Paddleboarding spots (Vancouver, Salmon Creek, Camas: 2015, vs., moving to)

[AzDaperDan]

Hey folks,

I’ll be moving to Vancouver this summer for work and coming from AZ. Looking for some good spots paddleboard once I arrive this summer

Thanks

[texasdiver]

In 3..2..1...

MtnSurfer will be here to tell you all about paddle boarding in this area. Meanwhile you can look up on the photo thread above and see lots of paddle boarding.

[MtnSurfer]

Haha,

Well have I got *many* stories and tips to tell you. But the list is probably too long for one post. Generally speaking, you want to start this summer at Lacamas Lake. Then begin exploring the many other spots in the region and beyond. Keep in mind that WA and OR have an abundance of waterways. So, there's always new place to explore. I'll give you a few more. Then, you can always ask for more later. Check these spots out first:

* Lacamas Lake
* Cottonwood Beach
* Wintler Park
* Lake Merwin from Yale Bridge
* Vancouver Lake

Notice these are just on the WA side and not too far. Lacamas lake is my go-to year round local paddle spot. While Lake Merwin is the most visually stunning with waterfalls right down into the lake. So, its worth the extra drive. Just go early to avoid summer crowds.

Depending on your skill level, there are other places to explore which may be more challenging due to currents or waves at the beach.

If you're an avid year round paddler vs. summer only, you'll need to invest in some cold water gear once the temps drop in mid-late fall.

Lastly, join SUP PDX on facebook and keep tabs on all the local paddling events going on including group meetups.

Derek

[trailtramp]

Thought I would piggyback on your paddleboarding thread by asking what are some good 2-3 hour hikes within under an hour of downtown. Maybe some forest with water or views. Know of Salmon Creek Trail, but wanted to discover a few new spots. Will be back in mid September and want to get out for at least a few hikes.

[texasdiver]

Originally Posted by trailtramp

Thought I would piggyback on your paddleboarding thread by asking what are some good 2-3 hour hikes within under an hour of downtown. Maybe some forest with water or views. Know of Salmon Creek Trail, but wanted to discover a few new spots. Will be back in mid September and want to get out for at least a few hikes.

Lacamas Trail in Camas: https://www.cityofcamas.us/sites/def...railmap_hi.pdf

Cape Horn Trail: https://www.capehornconservancy.org/

Falls Creek Falls: https://gorgefriends.org/hike-the-go...eek-falls.html

The latter two are crowded on nice weekends but they are both gorgeous.

[MtnSurfer]

Originally Posted by trailtramp

Thought I would piggyback on your paddleboarding thread by asking what are some good 2-3 hour hikes within under an hour of downtown. Maybe some forest with water or views. Know of Salmon Creek Trail, but wanted to discover a few new spots. Will be back in mid September and want to get out for at least a few hikes.

Geesh, this is the land of hiking trails in almost every direction. It depends on the time of the year. When are you thinking? The Gorge alone has almost endless options with waterfalls and views of the river among other sites. It also depends on the difficulty level you're up for. They range from easy, moderate to hard with more elevation gain for the big views.

If summer, one of the lessor known but with really great views is Silver Star mountain just to the east of Vancouver. Without knowing you or your abilities, endurance level, etc... its a bit harder to gauge. With so much natural beauty nearby, the only limiting factor will be you. I highly recommend AllTrails with maps, detailed descriptions and recent trail reports. Here one from Silver Star as an example: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/w...se-vista-trail







For something a bit easier, try many of the waterfall and view hikes along the Gorge, some harder than others.






Lastly, take a look at the photos thread at the top where I share lots of pictures from local hikes and paddles.

Derek