Frequently Asked Questions - Tualatin River Water Trail

Do I need a Waterway Access Permit to bring my paddlecraft on to the Tualatin? If so, where do I get a permit and how much does it cost?

Yes. As of 2026, a Waterway Access Permit is required for all paddlecraft (canoes, kayaks, standup paddleboards) whether they are more or less than 10 feet long. The permit can be purchased through the ODFW app or at www.odfw.gov. A one year permit is $10. Note: the permit fee goes to a good cause. It is used to fund wide ranging efforts to prevent and eliminate invasive species from our waterways.

What should I do if I experience an emergency or see someone having an emergency?

Wood is the chief hazard – typically logs, root wads and other wood extending from the shoreline or bobbing in the current. If you or your craft make contact with such debris, you can be stopped, get caught, and even capsize. Always scan ahead and stay on the lookout, if you see ripples, know that a change in the surface of the water on the Tualatin is most likely a wood obstruction. There are two low head dams on the river: Lake Oswego Corp Diversion Core Dam (RM 3.4) and Licorice Lane Farm Dam (RM 38.6). Low head dams are very dangerous. The flow over the dam can form a circulating current which traps and drowns paddlers. Low head dams are difficult to see. Stay away!

Why is it important to always wear a life jacket when on the river?

A life jacket is a lot like a bicycle helmet. It is a life saver when things unexpectedly go wrong. Even though the Tualatin River is generally a slow moving river, even the strongest swimmers can get caught in a snag, tangled in a rope, trapped under a boat, etc. where they can’t escape, but would be saved by wearing a life jacket. Paddlers should also have other Essential Paddling Gear

What should I do if I encounter a new hazard or trash on the river?

Report the issue to the Tualatin Riverkeepers using this link.

Where can I rent a paddlecraft next to the river?

The following vendors offer paddlecraft rentals on weekends: Tualatin Riverkeepers at Cook Family Park, Alder Creek at Brown’s Ferry Park, eNRG Kayaking at Willamette Park.

What speed will I typically achieve when on the river?

It depends on your paddling skill, effort level, fitness, the type of paddlecraft you are using, and the speed of the current. Generally speaking 2 miles per hour can be achieved by a typical paddler who is consistently paddling. More energetic paddlers may achieve a speed of 3 miles per hour particularly on a section of the river with a current. The estimated paddling times in the Tualatin River Water Trail Padder’s Guide are based on a speed of 2 miles per hour.

How do I plan a trip on the water trail?

The Oregon State Marine Board’s non-motorized boating and paddling information is a great place to begin.

Visit the Tualatin River Water Trail website to familiarize yourself with the river access details, current hazards, points of interest, estimated paddling time, etc.
Dress appropriately for the water and weather to avoid hypothermia.
Let someone know where you are going, the route you are taking, and when you expect to return.
Stay alert and be prepared for unexpected season changes to the river (new hazards, launch changes, etc.)

How do I make my river outing a good experience for everyone?

Be Courteous

Be considerate of other river users. Quickly put in and take out if others are waiting. Stay out of the way of other paddlers. Keep a respectful distance from people fishing both from the shore and on boats.

Respect Private Property

Stay away from all private property including land, docks, irrigation intakes, crayfish traps, etc. When in doubt, assume the property is private property.

Give Wildlife Space

Keep a respectful distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing the animals. Don’t approach animals particularly turtles who depend on basking time to heat themselves and birds who can be startled. Minimize walking on the riverbend to limit the impact to mussels and other bottom dwellers. Never feed, disturb, harass, or capture wildlife species or remove their nests or homes.