Gorge Paddling Center, now operating as Pedal & Paddle Hood River, offers kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals directly on the Hood River waterfront in Oregon, along with guided kayak tours and e-bike rentals. The business launches from Nichols Boat Basin, a protected inlet shielded from the wind and current of the Columbia River, making it accessible for paddlers of all ages and skill levels.
The rental fleet includes both sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks, with sit-on-top models recommended for less experienced paddlers since they’re easier to right and reboard if flipped in changing wind conditions. A fleet of 30 solid-construction stand up paddleboards, developed in partnership with local retailer Pure Stoke, rounds out the self-guided rental options. For those comfortable venturing further, the protected inlet offers direct access to the open waters of the Columbia River and the roughly one-mile journey out to the locally popular Wells Island.
Beyond standalone rentals, the business also runs guided flatwater kayak tours through the heart of the Columbia Gorge, including a popular sunset tour and a daytime tour, both led by knowledgeable local guides and meeting at a separate location from the main rental site. E-bike rentals are also available for exploring the Historic Highway and Twin Tunnels toward Mosier.
With more than a decade of kayak rental experience and back-to-back TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards in 2022 and 2023, the business has built a strong reputation for family-friendly service and well-maintained equipment, backed by a flexible cancellation policy for rentals canceled more than 24 hours in advance.
For visitors looking to kayak, paddleboard, or bike the Hood River waterfront and Columbia River Gorge, Pedal & Paddle Hood River (formerly Gorge Paddling Center) offers a well-reviewed, multi-activity rental operation right on the water.
