Lewis River + Squaw Island Canoe/Kayak

Just north of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and only 3.5 miles from the Columbia River, the Lewis River and East Fork Lewis River converge into what becomes the main stem of the Lewis River.  This broad body of water is a relaxing paddle, but the highlight is certainly the secluded beaches that face the Columbia River.  To reach Squaw Island (private property), paddle 1.8 miles west and plenty of options will unfold.  If it is late spring or early summer and waters are high, explore Gee Creek, which opens up after 1.9 miles into the gorgeous, wildlife-rich, oak and camas-lined Lancaster Lake.  If you have a kayak and feel comfortable in open water, head 0.5 miles across the Columbia to Warrior Rock Lighthouse on the very northern point of Sauvie Island.  If the aforementioned beaches are your focus, paddle an additional 0.3 miles south of Squaw Island (where Lake River meets up with the Columbia) to a big, open, sun-drenched beach.