Getting connected in a new community can be challenging. Whether you’ve just taken your first beginner kayaking course, or are just new to kayaking in the Columbia Gorge, Portland, & the greater Pacific Northwest, we’ve compiled all the best groups, clubs, and resources to help you find your way in the kayaking community.
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are a great space to find used gear or connect with new paddling partners. Here are some of our favorites:
- PDX Kayaker is a group for paddler in the greater Portland area, including the Columbia River Gorge.
- PDX Girlpaddlers is a group for female paddlers in the greater Portland area, including the Columbia River Gorge.
- Ladies of the Whitewater Community is a group with representation from female-identifying paddlers from all over the world.
Paddling Clubs
Paddling clubs can be another great way to get connected. These membership-based organizations organize group paddling trips on local rivers, and some organize skill-building events and courses. Here are a few clubs in the Pacific Northwest.
- Lower Columbia Canoe Club (LCCC)
- Oregon Kayak and Canoe Club (OKCC)
- Willamette Kayak and Canoe Club (WKCC)
- Washington Recreation River Runners (WRRR)
- Wet Planet partners with WRRR to offer an annual River Rescue Course for the club on the Cedar River!
Learning how to unpin a kayak in a River Rescue Course
Guidebooks
- Soggy Sneakers: A Paddler’s Guide to Oregon Rivers is an incredible resource for exploring new runs, with details on rapids, access, difficulty, and more.
- Paddling Pacific Northwest Whitewater is a guide to the best rivers and creeks in Washington and Oregon.
Helpful Websites
- American Whitewater in addition to being stewards of American waterways, protecting access, and representing whitewater enthusiasts across the nation, AW provides great information on runs, including access points, ideal flows, and more.
- Dreamflows is the place to find river flows all in one spot, with information on scheduled releases, access points, and more.
The different branches of the Hood River on Dreamflows
Wet Planet Courses
Wet Planet courses are a great place to meet other kayakers at your skill level! If you’ve just taken the Beginner Kayaking Course, the Beginner Refresher is the best next step. Beyond beginner, there are a number of courses that you can look forward to as you progress in the awesome sport of whitewater kayaking!
