Lewis and Clark River Paddle Tours
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park Ranger-Guided Tours
Provides access for one person to participate in a guided kayak tour for up to 3 hours.Select a date to see a list of times
Need to Know
- Entrance Fees Also Required
In addition to this ticket, you'll also need to pay the Park entrance fee. Please pay your entrance fee at Fort Clatsop Visitor Center before you arrive for your tour. Visit the park webpage, www.nps.gov/lewi for details on options.
- Arrive on Time
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. The first 30 minutes will be a safety and boat use orientation. Your reservation will be canceled if you miss this orientation.
- Age Limits
Each participant must be age 13 and above. For liability reasons, each teen under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian (one teen per parent/guardian). Please call the park at the time of reservation with any age limit questions.
- Health/Physical Abilities
Participants must have basic swimming skills and not be afraid of falling into the water. Participants must be able to complete a three-hour paddle without assistance. If you have any specific accessibility concerns, please call the park at the time of reservation.
- Footwear
Footwear must attach to the front of the foot and around the heel and must be worn at all times. Please do not wear flip flops or high heels, as they can fall off while paddling and provide no support. Water shoes are preferred.
- Tour Schedule
Paddle Tours run daily Fridays and Saturdays starting late June through August for the 2024 season. The Lewis and Clark River is tidal-influenced, and tour times vary to match high tide times. Tours will meet and launch from Netul Landing.
- Reservation Availability
Tickets will be available for booking 30 days before the desired tour date. Additional tickets may become available 7 days before the desired tour date and as cancellations occur.
- One Person, One Ticket
Each participant must have their own individual reserved ticket. One ticket is valid for only one participant. For example, if a group of four would like to participate in one tour, four tickets must be reserved.
- Safety in Numbers
Tour numbers are strictly enforced to ensure participant and ranger safety as well as availability of park-provided equipment (kayaks, paddles, and life jackets). Ultimately, attendance is at the discretion of park staff. Individual liability forms will be signed upon arrival.
- Equipment
The Park will provide participants with watercraft, paddles, and life jackets. However, if you have specific requirements, you may bring your own Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Use of personal watercraft is limited and must be preapproved. Life jackets must be always worn properly and may only be removed when on land.
- How to Dress
Dress for the expected weather. Wear clothing that can get wet, as well as layers, including protective outerwear such as a windbreaker. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes and/or towels in your vehicle.
- What to Bring
Bring water and snacks for each person. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellant are all recommended. If you choose to bring electronic devices such as your camera or phone, also consider a protective dry bag.
- Prohibited
Participants exhibiting intoxicated or inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave. Please do not bring your pets or comfort animals.
- Weight Limits
Weight limit is 400 pounds total capacity for tandem (2 seat) kayaks and 275 pounds for single kayaks.
- Meeting Location
Paddle Tours embark from the Netul Landing parking lot, located 1.5 miles south of the Visitor Center on Fort Clatsop Road off of Business 101. Park by the restrooms.
