| There are a lot of ways to put together a great weekend. Here are some of our suggestions to help you get started. As a beginner or novice, we have several suggestions. First, start with the basics. If you are unsure about your skill level, take one step down. Even the most advanced paddlers learn something new when taking basic classes. This include classes with basics in the title, such as Solo and Tandem Canoe Basics, Kayak Basics, etc. For brand new paddlers, sometimes the classes are a lot of information, and you don't want to drink from a firehouse for three days. We have found it useful for beginners to take a technical class in the morning, and then take a tour in the afternoon, so you can use the skills you learned in the morning in a more relaxed environment. You can still get pointers from the instructors as you see a beautiful new lake or river. For beginners and novices, you can take any classes anytime you want so long as you're qualified, but here are some suggestions: Tandem Canoe Fri AM: Tandem Canoe Basics Fri PM: Tandem Boat Control or Canadian Style Canoeing Sat AM: Canoe Rescues and Towing or Tour of Your Choice Sat PM: Forward Stroke or Tour Sun AM: Stroke Refinement or Tour of Your Choice Solo Canoe Fri AM: Solo Canoe Basics Fri PM: Boat Control, Canadian Style Paddling, or Tour Sat AM: Advanced Canoe Strokes or Tour Sat PM: Forward Stroke or Tour Sun AM: Stroke Refinement or Tour Recreational Kayak Fri AM: Rec Kayak Basics Fri PM: Boat Control or Rescues or Tour Sat AM: Boat Control or Tour Sat PM: Intro to Moving Water or Tour Sun AM: Tour Sea Kayaking Fri AM: Intro to Sea Kayaking (all day) Fri PM: Intro to Sea Kayaking (all day) Sat AM: Forward Stroke or Tour Sat PM: Combining Strokes/Basic Class/Tour Sun AM: Basic Class/Tour Intermediate and Advanced Classes For Intermediate and Advanced paddlers, consider stretching yourself by taking classes that test your existing skills. For canoeists and recreational kayakers, this is an excellent opportunity to learn more about paddling in moving water. This is different from whitewater, and is more of a primer about handling currents, especially on smaller bodies of water with obstacles such as trees and boulder gardens. For sea kayakers, consider the all-day trip to paddle on Lake Superior, or take classes in rolling or advanced strokes and rescues. If you're interested in more traditional canoeing, taking the Canadian-style canoeing class will teach you how to paddle a tandem canoe as a solo when properly outfitted, and poling a canoe is a great skill for fun, and to navigate shallow rivers. About Tours There are different "flavors" of tours and outings. Some are quite relaxed, such as Nixon Lake and Frank Lake, with a focus on historical and natural themes. Some hikes take place in State Natural Areas and other areas with unique flora and fauna. River trips can be pretty laid back. The point is that none of our outings are designed to tire you out. They're there to enrich your soul and allow you to practice some of your new skills. About Prerequisites We ask for your cooperation when prerequisites are listed. Prerequisites are one way we can be sure that everyone is in a class that is appropriate for their skill level. For your own safety and out of courtesy for others, please be sure you meet all the listed prerequisites when registering for classes and tours. If you have a question, contact us and we can help. |
"The best part about the symposium was being in a community of paddlers in a supportive atmosphere. I prefer solo paddling and getting away from the crowds but I was touched deeply by the positive energy of so many leave-no-trace, silent sports people." "I finally got a chance to do something I always wanted to do." |
