Gear/Equipment:

PARTICIPANTS MUST PROVIDE ALL OF THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT. No gear is included in the clinic fee. Participants must have at a minimum the following:

  • Whitewater canoe
  • Helmet
  • Personal flotation device
  • Paddle
  • Appropriate footwear (paddling booties, water shoes, etc.) is required.  Thin, lower-profile shoes are suggested.  Flip flops are not recommended because they will fall off during a swim.  Sandals such as Tevas, Chacos have the potential to get hung on footpegs during a flip.
  • Also suggested is synthetic clothing such as the following, depending upon how cold-natured you are:
    • Neoprene wetsuit (farmer John/Jane style with no sleeves)
    • Paddling splashjacket or drytop
    • Polyester fleece top
    • Bathing suit (for the ladies a two-piece design tends to be easier when answering the call of nature in the woods…)
    • Polypro underwear/long johns
    • NO COTTON GARMENTS are permitted

We also recommend the following:

  • Plenty of bottled water
  • Lunch you can pack in your boat
  • Sunblock
  • Waterproof camera if desired

At this level, you are expected to have your own gear.

Cost/Registration:
$100.00 for GCA members
$135.00 for non-GCA members (includes GCA membership)

Swimming Ability:

You must be able to swim and should not panic with your head under water. Beginning kayak clinic participants will spend a lot of time upside down inside their kayaks on the lake.

Physical Condition:

Whitewater paddling is a physically and mentally challenging activity that requires fitness, flexibility, and a positive attitude in stressful situations. Kayaking is a high-risk activity for individuals with a history of shoulder dislocations. Applicants should discuss potential physical limitations with the Coordinator before signing up.