Intro to White Water Kayaking – Learning the Basics

OVERVIEW

In order to learn how to maneuver your kayak in white water, you must first learn how to paddle. We’ll spend Sunday at Beaver Creek learning the basics of kayaking – the forward stroke, wet exiting, rescue and recovery techniques, and some maneuvers that you use on the river. At the end of each session we’ll spend a few minutes going over the techniques involved in the eskimo roll. After this lesson, you will be qualified to test your skills in white water (where I can take you throughout the year depending on water level). I will meet you out at Beaver Creek so you need to be able to transport yourself there. If you need a ride, I can attempt to make carpool arrangements. You can get directions to Beaver Creek (~10 miles west of town) by clicking on the “Beaver Creek” link under the “Destination Location” header.

NOTE: This is a trip for complete beginners, so please DO NOT sign up if you have paddling experience in a white water kayak. If you have no experience, this class is a requirement for you to go on future river trips with the club.

***UVA Outdoors provides:
Kayak, paddle, skirt, helmet, pfd (personal flotation device), wet suit, nose plugs.

***What you should bring:
swim wear, towel, water, sunscreen