A "Paddle Out," also called a grief paddle, is a ritual in which participants gather to form a circle on the river, place flowers in the water, and splash water in honor of a lost loved one or to address societal grief collectively. This tradition is a modern adaptation of an age-old custom among mourners, offering a communal space for healing, remembrance, and the processing of difficult emotions.

All paddlers are welcome to participate, whether in silent reflection or in sharing a story, a poem, or a song. The Paddle Outs will be held in the evening and adorned with beautifully lit paper lanterns made by local artists. When the gathering concludes, paddlers are welcome to spend time exploring by paddling up into the Dalles and around the landing area, enjoy a picnic, or take a walk in the park. Paddlefish Adventures will load the shuttle by 8:45pm to have the group back to their vehicles by 9:00pm. 

• Paddlefish Adventures: Guide Service, shuttle, canoe or kayak rental, paddle, and life jackets.  

• Better Place Forests: Provides flowers and leads the Paddle Out Ceremony.

• Treehaus Studio: Provides a selection of handmade Paper Lanterns for the group to adorn their canoe. 

Sunday, September 20th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Registration: $50/paddler (fee includes shuttle service, boat rental, life jacket and paddles)

If you are interested in booking a private Paddle Out contact Jessica Turtle to make arrangements.

Registration is processed through Paddlefish Adventures.