Straight Up Kayaks

What's the best way to start whitewater kayaking?

I live in Denver, Colorado and I've taken 2 whitewater kayaking lessons before and LOVED it. I'm kind of a ski bum and need something to do in the off season. I don't want to spend thousands of dollars getting set up, and these lessons are either beginner or expert it seems (and EXPENSIVE). My friends are all scared of the water so I have no one to do it with. Where do I begin?

Public Comments

1. It's good that you've started with lessons. At least in my area, a common sequence for beginners is to take three 2-day lessons. Some outfitters also have the option of doing all 3 lessons over the course of 5 days or so. If it's been a long time since you had those first lessons, you might want to start at the beginning. This would get you onto most Class II and a little bit of Class III. It isn't cheap, but it's well worth the one-time investment. You'll also want to learn to roll. I highly recommend a lesson from a qualified, experienced instructor for this. Some people do learn from friends, but you need to be absolutely certain they know what they're doing. Otherwise, it'll make learning very difficult and you could even injure yourself. At some point, you may also want to take a swiftwater rescue course (or more accurately, the people you end up boating with might want you to take one). Saying that lessons are only for a beginner or an expert might be a bit of an overstatement. But it is true that beyond that beginning set of lessons, an outfitter will expect that you've had some paddling experience on your own. The best way to get this experience is to join a club and sign up for club trips. Check with the ACA (link below) to find clubs in your area (which should be no problem in Colorado!). Usually experienced members are more than willing to mentor beginners. Club members will also have advice and information on kayaks and gear when you're ready to buy. They may have classifieds and gear swaps. For your first boat, find a used one. A decent used boat can be had for somewhere between $200-500.
2. You pose a question that is difficult to answer. The best way to learn whitewater kayaking is at a kayak school. The next best is at a local club that has access to a swimming pool. Kayaking is experiencing accidents. Common factors include: Lack of skill, improper gear or boat and ignorance of safety rules. Kayaking is a life-time sport. Denver did have a special whitewater course so I assume there is a local club. Inquire. Try Buena Vista for information. The Arkansas Rivers is one of the best in the world for kayaking!