Willamette River: George Rogers Park to Cathedral Park

The paddle from George Rogers City Park in Lake Oswego to Cathedral Park beneath the St. Johns Bridge is an exceptionally scenic 16 miles. Starting on the Willamette River in Lake Oswego, you will pass bridges, mansions and river-industry ruins. There is considerable wildlife to see along the way, including sea lions, numerous species of birds and the occasional deer on shore. As you proceed to downtown Portland, the bridges will become more frequent—and so will the boating traffic. Overall, it is a safe paddle trip, as kayaks and small racing "dragon boats" are on the river year round. In total, you will pass under 13 bridges. Paddling the Willamette River through this stretch also gives you access to numerous landmarks besides the bridges, including the OMSI USS Blueback submarine, Tom McCall Waterfront Park and views of Portland's port industries.