#9 - Tualatin River (Farmington)

 We put in near the beginning of the Tualatin River Water Trail, at the Farmington Paddle Launch (top left of map). The park has good parking, restroom, and a small gravel path to the river which is longer than I thought. The actual boat launch ramp was not there. Not sure what happened to it, but there is not a great place to take in and out. Manageable, but not ideal.

The river here is not very wide, and it stays about the same width most of the way upriver, which is the way we went (easier when coming back). It is beautiful, with lots of trees, flowers, and shrubs on the bank. The water was slow and calm, easy to paddle.





There are also a lot of trees and branches to look out for. Nothing impassable, but there were several times I hit a snag underwater I didn't see until I hit it. I didn't have to take the pedals out to navigate, although I did a few times just to be safe.











We had the pleasure of our older daughter meeting us here with her paddle board. There was only one place near the launch where the current was a bit swift, and we had to get past it (narrow, too) in order to head upstream. She managed, and even took it standing up on the return trip.







I'm not sure how far upriver we got, maybe halfway to the last stop on the water trail? In any case, there was this hollow stump in the middle of the river that needed some attention.

We saw a good number of other kayakers and paddlers, but not crowded at all. The river was a bit low, but still enjoyable. I would recommend this stretch, unless the water drops a lot more. 




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