- Difficulty: Class I-II
- Age: 12+
- Length: 1 Hour in class, + 5 hours on river
- Start Location: Thorp WA
- Class Size: 4-10 People
- Dates: Beginning of May – Mid September
During the hour-long classroom instruction of our Kayak 101 class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of river safety and navigation. Our experienced instructors will teach you how to read the water, understand river hazards, and properly set up your boat for a successful run.
Paddle through calm waters and navigate small rapids, feeling the exhilaration of the river rushing past you. Experience the thrill of being in control of your own vessel and the freedom that comes with it. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you pick up the skills needed to navigate the river with ease.
During the class, your expert instructor will point out actual river hazard and help you learn how to spot them yourself. You’ll feel the excitement of hitting each rapid with perfect form and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering a new skill.
As you take a break from the action and stop for a riverside picnic, you’ll taste the delicious flavors of your own homemade meal or the fresh picnic lunch provided by Rills.
By the end of the Kayak 101 class, you’ll feel a sense of pride and accomplishment as you navigate the river with ease and skill. With your new knowledge and confidence, you’ll be ready to take on new challenges and explore the thrill of whitewater rafting.
Reservations made within 48 hours of departure must be made at (509)964-2530
Absolutely! Our kayak 101 class is specifically designed for beginners who want to learn the basics of rafting and feel confident on class I and II rivers.
No, we will provide all the necessary equipment and gear, including life jackets, paddles, and rafts. However, we do recommend wearing comfortable, quick-drying clothing and shoes that can get wet.
Yes, our rafting 101 class will teach you the skills and techniques necessary to navigate class I and II rapids. However, if you’re interested in more advanced rapids, we recommend signing up for our spring guide academy.
While basic swimming skills are recommended, you will be wearing a life jacket and will receive safety instructions as part of the class. Additionally, we will only be rafting on class I and II rivers, which are generally considered safe for beginner rafters.
We will still hold the class in light rain, but if conditions are too severe (such as lightning), we may need to reschedule. In the event of a cancellation, we will work with you to find a new date that works for you.
We use inflatable kayaks for the 101 class. Inflatable kayaks are the perfect choice for beginners because they are stable, easy to maneuver, and incredibly forgiving. Inflatable kayaks are incredibly versatile. They can be used on rivers with class III and IV rapids.