Kayak Series: Flatwater to Moving Water

Hone your paddling technique, learn the basics of reading and navigating river currents, and get familiar with the Mississippi River Paddle Share program while enjoying the beauty of kayaking. In Celebration of the Big Year of Rivers, join instructors from the Outdoor Recreation School and Mississippi Gateway Regional Park for an educational and fun, two-part kayak series. The flatwater lake session will focus on refining our paddle technique while exploring key concepts for kayaking on moving water. The session includes time on the water as well as on-land instruction. The river session starts just below the Coon Rapids Dam and will put our skills into practice. The 7.5-mile route includes occasional mild rapids, fun riffles and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Some endurance and strength is needed for 2-2.5 hours of active paddling. Return shuttle transportation is provided. This series is geared towards people with prior paddling experience who are looking to learn more. Participants must be comfortable on and in the water. Flexibility and balance are needed for getting in and out of the kayak with a reasonable amount of assistance. NOTE: This is not a whitewater kayaking class. July 1 session 5-8pm at Fish Lake Regional Park; July 8 session 5-9pm at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park. $85/person.