Columbia Slough Canoe Launch
location_onMultnomah, OR
About Columbia Slough Canoe Launch
Exploring the Serene Waterways of Columbia Slough in Washington
Tucked away in the heart of Multnomah County, Washington, the Columbia Slough offers a unique and tranquil paddling experience for kayakers, canoeists, and nature enthusiasts. Designated as a stream by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), this 19-mile-long urban waterway provides a sheltered and calming oasis for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Situated just north of Portland, the Columbia Slough is part of a larger network of waterways and wetlands that stretch across the region. These calm, slow-moving streams and sloughs are a common sight in the area, providing valuable habitat for wildlife and offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those new to the sport of kayaking, the Columbia Slough presents an ideal starting point, with its protected waters and minimal motorized boat traffic.
Gear up for Columbia Slough Canoe Launch
Recommended paddling gear matched to the conditions at this spot. Every item ships from Amazon.
Perfect for flat lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Great starter gear for beginners.
Recreational Sit-On-Top Kayak
Kayak
Stable, easy to get in and out, self-draining — ideal for calm water paddling.
Adjustable Kayak Paddle
Paddle
Lightweight aluminum or fiberglass. Adjustable length fits different kayak widths.
USCG-Approved PFD
Life Vest
Legally required in most states. Get one designed for paddling — allows full arm movement.
Dry Bag (20L)
Storage
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry. 20L fits a half-day's worth of gear.
Kayak Anchor Kit
Anchor
Essential for fishing or photography — holds position in wind and light current.
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reviewsWhat Paddlers Say
“I recently had the pleasure of renting paddleboards and kayaks from MB Watersports Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals, and I must say it was an absolute blast! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the rental process smooth and efficient. They took the time to explain the rules of the water, provide safety instructions, and even offered some great tips on where to paddle and kayak in the area. The paddleboards and kayaks themselves were in excellent condition and well-maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. The equipment was easy to use, and the staff was happy to provide guidance and support as needed. One of the things that really impressed me about MB Watersports was their commitment to customer satisfaction. The staff was always available to answer questions, provide assistance, and ensure that I had a great time on the water. In addition to the excellent service, the prices at MB Watersports were very reasonable and competitive, offering great value for the quality of service and product provided. I was able to rent a paddleboard or kayak for a very affordable price, which made it easy to try out a new activity without breaking the bank. Overall, I would highly recommend MB Watersports Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals to anyone looking to explore South Beach from a different perspective. The combination of friendly staff, well-maintained equipment, and competitive prices makes for a fantastic experience that I would gladly repeat in the future.”
“My boyfriend and I rented two paddle boards for two hours. Jorge was great! He had them set up on the water and ready to go by the time we got there. He told us the different routes we can go and what we would find on each route. The water conditions were fine, a little tough against the current but nothing too crazy. Jorge was flexible with time and very friendly. Only request is to honor the prices on the website. The prices that were given to me when I called were double what was listed on the site. I showed the site and he immediately agreed and charged us whatever the site had said but it would’ve been nice to have been told the same. We paid $45 for two boards/2 hours on a weekday which is very fair.”
“When we entered the store to rent . everything was great we paid $50 and took the kayaking boat we went to the sea but we didn't know how to use it and we were very scared so we returned the boat after exactly 7 minutes, when we returned it we asked the young man if we could get some of the money back but he left us while we were talking and started joking and talking with his friend, meaning what we understood is that the only thing that matters to them is money 😆, if he had told us that we couldn't get the money back but in a polite and courteous way I wouldn't have been upset, honestly”
From Google reviews. Showing the most detailed recent visitor notes.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere can I launch my kayak on the Columbia Slough?
The Columbia Slough has a designated Canoe Launch access point where you can put in your kayak.
help_outlineWhat skill level is required for kayaking the Columbia Slough?
The Columbia Slough is considered a calm waterbody, making it suitable for beginner and intermediate kayakers.
help_outlineWhat gear should I bring for kayaking the Columbia Slough?
Bring standard kayaking gear such as a life jacket, paddle, and any additional safety equipment. The water is calm, but it's still important to be prepared.
help_outlineCan I fish while kayaking the Columbia Slough?
Yes, you can fish in the Columbia Slough, but a valid fishing license is required, as per standard state regulations.
help_outlineWhat is the best season for kayaking the Columbia Slough?
The Columbia Slough is best enjoyed for kayaking during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
help_outlineIs the Columbia Slough accessible for families and people with disabilities?
The Columbia Slough has a designated Canoe Launch access point, which provides public access and should be accessible for families and people with disabilities.
help_outlineIs there any motorboat traffic on the Columbia Slough?
The Columbia Slough has a boat ramp, so there may be some motorboat traffic, but it is generally considered a calm waterbody.
Location
Contact & Info
wavesTide Forecast
From Vancouver station (5 km away)
Low Tide
Jun 16 at 2:03 AM
0.7 ft
High Tide
Jun 16 at 6:58 AM
2.9 ft
Low Tide
Jun 16 at 4:02 PM
-0.1 ft
High Tide
Jun 16 at 8:32 PM
1.7 ft
Low Tide
Jun 17 at 3:08 AM
0.6 ft
High Tide
Jun 17 at 7:49 AM
2.7 ft
Data from NOAA CO-OPS. Predictions only — check local conditions before paddling.