Paddle TOURS

EXPLORE THE LAKES AND RIVER NEAR BEND, OREGON!

Fall in Bend is unbeatable. The rare deciduous trees are changing colors-popping against the evergreens, the willow are soaking up the last of summer’s water and the wildlife is scurrying around preparing for winter! But we don’t need to give up on summer just yet. Grab a paddle and your sense of adventure and allow Wanderlust Naturalist Guides to get you out on the water- one last time!

Spring in Bend is stunning. The wildflowers are starting to bloom, there is still snow in the mountains but sun on our backs and the wildlife feels the energy of the season’s shift and is scampering around! Even if snow play is still on your mind, take a moment to soak up the pre-summer sun and allow Wanderlust Naturalist Guides to get you out on the water!

Jump to: Compare Wanderlust Paddle Tours

Please Note: Spring and Fall weather in central Oregon is hard to predict, and can bring sun or snow! The Wanderlust Guide Team will make a decision which type of paddle experience to provide based on the conditions on the day of your tour. Please see below for a more detailed description of the potential tours.

ABOUT

Adventure: Wanderlust Tours is the premier destination for paddle tours in Bend, Oregon! Join us on this iconic paddling tour on the Deschutes River or high elevation mountain lakes in the mighty Cascade Range. 

Naturalist Guided Experience: Our renowned naturalist guides will highlight the sweet spots on these stunning waterways that might not initially meet the eye. During our 2 hours on the water, along with the fun and sun, we may impart an understanding of the area’s hydrology and how water sustains all living things. We could build a vision for how insects, born in the lake’s waters, begin the cycle of life that is realized in this intact ecosystem. Your crew will be energized with revelations about natural and cultural history that’ll keep your mind humming with delight long after you return home with fond memories of the tour. 

- Spring/Fall Paddle Comparison -

The guide will first choose your paddle location:

Cascade Lakes: Heading up higher in elevation to our Cascade Lakes is possible in late spring (pending snow melt) and early fall (pre snow fall). If the snow conditions provide the opportunity and the weather looks good, we will often choose to bring our guests into the mountains.

Deschutes River: If the snow prevents us from getting to the Cascade Lakes, the Deschutes River is an incredible option. The paddle is a flatwater (NO rapids) stretch of the Deschutes River in which we will start our paddling up river a ways, before flipping around and enjoying a with-river float back down!

Based on your location, the guide will then choose the appropriate vessel!

Kayaking: In the Spring/Fall, this is our most used option! The kayak allows for maximum flexibility and ease while paddling on either the river or the lakes.

Canoeing: This is a great option in those moments where the lakes are open up high (no snow) and there is little wind expected!

Our Kayaks: Our kayaks are tandem, 2 person kayaks. If you have an odd number in your group, they will be paired with our guide or another odd numbered group. Our kayaks are sit-on-top, self bailing kayaks. This means that your backside may get a little wet during the tour. You are more than welcome to bring a change of shorts/ pants for after the tour. Your legs and shins may also get a little wet from splashes and drips while paddling. The weight limit for our kayaks is 500 lbs.

Our Canoes: Our canoes have two paddling positions and include room in the middle for a third non-paddling passenger. Canoe tours are best for all ages and skill levels. While unlikely, you may get slightly wet from drips and splashes while paddling. The weight limit per a canoe is 1100 lbs.

Your guide will choose the vessel that is the most appropriate for the weather and the waterway in which we are paddling.

Wanderlust Tours is the premier destination for summer activities in Bend, Oregon.
Looking for more things to do with kids in Bend Oregon, or have questions about one of our tours?
Give us a call at (541) 389-8359.