Paddling Rentals at Bend Kayak School in Drake Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some basic paddling endurance needed.
Overview
Experience easy river access with Bend Kayak School’s 2.5-hour kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals delivered curbside at Drake Park. Enjoy smooth paddling on Mirror Pond and a refreshing finish with local food and drinks.
2.5 Hour Rental with Delivery to the River
We Meet You at Pageant Park, Across the Bridge from Drake Park! (Kayaks, Paddleboards, Tandem Kayak)
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of paddling in beautiful Drake Park with convenient curbside gear delivery. Choose from kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes, and enjoy a leisurely 2.5-hour rental. After your adventure, relax with a meal and drinks overlooking Mirror Pond, making for a perfect day of outdoor fun and relaxation.
Rates
- Single Kayak Rental: $39
- Tandem Kayak Rental: $69
- 10' Stand Up Paddleboard Rental: $39
- 12' 6" Paddleboard Rental: $40
- Canoe Rental. $80
About
Have your gear delivered to you at the curb across the wooden footbridge from Drake Park (next to Pageant Park), and just across the grass from a small dock!
- We provide paddles, PFDs (flotation vests) and your paddle craft.
- Remember to sign your waivers before you arrive.
- We will have your gear on wheels, and you can wheel it into the park after we give you quick rundown on your gear and the area that you will paddle.
We have extended the 2 hour rental to a 2.5 hour curb to curb rental to accommodate time for you to get on and off of the water.#
There is often not parking on the street, so we recommend first Park downtown and then walk across the river to the park and put in at the dock to paddle through Drake Park to the base of the whitewater park and back to your put in location, you can also paddle around on Mirror Pond down to Brooks Park and then back up again.
Finish your paddle off with a brew and lunch on the grass overlooking Mirror Pond at Bend Brewing Company, a coffee or brew at the Commons Cafe or any of the restaurants downtown since if you walk across the footbridge it is all right there!
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Sign Waivers
Complete your rental waiver before arrival to save time and ensure a smooth pickup process.
Use Downtown Parking
Street parking near Drake Park is limited; park downtown and walk across the footbridge to the rental spot.
Bring Sun Protection
Even on calm water, UV exposure can be intense—wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water or plan to grab a drink nearby—paddling can be deceptively exerting.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters playing near the riverbanks
- Great blue herons stalking shallow waters
History
Drake Park was established as a public space in the early 20th century, preserving the waters and scenic backdrop around Mirror Pond.
Conservation
Bend Kayak School emphasizes low-impact paddling practices to protect the delicate river ecosystem and nearby wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bend
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable on and off the water under warm sun.
summer specific
Waterproof footwear
Protects feet during launches and exits on wet docks or banks.
Sun hat and sunglasses
Essential for shielding from intense sun glare off the water.
summer specific
Light windbreaker
A handy layer against cool breezes on the water.
spring specific