Kayak the Gorge: Columbia River Gorge Paddle Adventures

The Columbia River Gorge cuts a dramatic corridor through the Pacific Northwest, where steep cliffs spill into a river carved over millennia. At Cascade Locks, Oregon, Kayak The Gorge offers a gateway to this iconic landscape, where water meets wilderness in dynamic harmony. With options for single and double kayaks or standup paddleboards, this outfitter invites adventurers of all levels to get on the water and witness how the gorge's unique geology and ecology unfold at river level.

The Gorge is renowned for its layered basalt cliffs, sculpted by volcanic flows and sculpted further by glacial floods. Here, during your paddle, you’ll float past old-growth forests, splash against hidden coves, and keep an eye out for bald eagles nesting in the towering Douglas firs.

Kayak The Gorge distinguishes itself through its intimate tours and flexible rentals, perfect for casual paddlers or wildlife watchers bringing dogs along for the ride. Many guests rave about the peace found in calm river arms while spotting ducks, eagles, and other riparian wildlife. The calm cove near their launch site offers a perfect place to pause, picnic, and soak in the tranquility.

The guides bring local expertise and a laid-back attitude, shaping each trip into a personalized adventure tailored to skill and interest. Whether you want a sunset paddle, a serene wildlife viewing mission, or an easy way to disconnect from daily noise, this outfitter serves as a reliable steward of the Gorge’s storied river landscapes.

Cascade Locks sits within a larger recreation area that boasts hiking, windsurfing, and fishing, but it’s from Kayak The Gorge’s boats that visitors get the closest perspective on the Gorge’s layered history and living ecosystem. This combination of access, atmosphere, and friendly expertise makes Kayak The Gorge a standout choice for Columbia River paddling experiences.