Over 20 million people participate in one form of paddling or another—canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. There are various reasons why people enjoy paddling:
Exploring nature
Fishing
Running whitewater rivers
Exercise
Canoeing and kayaking are low-impact activities that:
Improve cardiovascular fitness
Strengthen arm, back, chest, and shoulder muscles
Increase leg and torso strength
Improve mental health
Burn calories
Just one hour of canoeing or kayaking burns between 224–287 calories. Being out on a quiet lake or river surrounded by nature can have a tremendous calming effect that relieves stress and can even be meditative.
We’re fortunate to live in Oregon, which is blessed with magnificent scenery, crystal-clear lakes, abundant wildlife, towering trees, and temperate weather, all factors that make paddling in the state a popular recreational activity. Whether you prefer paddling quiet lakes and gentle rivers, hurtling down whitewater rivers, exploring bays or offshore islands, or paddling in and out of marshes, there are plenty of paddling choices in Oregon to satisfy you.
Never paddled before? There are several clubs in and around Portland and Salem with people more than happy to teach you how. Several canoe and kayak retailers are also happy to provide instruction and allow you to demo boats to help you determine if a canoe or kayak is better suited for you.
Join Canoe & Kayak Oregon on one of the many trips we lead on various rivers and lakes in Oregon and explore the outdoors, observe the wildlife, and reap the health benefits of paddling.
