Enjoy a 2-day river trip with camping and learn the basics of paddling an inflatable kayak!
You’ll be outfitted with a single inflatable kayak for a hands-on (i.e. wet!) class and guided adventures that includes basic instruction of skills and maneuvers along with considerable on-water time.
In this 2-day adventure, we'll cover the necessities of river paddling, including... river safety, an overview of river hydrology, capsizes and re-entry, paddlestrokes, boat handling and maneuvering, and how to avoid common injuries. This trip takes place on Class I-III whitewater and is designed for beginning paddlers who have a desire to safely navigate and enjoy Class II rivers.
On day #1 we will spend time getting familiar and comfortable with our equipment by practicing skills in a flatwater eddy or calm river section. Once you've gained some experience in paddling, maneuvering through eddy lines, and getting into/out of your boat we'll travel downriver for an afternoon of skill-building and fun! We'll be camping at our private riverside campground near the town of Index after a delicious dinner and a soak in the hot tub.
Day #2 includes another down-river trip as we continue to gain confidence and learn basic rescue/safety skills. You'll learn to maneuver around rocks and other objects as you practice your paddletrokes and basic rescues. Throughout the trip your instructors will help you to build your kayaking skills and increase your river safety awareness.
What's Included: Wetsuit (sleeveless), pfd, helmet, booties, inflatable kayak, paddle, instruction, river shuttles, campsite, 1 dinner, and 1 lunch.
What to Bring: Swimsuit/Trunks, Towel, Synthetic Shirts (such as fleece and under armor - for paddling), Tent, Sleeping Pad, Pillow, Sleeping Bag, Clothes for Camp, Breakfast, Water Bottle(s), Snacks, Headlamp, Cash for tips and Snacks, and a sense of adventure!
We keep our numbers low with a high instructor to participant ratio. Group size is generally 6-12 paddlers.
There is a minimum of 4 participants to run this trip. Please call for private lesson options if you have less than 4 in your group, or to find out when other groups are scheduled.
Trip includes approximately 3-4 hours of water time each day for 2 consecutive days.
Course Equivalent : American Canoe Association (ACA) River Kayaking (Level 3)
Additional Instruction and Paddling Opportunities
This course is a pre-requisite for participating in our Main Skykomish Inflatable Kayak Trip and is a great preface into hardshell kayaking.
River Rating
Class I-III
