#10 - Willamette River - Whitely Landing to Marshall Island Access

 


We found ourselves in the Eugene area, and decided to take the kayaks for a spin. Because we had another kayaker coming with us, we decided to float downriver and shuttle back, unlike our other trips where we put in and take out at the same place. We put in at Whitely Landing County Park near Santa Clara, and take out at Marshall Island Access near Junction City, about a 6 mile trip. Both parks have restrooms (although Whitely's is a bit sketchy), lots of parking and usable ramps (Marhall Island's is better).


The river is beautiful here, away from most traffic noise. We didn't see any other kayakers, only a few fishermen on the entire float.




The water was a bit low, and there were a few other obstacles along the way, but nothing we couldn't get past. My kayak did scrape rocks a few times, and I didn't put my pedals in for most of the trip because of how shallow it was.









We came across a few rope swings, including one for river surfing, but again, the water is lower than usual, so I didn't try them out.


Since this was our first float downriver to a different pull out, we got to experience some "rapids" for the first time. They were very tame, but the current does pick up, and there are some underwater obstacles, and it was a refreshing change to just floating along. 

The scenery is similar most of the way; lots of trees, grass, rocky islands. It is also very peaceful most of the way. There are places to pull off if you want to get out, have lunch, or swim. 

It took us about 2 1/2 hours to float this 6 mile stretch, and I would recommend it. Paddleboarders might have some issues at the rapids, but could probably make it sitting down alright.




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