![]() Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just taking your first strokes, Hosmer Lake is an excellent place to experience the best of Oregon. If you want to stretch your legs and take a break from being on the water, take a stroll around hiking trails that encircle the lake’s edge. There’s also a restaurant at the Resort so you can grab a bite when you’ve worked up an appetite. ![]() There are campsites dotted around the shore, as well as cabins for rent at the Clear Lake Resort, but make sure you reserve early as this popular destination is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. ![]() Geologic features such as lava flows line the eastern shore of the lake, and it is possible to see remnants of the sunken forest that once covered the region. No motorboats are permitted which contributes to the peacefulness of the area. Like its name implies, this spring-fed lake is crystal clear and thus is teeming with wildlife. No matter how long you spend, a trip down the Willamette is sure to be unforgettable. Plan a short day trip or make preparations for a longer multi-day journey. Once a major travel route for steamships and riverboats, the river is now a favorite destination for adventure seekers of all types. Flowing almost 190 miles north from Eugene to Portland, and passing through the cities of Corvallis and Salem along the way, history is steeped in the waters of this river that has shaped the past, present, and future of Oregon. Most people are familiar with the Willamette River as one of the major waterways in the state. In autumn, the hillsides are awash with the colors of fall, making for a truly spectacular experience. The lake is stocked with trout and is open from the middle of March through October. The nearby Milo McIver State Park is a popular camping destination, so you can spend all day exploring the area and spend all night recharging for a repeat the next day. This lake is a favorite destination for Portland residents who want to experience a more peaceful environment without a long drive. Nestled pristinely at the base of the Cascade Range sits Estacada Lake. Plan a stop in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin, Lake Oswego, or West Linn for a snack as you enjoy fishing and bird watching along the way. Starting in the Coast Range and flowing almost 80 miles east to its confluence with the Willamette, the river passes through several towns along the way. Because the size of the river varies, larger craft are not able to navigate the waters which makes for a peaceful cruise. If you are interested in an extended trip that will provide exciting changes in scenery, the Tualatin is an outstanding option. Make sure to check the tide charts before visiting the river as water levels can change seasonally. Paddlers and boaters aren’t the only ones who flock to this area–a large population of wildlife such as bald eagles, blue herons, river otters, beavers, walleye, bass, and sturgeon are known to inhabit the area as well. This 4.5 mile waterway is easily accessible by a Wildlife Management Area (though it charges a $7 fee for parking) and is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts of all types. Waterfowl and birds of prey are common sights and can make for some impressive entertainment as you paddle the serene waters of this area. ![]() Since the lake is stocked with trout, it becomes a popular fishing destination when it opens for the season in early March. There are picnic locations dotted around the lake’s shore and boat ramps for easy access to the water. Located 35 miles west of Portland, this man-made lake is fed by multiple rivers and creeks and offers an excellent paddling opportunity as well as surrounding amenities. Well worth the 30 minute drive from Portland, this is a must-visit destination if you’re in the area. The Bay can be enjoyed year round, but locals recommend early spring as the best time of year–runoff from the surrounding snowpack melt inundates the Bay, causing the water level to rise and permitting paddlers the unique chance to paddle amongst alders and other trees that are temporarily flooded with spring melt. Pick your route wisely to avoid downed trees that make travel challenging, as many of the waterways can be narrow and must be navigated with caution. Numerous creeks and estuaries feed into the bay, providing a seemingly endless maze of places to discover. There is no shortage of exploration potential at this incredible location. Pack up your paddle board, here are ten places you won’t want to miss in the Beaver State: Scappoose Bay It’s easy to escape the convenience of the major cities and find yourself surrounded by natural beauty. From sea level at the coast to high alpine lakes, Oregon is home to some spectacular waterways. ![]()
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