By May, the Columbia River comes alive with seasonal energy — from crisp sunrises to longer afternoons on the water. While spring brings stunning scenery and fresh opportunities to paddle, it also comes with important considerations: cold water, fast-moving currents, and unpredictable conditions. With the right preparation, it can also be one of the most rewarding times of the year to be on the water.
Here in the Tri-Cities, spring doesn’t just hint at adventure — it invites us straight into it. And there’s no better place to answer that call than from the deck of a paddleboard.
The Columbia in Full Bloom
As the season hits its stride, the landscape transforms. Riverbanks turn vibrant with new growth, wildflowers bloom, and birds dart overhead as you glide across the water. Every paddle feels like a front-row seat to the changing world around us.
Spring runoff often brings faster currents and shifting conditions on the Columbia, so it’s important to plan your paddles with care — being informed helps you paddle with confidence and purpose.
Clover Island, Leslie Groves Park, and Wade Park each offer a unique way to experience spring on the river:
- Clover Island features calm, protected water inside the marina, ideal for loops or skills practice — just stay alert for boats both inside and out on the river.
- Leslie Groves Park lies within a non-motorized zone, offering quieter water and scenic paddling near Nelson Island — just remember to give wildlife plenty of space.
- Wade Park sits along the current but tends to be calmer than other areas. Paddle upstream first for an easier return, and the nearby walking path adds visibility — especially helpful for solo paddlers.
From quiet solo paddles to shared moments on a group paddle, spring on the Columbia invites us to experience the river in whatever way calls to us.
Spring is a busy time for wildlife. Geese, ducks, and other birds are nesting or caring for their young, and you might spot little ones swimming alongside their parents — or even catch an eagle or osprey overhead. Giving wildlife space and moving quietly helps protect these fragile moments and makes each encounter even more meaningful.
Gearing Up for Adventure — with Safety in Mind
Spring paddling is beautiful — but it’s also a season where awareness matters. Even as the air warms, the Columbia’s water temperatures stay cold well into late spring, and runoff from mountain snowmelt can bring stronger currents and faster-moving water.
Staying safe starts with preparation. Wearing a properly fitted life jacket, dressing for cold-water immersion, and knowing how to assess flow conditions are all essential steps before heading out. Early morning paddles tend to offer the calmest conditions, but no matter when you launch, being aware of wind, weather, and water levels is key.
Gear Tips for Spring Paddling:
- A farmer-style wetsuit paired with a rash guard offers insulation without restricting movement — ideal for spring conditions where cold water is still a real factor. HydroSkin gear works well too, especially as we head toward summer and water temperatures begin to rise.
- Neoprene shoes help keep your feet warm and protected.
- Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket (PFD) — it’s your most important piece of safety gear, especially in cold water.
- A leash keeps you connected to your board if you fall, making it easier to get back on quickly and stay safe — we recommend using a quick-release leash setup.
If you’re dusting off your board for the first time this season — or stepping onto one for the first time ever — we’re here to help you gear up the right way. Whether you’re brushing up on skills or just getting started, our courses, clinics, and private sessions are designed to build confidence, sharpen technique, and set you up for an incredible (and safe) season on the water.
Setting the Tone for the Season
Spring paddling isn’t just about the distance — it’s about the moments that stay with you. It’s about pausing to watch a heron lift off the shoreline. About feeling the sun on your shoulders after months of winter. About letting the river remind you how good it feels to move, to breathe, to be part of something bigger.
At Aqueous SUP, we believe spring sets the tone for the whole season ahead: a reminder to paddle with purpose, to explore with care, and to enjoy every incredible moment the water offers.
What adventure are you gearing up for this season?
We’d love to hear what’s calling you to the water — and if you spot any springtime wildlife along the way, even better!