Explore Vancouver Lake from a whole new perspective! Join the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Vancouver’s Water Center education staff for a free family-friendly canoe paddle aboard 29-foot, 14-passenger Big Canoes! Glide past shore birds, look for signs of beaver activity, and learn about the Columbia River ecosystem from seasoned paddle guides and educators.

Plan to paddle for 1 to 1.5 hours in Estuary Partnership’s Big Canoes along with other participants, and walk under 1/4 of a mile on gravel, muddy/sandy beaches, and uneven terrain. Paddlers must be able to step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for the duration of the paddle program. Big Canoe paddles are suitable for ages 6 and older. Previous paddling experience is not required!

Advanced registration is required and space is limited. Sign up today: https://www.cityofvancouver.us/events/vancouver-lake-community-paddle-trip-2/

You will receive a confirmation letter with full event details, meeting location, and how to prepare for your event after registration. If you need to cancel, please do so at your earliest convenience to allow your spot to be filled by someone on the waitlist.

Who can paddle?

Big Canoe trips are suitable for ages 6 and older.
Previous paddling experience is not necessary.
Paddlers must step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for 1.5 hours.
Do I need any equipment or special gear?

Please come prepared for the weather with raingear or a hat and sunscreen/sun protection.
Personal flotation devices (PFD’s) in youth – XXL are provided.
This paddle trip will depart from a small sand patch and not a dock so waterproof shoes or sandals are recommended. Old tennis shoes work great, too.
Can I bring my camera or cell phone?

Yes. Be advised that we cannot guarantee the safety of electronic devices and do not offer dry bags. Occasional splashes and rain make the bottom of the boat wet, but typically gear in a pocket will stay dry.
How safe are paddle trips?

Safety is always our first priority. Our guides are trained in on-water rescue, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid.
Water activities carry inherent risk; guides take precautions to ensure a safe paddling experience.
See our safety protocols or contact us for more information.

If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.

Contact: Water Resources Education Center at 360-487-7111 or email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us