Paddle Boarding Portland: The Best Places to SUP in the City
If you're looking for an unforgettable way to explore the waterways of the Pacific Northwest, paddle boarding Portland is where it’s at! Whether you're gliding through the heart of the city on the Willamette River, taking in breathtaking views of Mount Hood at Trillium Lake, or searching for a peaceful escape at Lost Lake, Portland offers incredible paddleboarding locations for every type of adventurer.
From calm lakes perfect for beginners to challenging river currents for experienced paddlers, you'll find some of the best places to paddle board in Oregon right here. If you’re new to the sport, check out this guide on the best paddle boards for beginners to get started.
Why Paddle Boarding Portland Oregon Is So Popular
There’s a reason why paddleboarding Portland Oregon has exploded in popularity—actually, there are several!
- Year-round paddling: Thanks to Portland’s mild climate, you can SUP almost any time of the year.
- Diverse locations: Whether you love urban paddling or remote lakes, Portland has it all.
- Beginner-friendly & challenging waters: From calm, flatwater lakes to the thrilling currents of the Columbia River, there's something for every skill level.
Wondering how to paddle a stand-up paddleboard? Check out this ultimate guide before hitting the water.
Best Places for Paddle Boarding Portland Oregon
Portland is packed with amazing paddleboarding locations, whether you’re looking for a peaceful float or an adrenaline rush. Here are the top spots to get your SUP adventure started:
Scappoose Bay: A Peaceful Escape for SUP in Portland
Tucked away just outside of Portland, Scappoose Bay is a tranquil paddleboarding location filled with wildlife and gorgeous scenery. This beginner-friendly spot has calm waters, making it a great place to learn SUP techniques or even try SUP yoga.
Trillium Lake: The Most Scenic Portland Paddle Boarding Spot
Imagine gliding across glass-like waters with a postcard-perfect view of Mount Hood reflecting on the surface. That’s Trillium Lake! This peaceful destination is perfect for beginners, families, and SUP yoga enthusiasts. It’s also less crowded on weekdays, so plan your trip accordingly!
Willamette River: The Heart of Portland Paddle Boarding
Want to paddle through the city while enjoying Portland’s skyline? The Willamette River is your go-to spot! It has multiple launch points, offers both short and long-distance routes, and is popular for fitness paddlers. Check out this SUP board size guide to find the best board for river paddling.
Hood River: A Top Spot for SUP in Portland
Located just an hour from Portland, Hood River is a dream location for more experienced paddlers. With its stunning Columbia River Gorge views and challenging currents, it’s perfect for those looking to level up their SUP skills. If you're looking for a durable, hard paddleboard, check out this collection.
Sellwood Riverfront Park: Calm Waters for Beginners
New to SUP? Sellwood Riverfront Park has gentle waters and easy access points, making it a top pick for first-timers. You can rent paddleboards on-site and even bring your four-legged friend along for the ride—yes, it’s dog-friendly!
Lost Lake: A Hidden Gem for Paddle Boarding Portland Oregon
If you want a peaceful, nature-filled paddle, Lost Lake is an underrated gem. Nestled in the forest, it offers crystal-clear water and fewer crowds than other spots. Ideal for SUP fishing or just escaping the city for a bit.
Other Notable Paddle Boarding Locations in Portland
- Lacamas Lake – A serene, tree-lined lake.
- Clackamette Park – A river paddling spot with sandy beaches.
- Estacada Lake – A protected four-mile stretch of water.
- Sand Island Marine Park – A more advanced paddleboarding location with Columbia River access.
For the best SUP gear and accessories, visit Hydrus Board Tech.
Other Paddle Boarding Locations to Check Out
Looking to paddle outside of Portland? Here are some other amazing places to explore:
FAQs About Paddle Boarding Portland Oregon
Can you paddleboard in Portland?
Absolutely! Paddleboarding Portland Oregon is one of the best ways to explore the city's lakes and rivers.
What are the best places to paddle board in Oregon near Portland?
Some must-visit spots include Hood River, Trillium Lake, and Lost Lake.
Do you need a permit for paddle boarding in Portland?
In some areas, you’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee.
Where can I rent a paddleboard in Portland?
Check out Scappoose Bay, Willamette Park, and Hood River for SUP rentals.
Is paddle boarding in Portland beginner-friendly?
Yes! Sellwood Riverfront Park and Lacamas Lake are perfect for first-timers.
What’s the best time of year for paddle boarding Portland Oregon?
Summer is ideal, but you can paddle from spring through fall thanks to mild weather.
Can you paddle board in the Columbia River?
Yes, but it’s best suited for experienced paddlers due to strong currents.
Where can I try SUP yoga in Portland?
Head to Scappoose Bay or the Willamette River for SUP yoga classes.
Can I paddle board with my dog in Portland?
Absolutely! Lost Lake and Sellwood Riverfront Park are pet-friendly.
For more tips, check out this guide on what to wear paddle boarding.
Why Choose Hydrus Board Tech for Your SUP Gear?
At Hydrus Board Tech, we craft high-performance paddle boards built for every condition. Whether you need an inflatable paddle board or a hard-shell SUP, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our top-rated boards:
Need help? Contact us!
Get Out on the Water: Start Paddle Boarding Portland Today!
There’s no better time to experience paddle boarding Portland! Whether you're a first-time paddler or a SUP pro, Portland’s lakes and rivers have something for everyone.
Grab a Hydrus paddle board and hit the water today!