George Rogers Park: The Evening Loop
Getting There: Map and Directions / About 15 minutes from Downtown Portland
Crowds: On hot Summer days be prepared to park up above in the long lot or on a residential street and walk. The lower parking lot is nearly always full after noon on any given day, weekends being the most packed of course.
Food / Supplies: Lake Oswego!
SUP / Kayak Rentals: Alder Creek (Located at the park)
This is a short and relaxing paddle on the Willamette River that is a perfect way to cap off a hot Summer day chained to a desk. It is a short drive from most Portland addresses, and if you can get there before noon, you may have a shot at finding a spot to park in the much coveted lower parking lot. Otherwise, be prepared to either wait for a spot or walk a short distance from the upper parking area.
After walking down the stairs in front of the beach or the driveway on the left to the small boat launch, launching is easy.
My evening loop is always upstream or paddling southeast on the Willamette. I either cross to the east side and hug that shoreline or keep to the west side. Either choice is fine, just be cautious if you cross the river at any time, as there are sure to be power boats, jet skis and plenty of motorized boat activity on any given Summers day.
Head upstream to little Hog Island and enjoy the serenity of the passage on the west side where a speed zone is enforced. There are a few tiny beaches there that offer a nice place to rest and grab a snack or take a swim. You can explore Hog Island on foot, and there are some craggy rock outcroppings on the east side that I admit to have jumped from before. Just make sure you check what is below carefully before leaping if this is part of your adventure!
After rounding the island from either side, pick a shoreline and hug it on your way back. There are some beautiful homes and dock arrangements on the east side of the river that are bound to produce some envy!
The whole trip takes about an hour or so, depending on what board you are using and how leisurely you want to make your paddle.
Note: A strong headwind can stir up in the evening for the paddle back to the park, so be prepared!
