The Columbia Gorge Paddle Festival, held annually in Boardman, Oregon, offers anglers, paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts a unique plunge into the dynamic and spirited waterway that is the Columbia River. This event is more than a paddle day—it’s a full immersion in river culture, inviting you to engage directly with a river that pushes you forward with its persistent current and bold spirit.

Boardman’s stretch of the Columbia dares adventurers with diverse water conditions that range from calm pools to energized rapids, making it ideal for kayakers, canoeists, stand-up paddleboarders, and even those who want to test the power of the river close to shore. Whether you’re a newcomer wanting to try flatwater paddling or an experienced paddler looking for technical runs, the festival bridges those experiences, offering workshops, races, and free paddle demos to help find your flow.

The festival takes place along the Columbia River Gorge, an area defined by rugged cliffs and relentless winds that sculpt the landscape and push your craft downstream with force. The water is a force fiercely itself, flowing over basalt shelves and around rocky bends. As you dip your paddle, you’ll sense the river’s temperament firsthand—sometimes gentle, sometimes demanding respect.

Practical details matter here. The event typically runs over three days in early June, giving paddlers the advantage of late spring warmth and seasonal water flows that vary with snowmelt runoff upstream. Water temperatures hover in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit, so wetsuits or splash gear are advisable. Boardman’s location also offers relatively flat terrain, so access points and launching zones are easily navigable for all skill levels.

Packing the right gear matters: a sturdy paddle, a reliable PFD, a helmet if you’re tackling rapids, and waterproof layers. Hydration is key, especially with the dry, open air of the Columbia Basin pushing warm winds across the river. A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are essential to fend off the sun that claims the sky for much of the day.

The festival also emphasizes community and conservation, with guided talks on river ecology, local fish species, and preserving the Columbia’s health for future paddlers. Nearby campgrounds and hotels in Boardman make it accessible for multi-day visits, and local eateries provide hearty fare to refuel after a day on the water.

Participating in the Columbia Gorge Paddle Festival is an opportunity to meet the river on its terms—to challenge your balance, skill, and pace against a force actively shaping the land and those who navigate it. The festival’s blend of education, competition, and pure river joy captures the essence of adventure that’s practical, invigorating, and deeply connected to place.