Ross Island Kayak Tour

I take a tour of Ross Island from the water. Kayaking on the Willamette!

Last week I took a day off work so I could play kickball with Jacob’s team in the evening… but I didn’t want to waste my day.  So I decided to do something I’ve always wanted to try… kayaking on the Willamette River! I booked a spot on a Ross Island Tour through Portland Kayak Company and spend the morning on the river.  It was fantastic.  The guides were amazing young women who were fun, enthusiastic and full of information about the island.  The tour started at 10am, we were on the water by 10:30 then spent 2 hours on the water traveling under the Marquam, Tillicum and Ross Island Bridges before crossing the channel to Ross Island.  During our paddle we saw a sailing camp with a dozen kids in miniature sail boats, some of the so-called “River Pirates” and a hand full of heron living on the island. The guides told us that they have seen coyote, deer and bald eagles on other tours.  It was a good workout but we took plenty of breaks too.   After the 2-hour paddle I felt great, a little tired and a little sunburned (oops!) but really good.
So if you are visiting Portland or are just like me and want to spend more time enjoying the water, try a kayak tour.  I liked Portland Kayak Company, but there are a lot of companies that offer them.  What I’m really recommending is a tour around Ross Island.  It’s a great length and beautiful.  Sorry I don’t have any good photos.  They talked me out of taking my cell phone and I’ve been kicking myself for leaving it behind ever since.