Paddle Around Ross Island
Sellwood Riverfront Park - Search Nearby - Added by Ty Rauber
A fun flat-water paddle in the heart of Portland. Enjoy a picnic on the island before heading back. An easy 5 miles of paddling. Duration: Half day.
This is a great little adventure for those looking to get on the water, but who don’t have time to escape the city. Paddle the loop around Ross Island for a scenic workout and a relaxing picnic.
To begin your loop, put-in at Sellwood Riverfront Park – it features easy parking and sandy beach at almost every water level. As you make your way over to Ross Island, keep an eye out for eagles, blue herons, deer, and river otters. Although Ross Island is privately owned, you are free to wander and picnic along the beach area (below the “ordinary high water mark”). When you’re ready to complete your loop, head out around the island and return to Sellwood.
Although Holgate Channel (on the east side of the island) is now a No Wake Zone, there is still a large barge that runs along the Holgate Channel…so keep an eye peeled and steer clear.
Stand Up Paddle, Kayaking
Nearby Lodging
Community Photos
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Reviews
Overall rating:
In the Heart of Portland
This is a wonderful adventure on a sunny day, because you can experience the beautiful city from a peaceful kayak. A relaxing and fun experience!
If you don't own a kayak, start this route at the Willamette Park and rent one at Portland Kayak Co. for $12/hour! That's what I did, and it was a blast. It was surprisingly peaceful, and it's nice to have such an adventure right in our backyards (for Portlanders). To read more about my experience, check out my blog: http://cleanspiritblog.com/2015/09/05/kayaking-around-ross-island-portland-oregon/
