- Difficulty: Class I-II
- Age: 14+
- Length: 4+ hours
- Start Location: Thorp WA
- Class Size: 4-10 People
- Dates: Beginning of May – Mid September
Embark on an educational journey with our River 101 class, where safety and navigation take center stage. During our comprehensive hour-long classroom instruction, our instructors will equip you with the fundamental knowledge of river safety and the art of navigating waterways.
Our instructors will help you master the basics of balance, paddle techniques, and how to fall and get back onto your board safely. They’ll also teach you how to read moving water and understand river hazards so you can navigate the river with ease and skill.
Discover the secrets of reading the water and identifying potential hazards as you prepare to conquer the Upper Yakima River. Feel the rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins as you navigate thrilling class I and II rapids.
Throughout the class, our instructors will not only point out actual river hazards but also empower you to develop the ability to spot them yourself. Embrace the excitement of approaching each rapid with flawless technique.
Take a pause from the action and indulge in a well-deserved riverside picnic. Whether you bring your own homemade meal or have Rills provide a fresh picnic lunch.
As the SUP 101 class draws to a close, bask in a profound sense of pride and achievement, as you navigate the river with ease and expertise. Armed with newfound knowledge and confidence, you’ll be ready to embrace new challenges and embark on thrilling whitewater adventures.
Book your reservation today and let us guide you towards becoming a skilled and confident river explorer!
Reservations made within 48 hours of departure must be made at (509)964-2530
No, the SUP 101 class is designed for beginners with little to no experience. Our instructors will teach you the basics of balance, paddle techniques, and reading moving water.
First, we will meet at the river or at our office in Thorp.
After introductions, we will do a 1-1.5 hour in-class session.
After the classroom portion, you will learn how to inflate your equipment and fit your vests.
Once your equipment is ready, we will start the on-water portion.
On the water your instructor will teach you how to navigate your chosen craft and will help you to identify actual river hazards.
You can book a guided SUP trip! If your group is large enough, you can also request to have a trip. Maybe if you’re really nice to your guide they let you in on some extra tips and tricks.
We recommend wearing quick-drying clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. You’ll also want to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Falling off the board is part of the learning process, and our instructors will teach you how to fall safely and get back on your board.
Our trips run rain or shine, so we recommend bringing appropriate rain gear if there is a chance of precipitation. If conditions are unsafe, we will reschedule the trip.
The SUP 101 class is a beginner-level trip, but it does require some physical exertion. If you have any concerns, please let us know in advance so we can assess your ability level and make recommendations.
The SUP 101 4-5 hours, including the hour-long classroom instruction.
The SUP 101 class is suitable for most people, but yes, it will be physically demanding. Most people are sore in their “stabilizer” muscles after a long day on the river.