Adventure, Curated
Explore 5,000+ human-powered experiences — handpicked outdoor adventures for all skill levels with max stoke, zero hassle.
Local Legends, Real Reviews
We partner with the best in the business — trusted local outfitters and guides who know the trails, tides, and terrain. Backed by 185,000+ reviews, averaging 4.8⭐
Book Direct, Best Price Guarantee
Get the best price, availability, and flexibility you need by booking directly with the outfitter or guide.
Protect What You Love
Your adventure gives back. Every booking supports conservation and keeps wild places wild.
Single Kayak Rental - Hood River Waterfront
This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available
Pricing
Description
Single Kayak Rental at the Hood River Waterfront
Launch straight from the dock and paddle the calm, protected waters of the Columbia River Gorge on your own terms. Your guides' waterfront rental site sits inside Nichols Boat Basin, a sheltered cove that keeps you out of the wind and current, so you can ease into paddling at your own pace before deciding how far to explore.
The fleet includes both sit-on-top and sit-inside single kayaks. Sit-on-top kayaks are recommended for less experienced paddlers, since they're easy to re-board if you tip, while sit-inside kayaks suit paddlers who want a bit more speed and control. Once you're comfortable, you can stay within the protected cove or, when conditions allow, paddle out to the open waters of the Columbia River and make the roughly 1 mile (1.6 km) crossing to the locally loved Wells Island.
Duration
- 1, 2, or 3 hours, or full-day 24-hour rentals
Location / Where to Meet
- Meet at the waterfront rental site: 301 N 1st Street, Hood River, OR 97031
- Launch directly from the dock inside Nichols Boat Basin, a protected cove connected to the Columbia River
- Parking: 10 spaces available in the lower lot; additional paid parking is available along the roadway above the shop
Ages & Requirements
- Paddlers must be able to get in and out of the kayak and paddle without assistance
- Minimum age: Ages 5+ to ride along with an adult
- Must be aged 10+ to ride on single kayaks. For children under 10, please reserve a tandem kayak.
What's Included
- Single kayak (sit-on-top or sit-inside, your choice based on availability)
- Paddle
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
Not Included
- Guide or narrated instruction (this is a self-guided rental)
- Gratuity
- Transportation to the rental site
What to Bring / Wear
- Water shoes or sandals with a secure strap
- Quick-drying, comfortable clothing
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Dry bag for phones, keys, or cameras
- Extra layers, as Gorge weather and wind can shift quickly
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Pedal & Paddle HR
FAQs
Do I need previous kayaking experience?
No experience is necessary. The rental site is set inside a protected, wind-sheltered cove that's a great spot to get comfortable before heading further out, and the team is on hand to help first-timers get started.
Can I paddle out to Wells Island?
When wind and current conditions allow, many paddlers make the roughly 1 mile (1.6 km) crossing from the protected cove out to Wells Island on the Columbia River. Conditions can change quickly on the Gorge, so check in with the rental team before heading out into open water.
What's the difference between the sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks?
Sit-on-top kayaks are recommended for less experienced paddlers — if you tip, you can easily climb back on. Sit-inside kayaks require swimming or towing to shore to empty out if flipped, so they're best suited to paddlers with more experience.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible Cancellation: If your plans change just let us know at least 24 before for a full refund. Day of cancellations will not be refunded and rescheduling is not allowed.
Rarely, weather forces us to cancel tours for the day. In this case we provide refunds or rebook your tour to another time and day.
Availability
There is no instant booking availability for this adventure. Drop us a line using the contact form below and we'll do our best to help you book this adventure or suggest some alternative options
Reviews
Location
Address
301 North 1st Street
Hood River, OR, 97031
US
ASK THE LOCAL EXPERT
This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available