Courses Offered

General Information

Our courses emphasize safety and skill development. We start with basics on flat water and advance to moving water as you learn new skills. Each course builds upon the skills learned in the preceding courses, so you need to take courses in order, or get instructor permission to join an advanced course. Class size is limited to ten participants and must have a minimum of four students. A $30.00 non-refundable deposit will hold your spot in the course, the remainder is due on the first day of class.

Classes are held regardless of the weather. In the event of lightning we will get off the water.

What to Bring & What to Expect

For more information call 907-371-4868 or 907-750-4902.

$30 due at time of registration for all courses listed.

Course 1

Quick Start Your Canoe

$80

Length: 3 hours
Venue: Lake

This course introduces participants to sufficient basic skills and knowledge needed to enjoy canoeing on flat protected waters. No experience required. Course will be offered as needed. Call 907-750-4902 to schedule a time.

MORE INFO

Course 2

Introduction to Canoeing

$115

Length: 6 hours
Venue: Lake
Build a solid paddling foundation by learning a variety of entry level paddling skills. You’ll learn more strokes and maneuvers, practice rescues and learn about the paddling environment, equipment, and trip planning. At the end of this course you’ll feel much more comfortable in a canoe, and be able to show off some cool strokes and maneuvers. Some experience or Quick Start is helpful.

MORE INFO

Course 3

Essentials of River Canoeing

$150

Length: 1 day
Venue: Chena River Downtown

Build on the skills and knowledge learned in previous courses and learn more advanced strokes and maneuvers to safely enjoy paddling on gently flowing rivers. Learn to recognize and avoid common river hazards, how to utilize the current to help you move the canoe where you want it to be, and how to respond to emergencies on moving water.

MORE INFO

Course 4

River Canoeing

$150

Length: 1 day
Venue: Upper Chena

Our most advanced course moves to faster flowing waters, but it is not a whitewater paddling course. You will learn strategies in river running, group communication and group organization on a river, while honing skills and maneuvers from prior courses. The course emphasizes safety and you will practice rescues. Many of the rivers in Interior Alaska require good river running skills and sound judgment, but not advanced whitewater skills. This course will prepare you for them.

MORE INFO

Course 5

Canoe Camping

$300

Length: 3 days
Venue: TBD

This course will include Course 2 and 3 paddling skills as well as other skills needed for a canoe-based camping trip. Topics will include loading your boat, camp site selection and set up, food planning and preparation, back country hygiene and more. Class will meet at the venue.

MORE INFO to come. Check back soon.

Course 6

ACA Instructor Certification Course L1 – L2

$400

Length: 4 days
Venue: Chena River

This Instructor Certification Workshop is suited to those who instruct others (clients, campers, or staff members) in canoeing skills. Successful completion of the course will make you eligible to become an ACA Certified Instructor for River Canoeing Levels 1 & 2. A discount is available for members of the Fairbanks Paddlers Club.