Willow Island and Exploration of the Narrows - L2 - T2563

Full Name: Paula Brottman
Narrative: We just can't get enough Narrows can we? And for good reason. Smooth rock islands covered in green, ever changing through the seasons. Peaceful waterways also ever changing with variable seasonal waterflow, currents and water heights. What will it be like this time? Which entrance will we go in? Getting to really know this gem of the Willamette is a challenge I aspire to and I hope you do as well. Let's go often, let's scratch this itch.

We will begin our paddle following the west side of the Willamette to Willow Island where we will find a spot for lunch and gawk at the 50,000 sq. ft. deserted mansion once owned by the CEO of Hollywood Videos and apparently abandoned in 1997. (Check out this fascinating video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfwbNxp8ID4) We will debate: Is it true this will someday be the OOPS clubhouse? The paddle will then continue to the Narrows for our exploration and delight. Satisfied, we will then return to our put in location. This is estimated to be an 8-9 mile paddle.

We'll launch from the "Non-motorized Boat Launch" on the north side of where the Tualatin River meets the Willamette River. Turn RIGHT at the bottom of the hill. There is a path at the far west end of the parking area, near the large sign and kayak/canoe storage “kiosk.” See photo. Bring wheels if you have them.

Please arrive by 8:15 and be water-ready at 9:00 a.m. Water temperature will be 65 - 70 so no immersion wear is required. Air temperature could range 65-90, weather updates be sent prior the the trip. Paddlers should expect to stay with the pod. Canoes with flotation and kayaks 12’ and longer are welcome. No inflatables, please.

Meeting Time: 8:15:00 AM
Launch Time: 9:00:00 AM
Type of activity: Paddle Trip
Put in: Willamette Park, West Linn 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Take out: Wilamette Park, West Linn 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Route Alternative for bad weather: Cancel
Required equipment:
Minimum Immersion protection: None
Primary Organizer: Paula Brottman
Co-Organizer(s): Chris Mayou
Has organizer paddled here before? Yes
Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before? Yes
Organizer's first aid and CPR current? Yes
First Aid /CPR Person:
Maximum number of paddlers: 8
I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy: Yes
Estimated Air Temperature: 65-90
Estimated Water Temperature: Mid 70's
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 4-5 hours
Tide times & heights: NA
Current information: approx .5 knot
Hazards:
Wind strength: Level 1: 0-7 knots (8 mph)
Swell/Surf size: Level 1: Under 1' waves, no breaking waves
Sea state: Level 1: Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled, no whitecaps
Landing types: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees
Currents: Level 1: None or mild (less than 1 knot)
Total distance: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles
Open crossing: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment:
Overall rating: Level 2
Rating Comments:
Location: 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Photos (Optional): yes
COVID-19 Status of Trip: Participants of this trip may, or may not, be vaccinated for Covid-19
Tide Station: NA

Link to map of route (Optional)