- Private Lessons
- Class I-II Rapids
- 10+
- Full Day
This beginner kayaking clinic offers children ages 10-13 a chance to learn whitewater kayaking in a fun and relaxed environment designed just for them.
Quick Details
Offered July 15-16, July 19-20 & July 26-27 2023
Help Your Teens Learn to Kayak
This beginner kayaking clinic on the Deerfield River in Massachusetts offers youth ages 14-17 a chance to learn whitewater kayaking in a fun and relaxed environment designed just for them. Your teen will just love our friendly professional ACA certified instructors.
Your clinic meets at our base in Charlemont, MA promptly at 9 a.m. Complimentary hot drinks are available when you arrive.
We group participants based on experience and ability to allow your kids to enjoy the level of challenge which is appropriate for them. Day one covers basic paddling and safety techniques with a short run of the Deerfield River at the end of the day. On day two, we refine basic skills and add more river running instruction, focusing on eddy turns, peel outs, and ferries on Class I-II whitewater.
More Information
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This program is designed for kids who have never been in a whitewater kayak before but may have had some flatwater experience. No experience is needed but it is important to be comfortable in the water and able to swim.
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While some of the flatwater areas we use are quite warm in June, July and August, the Deerfield River is always cool, regardless of the time of year or air temperature. When packing your paddling clothes, please plan accordingly, especially if you are coming early or late in the season (April, May, September and October). Our clinics run rain or shine.
Wear items such as :
- synthetic long underwear, garments made of polypropylene, Capilene, or some polyester/spandex blend
- fleece or wool socks
- bathing suit
- fleece or wool jacket/sweater (early/late season or if you tend to chill easily)
Other items to bring:
- sunscreen
- sunglasses
- retaining strap for glasses
- nose plugs
- towel
- required medications
- extra money for snacks, T-shirts, or coin-operated showers
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- boat
- wetsuit
- paddle jacket
- booties
- life jacket
- helmet
- paddle
- sprayskirt
If you own your own equipment, we suggest you use it in the clinic to get used to its quirks.
We also provide a catered picnic-style lunch on all our full day clinics.
The following statement is required by state law: “Before placing your order, please inform your server if a person in your party has a food allergy.”
We do not use nuts in our food, but can not guarantee that the ingredients in our meals do not contain nuts or other food allergens. If you have food allergies or other special dietary needs, we strongly suggest you bring your own bag lunch in non-glass containers and we will pack it with the other lunches on your trip. Please inform our office at 413-339-4010 or [email protected] if you intend to do this.