 miles)

Lake River Interpretive Guide
Laker River Interpretive Map

Indigenous History: There is rich history all along the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Water Trail. Since time immemorial Chinookan Peoples of the Lower Columbia River have called the land along the Columbia River home. The village of Cathlapotle, located on what is now the Carty Unit of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, was one of the largest on the river. The village was excavated in the 1990s, and a replica Plankhouse was built on the Refuge as an education and interpretive center. Learn more about the archaeological site and the Plankhouse.

What Steps Can You Take to Protect Water: There is so much you can do to help protect our streams, rivers, and lakes!

• Wash your car on the grass or visit an eco-friendly car wash

• Pick up pet waste and be sure to know how to properly dispose of human waste outdoors

• Reduce or eliminate lawn and garden fertilizer and pesticides

• Pick up litter (especially along streams and rivers!)

• Follow organizations like the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Watershed Alliance of SW Washington to learn more and keep up on future volunteer opportunities.

Wildlife Viewing: There are numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing along the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Trail. The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is situated along Lake River at the Confluence with the Columbia and boasts. Learn more about the Habitat and Wildlife on the Refuge.

This video, from Alder Creek Kayak, gives a little taste of the wildlife you may see while paddling along the water trail.

Paddling Safety: Plan ahead and be prepared to safely enjoy your paddling experience.

• Prepare a float plan. Inform others of your trip and expected return time.

• Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.

• Do not paddle alone.

• Learn about your route in advance, especially potential hazards and emergency access.

• Know the weather forecast. If you experience sudden temperature drops, increasing and volatile winds or darkening clouds, get off the water.

• Carry food and water adequate for your trip length.

• Maintain distance between your boat and objects in the water, including motor boats, which may cause waves that could capsize a canoe or kayak.

• Position your boat perpendicular to an approaching wake.

• Never float or paddle over a fallen tree or other obstruction.

• Learn how to self-rescue in the event of capsize.

Paddling Etiquette: Appropriate, low-impact use of the water trail is the responsibility of all who use this natural resource and will ensure the waterways stay beautiful and healthy. Keep the following in mind while you travel:

• Leave No Trace - Do not alter your surroundings. Leave natural objects as you found them.

• Quietly view wildlife. Give a wide berth to any birds or animals you encounter.

• Respect Private Property - The river is open for recreation but lands along the shore may be private or restricted wildlife refuge lands. Respect private property and posted lands and do not trespass.

Learning to Paddle: Haven't made your way into the world of paddling yet? Or maybe you want to brush up on your skills? Check out the below videos for some quick tips, or visit Paddling.com for even more expert advice!

Find More Instructional Videos on Paddling.com

Explore Washington's outdoors

This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.

This day celebrates Free Fishing Weekend - Fishing licenses are not required to fish for many species in Washington. See WDFW’s 2025 news release to learn more about the event. 

Best opportunities for anglers: Some great fishing opportunities available without a license on Free Fishing Weekend include:

• Rainbow trout and bass in lowland lakes across the state.

• Lingcod, cabezon, flounder, and sole in Puget Sound.

• Rockfish and surfperch on the Washington coast.

• Shad in the Columbia River.

• Fishing licenses are still required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut and all shellfish, including clams, crabs, mussels, oysters, and shrimp.

The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.

Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a 10 mile kayak paddle around Bachelor Island!

The Columbia River Water Trail is a wonderful place to explore by kayak.  Join Alder Creek Ridgefield team to paddle through the winding waterways around Bachelor Island on this full day tour!  A variety of birds and wildlife are often seen as we slip around the puzzle pieces of land and explore paths once traveled by native tribes and Lewis and Clark. 

This full day flat water tour is a terrific way to experience the beauty of the river and cover a little more distance. 

• Previous experience required.

• Paddle from our boathouse on the Lake River out to the Columbia River and around Bachelor Island.

• Total paddle length is about 10 miles.

• We stop on the beach along Bachelor Island to stretch our legs and have a snack.

• Hosted by Alder Creek Ridgefield, registration required HERE

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.

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.

You're invited! Join us for our annual Kids Fishing Fest!

Fishing for kids ages 5-14 with one of our expert fishing mentors

• Fishing pole for registered fishers

• Opportunity for registered fishers to catch and take home up to two fish

• Hands-on science and nature activities for all attendees

• BBQ lunch for all attendees (veggie options available)   

• Registration opens March 14! Advance registration for a fishing time slot and ticket purchase is required for all fishers and adults. Tickets are $8 per person. Kids under 5 are free. All ticket sales are final. 

• To register, please visit our website and purchase tickets for a one-hour time slot between 8am and 3pm. This time slot is the time that registered kids can line up to fish. All attendees are welcome to enjoy the rest of the festival for the duration of the event.

• Spots are limited! Register here: https://www.columbiasprings.org/KFF

• Note: the 10am-11am time slot is reserved for kids with disabilities and their families.

• Thank you to the event sponsors Neil Jones Food Company and Tidewater. In partnership with Clark Public Utilities and WDFW.

• Questions? Email events@columbiasprings.org