The Friends of Willow River and Kinnickinnic State Parks, Inc. are again offering kayak lessons! No previous kayak experience is required. However, you should be comfortable in water over your head.
You are signing up for a series of four, 1½ hour, kayak lessons.
Lesson Dates: Thursdays, July 16, 23, 30; August 6
Lesson Times: 5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
•Please be on time! Allow at least 30 minutes to drive from the Kinnickinnic Park entrance to the picnic ground parking area and walk down to the beach.
•If you need to register more than two people in each category, you may need to complete multiple registrations.
•Participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
•Class is limited to 10 participants.
•If you have any questions or to register by telephone call (715) 386-9340. Or email willowrivernaturecenter@gmail.com
Lesson Details:
Happy Outdoors Program: Kayaking for Beginners
- Safe and family friendly
- No experience necessary
- All equipment provided (Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation device. You may bring your own PFD.)
- Small group size
You will learn paddling skills from experienced instructors while exploring the beautiful St. Croix and Kinnickinnic Rivers. In this course you will learn how to kayak safely.
Course Topics:
Equipment Overview
Learn what to look for when choosing a kayak or paddle, and how to care for your equipment.
Getting In and Out of a Kayak
How to enter and exit with ease from shore.
Paddling Techniques
Learn basic paddling strokes to move forward, backward, and turn.
Kayaking Awareness
Learn about kayak stability in various water and weather conditions.
Kayaking Safety
What do do, what to take along, leaving a "Float Plan" and why.
Practical hydrology
Lifting a Kayak
How to lift and move a kayak without damaging the kayak or breaking your back.
Kayak Self-Rescue
How to upright, re-enter, or tow an overturned kayak.
