Portland, OR: Columbia Slough
This kid-friendly paddle explores the narrow waterways of the Columbia Slough where heaps of birds and wildlife hide along the brushy banks.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
-Mapped by Joe Kurmaskie
Trail Facts
- Distance: 2.0
Waypoints
CST001
Location: 45.5551834106445, -122.490531921387
From lot, go L and down a gentle slope to wooden dock
CST002
Location: 45.5552825927734, -122.488716125488
Launch boat and paddle E, tracing Upper Slough to Fairview Lake. Muddy shoreline lined with oaksand alders.
CST003
Location: 45.5550994873047, -122.485633850098
Swing boat S
CST004
Location: 45.5531349182129, -122.48503112793
Paddle under a bridge overpass; herons hide in cattail-lined banks
Optional: Jog R to explore side channel with small eddies and cottonwoods
CST005
Location: 45.5522842407227, -122.484985351562
Slough widens; dragonflies dart around; wildflowers on banks
CST006
Location: 45.5507316589356, -122.484367370605
Paddle to R of island into Fairview Lake; look for mouth of Fairview Creek during high season (winter and spring) on the R. Backtrack to WPT 3 and continue NW
CST007
Location: 45.5556488037109, -122.486503601074
Turn R into channel (heading N)
CST008
Location: 45.5581016540527, -122.481552124023
Drift along elder- and dogwood-shaded stretch; river is deeper and runs slightly faster. Kingfishers, turtles, and wood ducks all around. Follow to dam, then backtrack to WPT 7 and turn R back to dock
CST009
Location: 45.5553321838379, -122.496047973633
Explore more: From dock, head W to find plenty more creatures (green frogs, waterfowl). Paddleas far as you want (up to 12 more mi.), but a good turnaround point is @ entrance to Johnson Lake