Contact Coordinators at Paddle@cascadeprimetimers.org
Paddling trips are appropriate for recreational kayaks, sea kayaks and canoes. They are for all skill levels with most trips good for beginner/intermediate levels. We try to schedule at least two day trips each month from May through October. It's most convenient if you own your watercraft and have the means to transport it to the start. However, we do try to schedule some trips from starting locations where kayak rentals are available for those who don’t have their own.
Our day paddles are in the greater Portland area in Oregon and Washington. We paddle on quiet slow rivers, some rivers with level #1 and #2 rapids, lakes from small to large, and on ocean inlets and bays. For those who would like to go farther afield, CPT members plan multiday paddling trips and paddling is often included at multiday trip destinations where other summer activities are also part of the experience.
We target our day trips for dry days and cancel when heavy rain, wind or threat of lightning is in the forecast. However, if it is not too cold and only light rain is predicted, we may still do the paddle. When properly equipped and dressed, wet weather paddles are sometimes the best experiences for scenery and animal viewing.
Paddling provides opportunities to get up close with many forms of wildlife (ducks, herons, eagles, otters, seals, turtles, song birds, seabirds, fish, beaver, moose, deer, etc.). A great thing about kayaking is being able move along at a leisurely pace while getting to know other paddling enthusiasts. Our experienced paddlers are very friendly and helpful in guiding those of us new to the sport.