#5 - Willamette River - Buena Vista

We had originally planned to go camping this weekend near Oakridge, but we not able to reserve a campsite, even with a local checking it out for us. So, we decided to stay closer to home and go to the Willamette River. We put in at Buena Vista Park, which is just south of the Buena Vista Ferry, which happened to be closed for repairs. Although the park is small, there was plenty of parking, a pit toilet, and a nice boat ramp. 
When we put in, our plan was to head upstream for about a mile, until we found where the Luckiamute River enters the Willametter. We could also head upriver a bit more and check out the Santiam. We ended up going up the Luckiamute, mostly because it was closer.














The Willamette River was wide and mostly slow, with a current that didn't slow us down too much. There are some interesting features along the bank, including what look like limestone cliffs, shady rock beaches, and few signs of civilization. 






Except for the jet skis.
Fortunately, the jet skis didn't come too far upriver, and we had some peace and quiet.After about an hour, we decided to cross the current into the Luckiamute. I think paddle boards would be able to make this trek upriver, but I would not advise them crossing that current. Our pedal kayaks made this a bit easier. It might help to go upriver a bit, and then come down in the current and then turn.

In any case, the change in rivers was amazing. The Luckiamute is much smaller, and much slower. Also quieter. We saw nobody after we turned here. There was pollen on the water, only disturbed as we glided through. Lots of birds could be heard, but we didn't see much wildlife. The river slowly got shallow, until I had to pull my pedals out. But even then, I was only able to go a bit farther before we had to stop. Leanna decided to get out and sit in the river. I walked upstream a bit, and it got deeper as I walked. When it was above my belly button, I started swimming.



What a wonderful place. Quiet, perfect temperature for both air and water. Secluded. This was definitely worth the trip. Apparently there are some boat ramps upriver, but I'm not sure how many shallow spots there are. 

After soaking in the peace and quiet, we headed back to Buena Vista. Entering the Willamette was much easier, and we took it easy as the current carried us back to where we started. Only 2 motored boats came downriver on our way back (none came upriver), and one of them was the Polk County Sheriff's boat. Thankfully, they slowed down as they passed us and another kayak group nearby.

I recommend this stretch of river. Not sure about paddle boards above the Luckiamute, but they should be able to handle up till then. Also lots of places to pull ashore and rest or picnic. 





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