This past Saturday, July 9th, I had the opportunity to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for the first time in my life at a beautiful lake that also serves as a water reservoir called Timothy Lake.
Kayaking is another option you could try at Timothy Lake.
We arrived at around 9:30 am and started assembling our inflatable paddleboards. The workout begins the moment you start inflating them—you’ll need to use a manual pump similar to those used for inflating mattresses or bicycle tires, relying on arm strength.
The lake is also home to a variety of fish, salamanders, frogs, ducks, and countless bird species, along with lush and colorful flora.
If you’re new to this sport (like me), you can start by kneeling on the board and then slowly standing up to find your balance. I also recommend choosing calm lakes or spots with little wind and waves for your first time. Timothy Lake is an excellent option for beginners.
Although it seems like a calm and easy sport, it requires a lot of balance and engages many parts of your body, including your legs, torso, abdomen, arms, and back. It allows you to exercise while relaxing and appreciating the beauty of nature. It’s a truly fun and fascinating activity.
All you need is a paddleboard, a paddle, a life jacket, and plenty of concentration to avoid falling.
⛰️MY RECOMMENDATIONS
- To enjoy this activity, you’ll need a paddleboard, a paddle, and a life jacket. If you don’t want to or can’t buy them (as they can be expensive), there are shops where you can rent everything. In Portland, you can find Next Adventure where you’ll find all the necessary gear.
- If you’re a beginner, choose a calm and serene spot like Timothy Lake. (As you gain experience, you can try more challenging locations with waves.)
- If you’re looking to buy a paddleboard as a beginner, I recommend the BIC Sport TOUGH-TEC Cross Sup Stand Up Paddleboard
- On sunny days, use plenty of sunscreen like Neutrogena Beach Defense Water Sun Protection Sunscreen Body Spray with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 or wear clothing over your swimsuit to protect yourself from the sun.
- Choose a location where the water isn’t too cold (especially as a beginner), as you’ll likely fall multiple times.
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After the activity, clean and dry all your equipment thoroughly before storing it to prevent mold and unpleasant odors.
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If you’re carrying valuables or items that shouldn’t get wet, I recommend the Acrodo Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack – 15 Liter Outdoor
- Always care for these natural places by carrying out your trash and preserving the ecology.
- If you’re visiting Timothy Lake, you can also check out a nearby small lake with deeply blue water called Little Crater Lake (it’s said to resemble Crater Lake but in a much smaller version).
- As a precaution, bring insect repellent (as water often attracts mosquitoes) and a first aid kit like the Adventure Medical Kits Amk Mountain Backpacker First Aid Kit.