Whitewater Kayaking 101
Kernville, CA.
Min of 2 pax req for first booking | 1, 2 or 3 Day Classes (6-7 Hours per Day) l Ages 14+ l Beginner
Whitewater Kayaking 101
Exciting, dynamic, and rewarding, whitewater kayaking is the most challenging of all the various styles of kayaking available.
- 6% online booking convenience fee included at check-out
Duration
1, 2, or 3 days (6-7 hours per day)
About
With this class, we've successfully created river kayakers for 30+ years. Our proven teaching method takes you through a gradual progression that maximizes the fun. We've designed our beginning class for those who have never river kayaked before, or who have played around with kayaking some, but have not had formal instruction in the fundamentals of river kayaking. Take this class if you are a sea kayaker or surf kayaker paddling on the river for the first time.
The 101 class starts on the flatwater of Isabella Lake, where you will learn essential boating skills such as the wet-exit, self-rescue, partner-assisted rolls, and efficient stroke technique. At the end of the morning session, we will break for a hearty lunch and preview the afternoon's challenges. We spend the afternoon on the lake developing more of the steering and balancing skills needed to do river maneuvers such as peel-outs, ferries, and eddy turns. These and other techniques are required to become a safe, efficient whitewater kayaker.
You'll begin your second day with a review of the first day's progress and an introduction to river reading and more safety skills. We will progress to the river to practice our new techniques on moving water. After lunch, the two-day class graduates take an exciting run down a class II-III whitewater section of the Kern. Upon completion of this class, students will receive a free kayak package rental and be eligible to rent a kayak in the future. What are you waiting for? Come out and learn a great new way to play! Classes start at 8:30 am sharp and are usually over by 4 pm. Included are paddling equipment, lunch, and transportation once you get to Sierra South.
Highlights:
• Students will learn the basic skills necessary to whitewater kayak.
• Certificate of Completion.
• Upon completion of this class, students will receive a free kayak package rental and be eligible to rent a kayak in the future.
• All gear, transportation, and lunch is included.
• Months of operation: March - September
• Trip Times: 8:30 AM
• Minimums: Age: 14 Weight: 50lbs (We may weigh small children)
• Maximum Weight: 275lbs
• Limitations: All classes require a minimum number of guests. If participant numbers are not met we will notify you and provide various options for your class to go.
All of our classes may be adjusted based on water levels and/or other conditions.
What to Bring
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your class.
• Please wear shoes that will stay on your feet in the water. No flip-flops or bare-feet. You must wear tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals that have a heel strap.
• Our trips leave on schedule.
• Price does not include gratuity, so if you like the ride…it's ok to tip your guide! Bring cash for tips. Last-minute items in our retail store can be paid by cash, credit or debit card.