Join Us for the 11th Annual Big Paddle!
June 4th, 2022 | Ridgefield Waterfront
The Ridgefield Big Paddle commemorates the designation of the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Water Trail each year on National Trails Day.
2022 Event
We are excited to invite you to the Lake River waterfront for a paddle on Saturday, June 4th, 2022!
Event details are still in the works for 2022. Check in here or follow us on Facebook (@BigPaddle) for updates!
Thank you to all of our 2021 Big Paddle Sponsors!
Port of Ridgefield
Karmy Law Office PLLC
IDM Companies/Acero
Clark Regional Wastewater District
Rosauers
General Information
About the Big Paddle
The Ridgefield Big Paddle began in 2012 to celebrate the efforts of many to create this water trail resource.
The first Big Paddle was June 2nd, 2012. Big Paddle is traditionally held on the first Saturday in June as part of National Trails Day.
The flotilla travels 2.5 miles North on Lake River, past the wildlife refuge, to the Columbia River and back to the Port of Ridgefield launch for a 5 mile round trip. This year, we are challenging you to complete a 5 mile round trip somewhere new along the Water Trail.
About the Water Trail
The Water Trail was established in 2012 and was the impetus for the first Ridgefield Big Paddle. The unique feature of a water trail is you can float along the trail, and you will not have changed that trail. It’s a sustainable form of use.
The 32 river miles in this water trail include:
- Vancouver Lake (more than 5 miles to circumnavigate), the full extent of Lake River (11.5 miles)
- Columbia River along the west side of Bachelor Island (4 miles)
- Bachelor Island Slough and the confluences of the Lewis and Lake Rivers (2.6 miles)
- Upriver on the East Fork of the Lewis River to La Center (3.25 miles)
- Upriver on the North Fork of the Lewis River to Woodland (6.5 miles)
Indigenous History
There is rich history all along the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Water Trail. Since time immemorial Chinookan Peoples of the Lower Columbia River have called the land along the Columbia River home. The village of Cathlapotle, located on what is now the Carty Unit of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, was one of the largest on the river. The village was excavated in 1990s, and a replica Plankhouse built on the Refuge as an education and interpretive center. Learn more about the archaeological site. Learn more about the Plankhouse.
Education
Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership
The Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership is usually at Big Paddle running the Big Canoe tours and bringing some great science and nature learning opportunities in the Paddlers Village. Due to COVID-19, we are not able to offer canoe paddles in 2021. But, you can still learn from the Estuary Partnership! Their website has a collection of activity videos to learn about science and nature in and around your home. Click here to check it out!
What Steps Can YOU Take to Protect Water
There is so much you can do to help protect our streams, rivers, and lakes!
- Wash your car on the grass or visit an eco-friendly car wash
- Pick up pet waste and be sure to know how to properly dispose of human waste outdoors
- Reduce or eliminate lawn and garden fertilizer and pesticides
- Pick up litter (especially along streams and rivers!)
- Follow organizations like the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Watershed Alliance of SW Washington to learn more and keep up on future volunteer opportunities.
Wildlife Viewing
There are numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing along the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Trail. The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is situated along Lake River at the Confluence with the Columbia and boasts. Learn more about the Habitat and Wildlife on the Refuge here.
This video, from Alder Creek Kayak, gives a little taste of the wildlife you may see while paddling along the water trail.
Paddling Safety
Plan ahead and be prepared to safely enjoy your paddling experience.
- Prepare a float plan. Inform others of your trip and expected return time.
- Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.
- Do not paddle alone.
- Learn about your route in advance, especially potential hazards and emergency access.
- Know the weather forecast. If you experience sudden temperature drops, increasing and volatile winds or darkening clouds, get off the water.
- Carry food and water adequate for your trip length.
- Maintain distance between your boat and objects in the water, including motor boats, which may cause waves that could capsize a canoe or kayak.
- Position your boat perpendicular to an approaching wake.
- Never float or paddle over a fallen tree or other obstruction.
- Learn how to self-rescue in the event of capsize.
Paddling Etiquette
Appropriate, low-impact use of the water trail is the responsibility of all who use this natural resource and will ensure the waterways stay beautiful and healthy. Keep the following in mind while you travel:
- Leave No Trace – Do not alter your surroundings. Leave natural objects as you found them.
- Quietly view wildlife. Give a wide berth to any birds or animals you encounter.
- Respect Private Property – The river is open for recreation but lands along the shore may be private or restricted wildlife refuge lands. Respect private property and posted lands and do not trespass.
Learning to Paddle
Haven’t made your way into the world of paddling yet? Or maybe you want to brush up on your skills? Check out the below videos for some quick tips, or visit Paddling.com for even more expert advice!
