Intro to Kayaking Series

In this brand new 3-part series, we will introduce you to the fundamentals of kayaking in a safe, supportive environment. Starting in the pool, you will learn about proper strokes and paddling technique, and progress to practicing these new skills outdoors on beautiful local lake and river.

• Session One will begin in the classroom with a brief introduction to kayaking and the equipment needed to be safe on the water. We’ll then transition to the pool, where we’ll learn how to enter and exit a kayak and how to use paddle strokes to maneuver. In the comfort of the pool, our supportive instructors will also teach you what to do if you tip over in your kayak and we’ll practice how to exit safely. 
• Session Two will take what you learned in the pool and we’ll head outside to a local flatwater lake, where you will continue to expand your comfort and confidence being in a kayak and practicing basic paddle strokes.
• Session Three serves as capstone of the series, with a beautiful day float down the Shell Rock river between Clarksville and Shell Rock Park. This beginner-friendly stretch of river is a great place to continue to expand your confidence, while viewing wildlife, stopping for sack lunch on a sandbar and enjoying the company of fellow kayak beginners. 

This class is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about kayaking. Participants must be available to attend all three sesions, May 18, June 1 and June 18.

What’s Included: 

Professional instruction and guiding, gear (kayak, paddle, PFD, first aid kit, safety gear). If you’d prefer to bring your own kayak or gear, you are welcome to do so. For the pool session, please ensure that your kayak is very clean before bringing it to the session.

Not Included:

Lunch during Session Three, transportation to/from each event.

Registration: 

Registration is limited to 10 people. A minimum of 5 registrants is required to offer the series.

We have intentionally limited the number of participants on our trips in order to provide a safe and rich outdoor experience.

Locations: 

• May 18: The W Pool, Waverly, IA 6pm - 8:30pm 
• June 1: Big Woods Lake Recreation Area, Cedar Fall, IA 1-4pm
• June 8: Shell Rock River, Clarksville, IA 8:30am-4pm

Cancellation: 

Please read our Trip Cancellation Policy here.