The Salmon River in Oregon drains from the Coastal Range down along the Pacific Ocean coast, 4 miles north of Lincoln City. Kayaking on this portion of the river is mild in comparison to riding its waters up in the Cascade Range, where white rapids and waterfalls move swiftly through the Salmon River Canyon, the "Mount Everest of Oregon kayaking," according to Jason Rackley, of oregonkayaking.net.
Accessibility
The Salmon River near Lincoln City is on the Pacific Coast of northwest Oregon. It converges with the Pacific Ocean about 4 miles north of Lincoln City, so it would be possible to stay overnight in the city and drive to the river for a few hours of kayaking. "Many coastal bays and rivers offer great kayaking and canoeing opportunities," says travel writer Lizann Dunegan.
Difficulty
Kayaking the Salmon River near Lincoln City is not where you will find expert terrain, but it may be suitable for a relaxed day to float the waters, fish and enjoy some scenery. The convergence with the Pacific Ocean makes mild sea kayaking available from the river as well. Those looking for bigger waters should head up toward the Salmon River Canyon at Clackamas County, Oregon, where snow runoff from Mount Hood makes for raging white water.
Preparation
There are several places to rent kayaks for a full or half day in the Lincoln City area. Dunegan recommends calling a local outfitter to make reservations for a boat and get recommendations for a kayak trip. Be sure to check the weather and be prepared for variable and damp weather conditions. Bring warm and waterproof layers, along with plenty of food and water.
Fishing
If you are planning to cast a few lines into the water while you kayak, take coastal angler Jason Self's advice and bring your own gear. It may be hard to find in Lincoln City. "It turns out there is no tackle shop in Lincoln City, so rather than drive around aimlessly searching, we scratched the idea of catching rock fish and lingcod for playing in the surf and relaxing on the beach," Self said in kayak trip blog.
Features
There are a few things to see in the estuary as you paddle through. You may come across a few seals popping their heads out of the water around your kayak or lying in the sun on the sandy beach shores.
Cascade Head is a notable scenic area, found near the mouth of the Salmon River.
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