The class we teach is the "Essentials of River Kayak" as approved by the American Canoe Association (ACA). Classes will be taught by an experienced ACA certified instructor.

This is an introductory class in which you will learn the skills needed to become a competent recreational paddler on lakes and easy rivers. This is for brand new paddlers or paddlers with a little experience that want to take their skills to the next level. After mastering these skills, transitioning to white water paddling becomes much easier.

Course Description:

THIS IS AN ALL DAY CLASS. WE NORMALLY GET BACK TO THE CARS BETWEEN 6:00 AND 6:30

We spend a day on the Hooch teaching basic kayaking skills. The class begins at Buford Dam where we discuss river safety and paddling principles. This part of the river is slow moving and essentially flat. We cover basic paddle strokes and boat control before moving down the river.

We stop for lunch somewhere down stream around 1-1:30 so eat a good breakfast and maybe bring a granola bar to keep you going.

You will be learning boat control in class I and II rapids.

After lunch it is back to the water where we continue to practice our skills. Our take out point will be Settles Bridge Park.

At the end of the course, you should feel comfortable paddling rivers with Class II rapids which means you can paddle the Chattahoochee from Buford Dam to Florida!

Expect to spend approximately 1 hour in a riverside class, then approximately 5-6 hours on the river.

We will furnish the boat, the paddle and the PFD (personal flotation device/life jacket) or you can use your own equipment. If you have your own equipment, I recommend bringing it so you can practice with what you normally use.

You will need to bring a lunch, plenty of drinks and of course sun screen. (ice chests do not fit in the boats unless they are the very small soft type)

Dress to get wet. Cotton and denim are the two worst things you can wear. If you have a light weight rain jacket, it is always a good idea to bring it.

Good water shoes are required. No open toed sandals please. Shoes without laces are best.

Sunglasses should be on a safety cord. Assume that everything you bring to the river will get wet. ZIPLOC bags are not water proof. You instructor will have water proof bags for any items that might get damaged by water.

We do not teach the kayak roll in this class. Helmets and spray skirts are not required.

We meet at Up the River Outfitters at 9:00. Cars will be left at this location, you will be picked up at the end of the day and shuttled back to your cars. (KEYS SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE OUTFITTERS)

WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR THIS CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL ME OR ANSWER THE QUESTION ABOUT A GOOD CONTACT PHONE NUMBER AND EMAIL ADDRESS.

If you have any questions please call or email John Miller at [masked] or [masked]