Clear bottom kayak in Joseph, Oregon
Have you ever wanted to paddle over Glacier-clear waters on a glass-bottom kayak? Learn about a spectacular location in the Pacific Northwest, complete with our photos and videos from renting a clear boat over Labor Day weekend….
We rented a clear kayak boat from Jo Paddle for an unforgettable Oregon kayak adventure.
Visiting the “Little Alps of Oregon”
A little over 5 hours east of Portland, Oregon, and a 4-hour drive from Boise, Idaho, lies one of the best kept secrets of the Pacific Northwest – an area known by a variety of names, including the Oregon Alps, Pacific Northwest Alps, Little Alps of Oregon, and Swiss Alps of Oregon. It’s Joseph, Oregon.
No matter what you call it, core truths remain:
It feels like a small, charming European town in Northeast Oregon.
The area is surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Wallowa Mountains (one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon!).
There’s an abundance of fun things to do, especially for those who love nature.
Exploring the cafes, art shops, restaurants and local boutiques on quaint Main Street, you’ll feel like you’re in little slice of Switzerland.
And if you’re into the Swiss-Bavarian vibe, be sure to visit the town of Joseph in late September! They host an annual “Alpenfest,” complete with yodeling, brats, beer, polka & more.
A snapshot we captured from the banks of Wallowa Lake, looking out at the Wallowa Mountains, in the morning hours.
Discovering Wallowa Lake
Nestled at the base of the Wallowa Mountains, Wallowa Lake is a pristine body of water that captivates kayakers, anglers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Known for its crystal-clear, deep blue waters, this glacier-formed lake stretches over 3.5 miles, offering paddlers a serene and scenic adventure.
Clear waters
The clarity of Wallowa Lake is almost otherworldly, reflecting the towering peaks and deep blue skies that surround it—a perfect mirror of the untouched wilderness. The lake’s purity can be attributed to its unique glacial origins and the continuous inflow of mountain streams, which naturally filter and refresh the water.
History
Wallowa Lake not only provides a peaceful paddling experience but also holds a rich history. Formed by glaciers thousands of years ago, it stands as a natural wonder, showcasing the geological processes that shaped this stunning landscape.
For flatwater kayakers, the calm and sheltered waters of Wallowa Lake are ideal for a day of paddling amidst breathtaking scenery. Paddling along the shoreline, you might catch glimpses of local Pacific Northwest wildlife, from soaring eagles to Black-tailed deer grazing near the water’s edge. On our morning paddle, we saw several osprey and a beautiful nest on a tall tree.
Rent a glass bottom kayak
For kayakers, renting a clear bottom kayak (by day or night) really highlights the beautiful clarity of the Wallowa Lake waters.
But don’t worry, you don’t have to bring one. To experience a Joseph, Oregon clear kayaking adventure, it’s easy to rent a boat from Jo Paddle, a local family-owned and operated paddle shop based in Joseph. And no personal hauling required!
Last weekend, this is exactly what I did – I rented a clear kayak for a 3-hour window. I was glad I booked in advance (reservations fill up during season and holiday weekend!). And I was also glad it was clear, calm water morning, as I’ve been told that water, wind, and weather conditions can change on a dime in the Wallowa Mountains. Plus, around lunchtime the boat traffic on the lake really picked up, so I loved the early morning mirror-surface like serenity of the lake.
This is the exact trip that I booked for my solo kayaking experience on Wallowa Lake: Glass Bottom Kayak Rentals. Check out the link for the full details, inclusions, and disclaimers, but they provide gear if needed (paddle, kayak PFD, cold boiled water, dry bag, sunscreen) and they will drop-off and pick-up your kayak at the meeting point at the designated time.
It’s also helpful to know that this location on the lake has parking, restrooms, a boat ramp and dock, and a swimming area.
As you glide across the lake’s surface in your clear-bottom kayak, you'll be captivated by the beautiful the Wallowa Mountains and the Glacier clear waters…
One key thing to keep in mind: daytime boating activity is high on this lake, so be aware of boat wakes and waves, and follow proper kayaking navigation around motorized watercraft.
Also I found it a little challenging paddling this heavier, bulkier, wider open-cockpit kayak as a solo person in a tandem kayak. If I rented one again, I’d make sure to bring a plus one to join me.
Overall, it was really fun and so relaxing to glide over the shallow waters and look for fish and admire the scenery glistening below. The mountain reflections on the clean, calm waters were stunning. I just loved being out on the water and experiencing this beautiful lake for the first time.
Interested in more unique kayaking experiences in Joseph, Oregon? Check out our review of a Wallowa Lake night kayaking tour in a glass-bottom boat!
About Flatwater Kayak Club
Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading online platform dedicated to supporting beginner and intermediate kayakers in the Pacific Northwest. Our company founder, a former writer for The National Geographic Channel and a current ACA member, guides our mission with her passion for kayaking, nature, and storytelling.