As some of you know I am working and living out here in Oregon till November. High on my priorities has been getting to experience some of these rivers. Last month I spent three days paddling the Willamette River in Oregon.
We had a leisurely 24 mile trip from Buena Vista to Salem Oregon. The Willamette is a broad, shallow, rocky bottomed attractive river. This section has a braided meandering river channel with quite a few islands. The islands were great lunch spots and overnight camp sites.
The Willamette is appreciated by locals. I was thrilled to see lots of users, canoes, motor boats, party barges, and jet skis up and down the river. This was particularly true around Buena Vista, Independence and Salem. Totally different than the secret remote rivers where I lead trips in South East Mississippi. But it was great to see folks out recreating and appreciating the wonderful river.
Sta'bubu really enjoyed the freedom of river life. When we are back home in New Orleans she is an outdoor dog. I found her as a wild stray along a river. Most likely she had spent her entire life outside until I found her. She enjoys full run of the back yard, front porch, and her dog house. So it has been an adjustment for her to be in an apartment while we are in Oregon. Of course she gets plenty of walks and exercise. But nothing compares to the joy of three days off lease, outside, swimming, sniffing all the scents of a river and exploring the woods along a rivers edge.
The trip was a wonderful time. So thankful to experience another river on its terms. I appreciate the special characteristics of this river. Wonderful gravel beaches, bright fast water, smooth stone river bed. We slept great both at long lazy lunch breaks, and comfortable island camp sites. I came back totally refreshed ... and excited to go out again.
As always if you have questions or ideas about the upcoming seasons trips shoot me a message here w the contact form or on Instagram @bd_markey
Hope to see you on the river,
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