The Clackamas is an incredible resource for Portland area residents—after all, how many major metropolitan areas have a federally designated “National Wild and Scenic” river flowing through their backyard! The river’s upper stretches, where it flows through dense forests and basalt canyons, offers up white water rafting and kayaking opportunities to challenge the most expert paddlers. The lower river below Estacada is a great place for beginning paddlers to get a taste of river running. This stretch also attracts many anglers seeking chinook and summer steelhead in the spring, coho (silver) salmon in the fall, and winter steelhead from December through March. The last few miles above its confluence with the Willamette are one of Portlanders’ favorite fishing holes.

Courtesy of “Boating in Oregon” by Oregon State Marine Board

When to Go: year round

Best Features: Great fish, close to Portland

Rafting Difficulty Level: II

Fish: Salmon & Steelhead summer-winter

Good For: Single day fishing trips close to Portland, great beginner kayaker stretch

Miles: 16.00