The Pacific Northwest, a realm where waterways weave through stunning landscapes, offers some of the most incredible kayaking experiences in the world.

As the founder of the Flatwater Kayak Club, I’ve had the privilege of embarking on numerous guided tours that have not only enhanced my flatwater paddling skills and community, but also deepened my appreciation for this region’s natural beauty.

In this article, I’m excited to share with you some of the top guided kayak tours that stand out in my memory from the past two years, each offering a unique glimpse into the heart of the beautiful nature this region has to offer…

Ballard Locks tour near Seattle

Navigating the Ballard Locks by kayak near Seattle, Washington was an experience that blended urban exploration with the serenity of nature. This tour offered a unique perspective of the city's maritime history, guiding us through a century-old lock system while pointing out the diverse marine life.

The highlight was the moment we transitioned from the saltwater of Puget Sound to the freshwater of the Ship Canal, a convergence of ecosystems that left me in awe of this engineering marvel.

More memorable moments: tandem kayaking with my son, observing dozens of adorable harbor seals hunting and sunbathing, and watching jumping salmon from our boats!

Coldwater Lake near Mt. St. Helens

Kayaking on Coldwater Lake, especially with the guidance of REI's expert instructors, was nothing short of magical. This tour took us to a lake born out of the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, a testament to nature’s resilience, on a glorious sunny, Autumn day in Washington state.

Paddling on the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the recovering landscape, was a poignant reminder of nature's power and beauty. The tranquility of the lake, coupled with the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, provided a peaceful yet exhilarating experience.

More memorable moments: We saw a carcass on the shoreline, beautiful osprey, and the cutest Black-tailed deer wandering around. This was the first time I was recognized for founding Flatwater Kayak Club “in the wild,” and it’s also the first time I fell out of my boat when exiting a kayak!

Sunset guided tour in the Columbia River Gorge

There's something magical about paddling as the sun sets, and the Columbia River Gorge sunset kayaking tour captured this magic perfectly.

The play of colors on the water as the sun dipped behind the gorge’s iconic cliffs was a sight to behold. Our guide enriched the experience with stories of the gorge’s geological and cultural history, making the tour both educational and visually stunning.

The calm waters of the evening made for an easy paddle, allowing us to soak in the sunset's tranquil beauty fully.

More memorable moments: Kayaking with my mom. We had so many giggles and just the best time, surrounded by the incredible beauty of the mountain range. It was just a blast. We talk about it all the time.

Night kayaking in Central Oregon

The night kayaking tour in Central Oregon was an adventure that took my love for kayaking to new heights. Paddling under the starlit sky, with only the sound of our paddles gently breaking the water’s surface, was an ethereal experience.

The lack of light pollution in this remote area allowed the stars to shine with an intensity that was almost surreal. Our guide's knowledge of the night sky added an astronomical dimension to the tour, making it both a kayaking and stargazing expedition.

More memorable moments: Listening to the flutter of wings as ducks landed on the lake a night. Seeing the the darkest, clearest sky of my life. Following the glow of the milky way while paddling the journey home.

Willamette Narrows in Portland

The Willamette Narrows kayak tour, again in collaboration with REI, showcased the stunning beauty of Oregon’s waterways. This section of the Willamette River, with its narrow channels and hidden inlets, was a playground for exploration.

The lush greenery, abundant Pacific Northwest wildlife, and calm waters made for a relaxing yet engaging journey. Our guide’s expertise in local ecology transformed the tour into an immersive nature experience, highlighting the area’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

More memorable moments: The thrill of paddling the wide Willamette River and turning off to a truly tucked-away gem of a paddling spot so close to downtown Portland. Exploring the winding channels by kayak (where no boats are allowed, it’s too shallow) was really fun, and I was glad to have an expert guide lead the way.

Conclusion

Each of these tours offered something unique – a blend of adventure, tranquility, and education. From the urban exploration of the Ballard Locks to the starry skies of Central Oregon, these experiences have not only been journeys across water but also journeys through the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes.

As an avid kayaker, these tours have enriched my understanding and appreciation of this magnificent region, and I hope they inspire you to explore these waterways with the same sense of wonder and respect.

At Flatwater Kayak Club, our passion for kayaking is matched only by our love for the natural world and our commitment to responsible and sustainable exploration.

These guided tours are more than just paddling experiences; they are an invitation to connect with nature, learn about our environment, and be part of a community that cherishes every stroke and every moment on the water.

I’m already planning out where and when I want to paddle in 2024 – What top guided tours are on YOUR list? I’d love to hear. Share your flatwater kayaking photos, reels, and videos with our community on Instagram at #FlatwaterKayakClub!