Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle
A 4-mile out-and-back along the Washington shore of the Columbia River Gorge with Beacon Rock, mountain views, and dramatic basalt cliffs.
At a Glance
Distance
4.3 miles
Estimated Time
2.5-3.5 hours
Difficulty
Intermediate
Route Type
Out & Back
Water Body
Columbia River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
You'll launch from Beacon Rock State Park and paddle east along the Washington shore beneath the towering basalt cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge. Beacon Rock itself, an 848-foot volcanic plug and one of the largest monoliths in North America, rises directly above the water.
Start early. The Gorge funnels coastal wind from the west, and afternoon conditions can turn dangerous quickly. Morning paddles are essential before winds build. The Columbia is wide (over a mile) with barge traffic in the main channel, so stay near the Washington shore in the protected zone.
The cold water here (50-55°F year-round) means a PFD is required and a wetsuit is strongly recommended. The scenery is worth the preparation: columnar basalt cliffs, lush forest, views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, and Pierce Island, a 200-acre Nature Conservancy preserve where ospreys and beavers live.
Highlights
- •848-foot Beacon Rock monolith
- •Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- •Views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams
- •No shuttle needed — out and back
Safety & Hazards
Afternoon Gorge winds can be dangerous. Paddle mornings only. Barge traffic in main channel. Stay near shore. Cold water year-round. PFD required, wetsuit recommended. Discover Pass ($10/day or $30/year) required for state park parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle?
- Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle is rated intermediate difficulty. Afternoon Gorge winds can be dangerous. Paddle mornings only. Barge traffic in main channel. Stay near shore. Cold water year-round. PFD required, wetsuit recommended. Discover Pass ($10/day or $30/year) required for state park parking.
- How long does Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle take?
- Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle covers 4.3 miles and typically takes 2.5-3.5 hours.
- When is the best time to paddle Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle?
- The best seasons for Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle are summer and fall. Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle is on Columbia River.
- What activities are available on Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle?
- Columbia River Gorge: Beacon Rock Paddle supports Kayaking. Highlights: 848-foot Beacon Rock monolith, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, No shuttle needed — out and back.
Parking
Discover Pass required ($30/year or $10/day) for Beacon Rock State Park. Paved lot near the boat launch with room for trailers. Additional parking at the Beacon Rock trailhead lot.
Turnaround Point
Hamilton Creek AreaCan continue
You can continue east toward Bonneville Dam, but afternoon Gorge winds build from the west and will be in your face on the return. Turn back here for a comfortable round trip. If you start early and conditions are calm, extending the paddle is possible.
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