Wallowa Lake night kayaking tour [REVIEW]
Paddling across the glacier-clear waters of Eastern Oregon in a clear-bottom kayak under a sky full of stars is an unforgettable adventure. Discover an exciting guided tour that lets you experience glow-in-the-dark kayaking beneath the dark night sky, and sign up to create your own magical nighttime journey.
We joined a JO Paddle nighttime kayaking tour over Labor Day weekend.
Night tourism in Oregon
Oregon is rapidly becoming a hotspot for night tourism, and for good reason. With its diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines and dense forests to serene lakes and towering mountains—Oregon offers some of the most unique and unforgettable nighttime experiences in the United States.
To cater to this burgeoning interest, the state has designated certain areas as dark sky preserves, where light pollution is minimized to enhance stargazing. One of the key attractions for nighttime adventurers is Oregon's many dark sky zones, where the night sky is brilliantly illuminated with stars. As more travelers seek out novel experiences, Oregon’s outdoor adventure offerings are becoming increasingly focused on these magical nighttime environments.
Night kayaking Oregon
For those looking to enjoy nature after the sun sets, night kayaking offers an unforgettable way to connect with Oregon’s serene landscapes. Kayaking under a canopy of stars is not just a physical activity but also a meditative experience, offering peace, reflection, and a chance to reconnect with oneself and the universe.
Paddling through the calm waters at night allows you to escape the daytime crowds and experience the tranquility of nature in a deeply personal way.
Last summer, I had my first night kayaking tour in central Oregon (near the city of Eugene) and was hooked… The combination of paddling through still waters and looking up at a sky filled with stars was mesmerizing. I think it was one of the most profound and relaxing paddling experiences I’ve ever had.
Night kayaking, in particular, stands out as an intimate way to explore these dark sky zones, where the water reflects the brilliance of the heavens above, creating a surreal and enchanting experience.
Wallowa Lake
Wallowa Lake, located in Joseph, Oregon in the Wallowa Mountains, is a prime example of Oregon’s appeal for night tourism. This Pacific Northwest under-the-radar gem offers a truly immersive stargazing experience at night. They even have laws in place regarding lighting to protect the dark sky zone and reduce any light pollution in the area.
The pristine clear waters of Wallowa lake, combined with minimal light pollutions and a clear, star-studded sky, create a magical and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're an avid kayaker, a nature enthusiast, or a stargazer, Wallowa Lake provides a perfect backdrop for nocturnal adventures.
As night tourism continues to grow, destinations like Wallowa Lake are becoming central to Oregon's outdoor adventure offerings, making the state a prime destination for those looking to explore nature in a whole new light—quite literally!
Night kayaking on Wallowa Lake
As the sun sets behind the rugged Wallowa Mountains, the lake becomes a tranquil paradise where the stars shine bright. If you want to paddle under the stars with an experienced guide who shares stories about the lake, local history, and the surrounding wildlife, read on for information on the tour we did…
How to book your glass-bottom kayak guided night tour
To embark on a night kayaking adventure on Wallowa Lake, you can book a guided tour through JO Paddle. “The Night Adventure Tour” typically lasts about 2-3 hours and includes all necessary equipment such as kayaks, paddles, dry bags, bottled water, and life jackets.
You will also receive a brief safety and paddling orientation from experienced guides who will ensure a safe and memorable experience on the water. Tours can be booked online, and it is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
If you’re looking to plan your Oregon travel budget, our guided tour (no discounts, including fees) for 2 adults and 2 children (4 total kayakers) cost me $412.76.
Each of our night kayaking boats had different light up colors.
What to know before you go
Before heading out for a night kayak on Wallowa Lake, here are a few things you should know:
Weather conditions: Weather can change quickly in the Wallowa Mountains, so it’s essential to dress in layers and bring a light jacket. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, even in the summer. This is why we recommend going out with expert guides!
Safety precautions: Night kayaking requires additional safety precautions, such as wearing reflective gear and having lights on your kayak. JO Paddle provides all necessary safety equipment, but it’s always good to be aware of your surroundings and follow the guide's instructions closely.
Physical preparedness: While night kayaking is generally considered a relaxing activity, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness. Be prepared to paddle for an extended period and have the stamina to navigate back to the starting point. Also, the seats aren’t that comfortable in glass-bottom kayaks.
Wildlife awareness: The area around Wallowa Lake is rich in wildlife, including birds and occasionally larger animals like Black-tailed deer. Keep an eye out for nocturnal creatures and respect their natural habitat by minimizing noise and disturbance.
Respect for nature: Lastly, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles when out on the lake—take all trash with you, respect the natural environment, and leave the waters as pristine as you found it.
By being well-prepared and following responsible kayaker etiquette, you can fully enjoy the magical experience of night kayaking on Wallowa Lake, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Our night kayak tour highlights
We launched at dusk to enjoy the beautiful sunset on the lake. Once the sky darkened and our boats began to glow in the night, it was so fun to see through your transparent kayak to the clear water below. We saw a few fish here and there too.
Our JO Paddle guides led our group to a few different stopping points on the lake. We learned about the history and geography of the Wallowa Mountains and insights into the First Nations who lived and hunted in the region…
Wallowa Lake in Joseph, Oregon, is widely known for it's clear and clean waters.
One of my kids’ favorite parts of the tour was hearing the legends of Wally, the alleged lake monster in Wallowa Lake, from atop our glowing kayaks. Stories about Wally go back 200 years. An origin story about Wally comes from the Nez Perce, and a time when two tribes united for a marriage ceremony and the couple was eaten by the lake monster.
Whatever you believe about lake monster legends, it’s always more fun to hear a spooky story at night, under the stars, and over clear water, from a glow-in-the-dark kayak. Note that we did not see Wally on our tour :)
We love kayaking together as a family. My husband paddled with our daughter, and my son and I shared a tandem transparent bottom kayak.
For the last ten minutes or so of our night journey, we grouped together and our guides turned off the glowing colored lights on our kayaks. As our eyes adjusted to the darkness, the sky glittered with stars and constellations began to appear in form.
In terms of kayaking ability, this night tour on tandem kayaks is an easy paddle, perfect for beginners. We enjoyed calm waters and pleasant weather the night we were out on the lake. For anyone looking at unique night tours in Oregon, this one certainly should be on your list.
About Flatwater Kayak Club
Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading digital 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.