Alton Baker Canal in Oregon

Trip Overview

This 2 mile canal with 3 tiny portages is THE place to learn or practice your flatwater skills without leaving the city.

With a canoe launch right in front of the UofO stadium, 1 mile from downtown Eugene and 2 miles from Springfield this is a good place for families, beginners, dogs to come and learn to canoe or kayak. It's at it's deepest I think 3 or 4 feet, widest maybe 30 yards, is stocked with trout, and has about a 1 knots current.

It's never crowded.

Accommodations:

At the west end in summer, Oregon River Sports rents kayaks for 10 dollars an hour.

Fees:

none

Directions:

Drive to the UO stadium "Autzen Stadium" on MLK jr. drive. Take Leo Harris Parkway to the front of the stadium and right, I mean right, in front of the giant Yellow O on the stadium is a dirt lot and you pull in there and there is a sign for canoe launch, day use only.