Re: [Paddlewise] Columbia River near Astoria

Craig Jungers wrote:
> I am going to be spending time with family near Astoria, OR (Ocean Park, WA
> actually) and would like to spend more time paddling and less time shopping.
> Last year I paddled Skamokawa, WA and in Willapa Bay. This year I noticed
> that there is a group of islands near Svenson's Island along the south shore
> of the Columbia River that look to be great paddle spots but it's difficult
> to determine access from mapquest or google maps.
> 
> We will be there around the 24th to the 26th of August. Does anyone have any
> thoughts on access, hazards, places to explore and/or park and have lunch
> for this area?

Craig, there are two public access points to that area on the OR side: 
Knappa Dock and Aldrich Point.  The former is rude and a tricky rough bank 
to negotiate.  Aldrich Point has a boat ramp, float, and small sandy beach. 
  The latter is far and away the best access.  It puts you in the heart of 
this wonderful, pristine paddling area.

Philip Jones had a very good guide out detailing these access points, with 
an updated edition that is just six months old:  Canoe and Kayak Routes of 
NW Oregon.  This is a good, authoritative, accurate guidebook.

Email me back channel or call with a chart in hand and I can put you onto 
some suggested day trips.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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