Whitewater Kayak: Class 3/4

Nolichucky River or French Broad Section 9

FROM:$175.00

Months of Operation:

March-November

Duration:

8 Hrs

Begins:

9:00 AM

Age Requirements:

Age 10+
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Overview & Highlights

This class is for you if: You are a class 3 or greater kayaker and want to take your paddling to the next level.

Learn to paddle smarter and more confidently as you spend the day on one of the area’s class 3/4 rivers working on improving fundamentals, strokes, boat control and river running technique. Your instructor will start where you are in your paddling progression and build from there so that you can safely achieve your goals and more confidently enjoy your time on the river. Primary rivers include the Nolichucky Gorge and French Broad Section 9, both excellent venues for whitewater kayakers who want to improve their comfort and proficiency on class 3 rivers. River selection will depend on water-levels, abilities and interests of the group. NOTE: Until further notice, primary venue is FB9.

For experienced whitewater kayakers with class 3 or greater skills and a combat roll. All instructors carry professional certification through the ACA.

Students are expected to bring their own boat and gear but are welcome to try one of our kayaks if they would like.

Want more than one day? Consider our Class 3/4 2-Day Clinic, our 3-Day Class 3/4 Whitewater Kayak Immersive or private instruction.
Highlights:
  • Professional, fun kayak instruction by certified instructors
  • Full review of fundamentals, strokes and river moves
  • Further development of fundamentals and skills in a supportive and appropriately challenging environment
  • Paddle trip on one of the region's beautiful class 3 rivers, including the Nolichucky and French Broad Section 9
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Nolichucky River or French Broad River Section 9

2 Jones Branch Rd, Erwin, TN 37650, USA

Additional Information

  • What to Expect

    • Paddling fundamentals review
    • Paddling strokes review including turning, power and bracing strokes
    • River maneuvers deep dive including peel outs, eddy turns and ferries - expect to spend most of the day really digging into these techniques and practicing them in a variety of situations
    • River reading and hydrology and then applying your understanding of these to your paddling
    • Accident prevention and safety

  • Prerequisites

    • Class 3 or greater whitewater kayak skills
    • A combat roll - you will be asked to demonstrate your roll at the put-in and in current at the bottom of the first rapid
    • Good overall health and fitness
    • Be able to wet exit and swim to shore in the event of a capsize
    • Participants must be willing to wear a PFD (personal flotation device) and helmet while on the water

  • Includes

    • Instruction/guiding
    • Shuttle transportation

  • What to Bring

    Whitewater kayak, paddle, PFD, helmet, sprayskirt, drinking water, closed-toe water shoes (open-toed footwear, sandals not permitted), throw rope, suitable clothing for wear on the water (wicking, non-cotton base layers, paddle tops or drysuits as appropriate), breakdown paddle (recommended, stored in boat), lunch in drybag, towel, sunscreen.

  • Meeting Location

    ​​​​Specific river and meeting directions will be communicated to students prior to class.

  • Additional Information

    Food and lodging are the responsibility of participants. Riverside lodging and camping is available onsite at our NOLI outpost and can be reserved directly with USA Raft.  If the class is held on the French Broad there are lodging options in Hot Springs, NC as well.

  • Testimonials

    "My class 3/3+ whitewater kayak class with NOLI was excellent. My instructor was extremely knowledgeable and thorough. We worked on numerous skills while paddling section 9 on the French Broad. I would strongly recommend NOLI for whitewater kayakers of all levels who are looking for instruction. Paddling can be tremendous fun. If you don't believe me, take a class with NOLI. "

    ~ Todd R.

Policies & Agreements

  • Terms and conditions

    I certify that all registrants meet course prerequisites as defined in the course description, meet the minimum age requirements and do not have any medical conditions or limitations that would prevent their ability to safely participate in the activity.

  • Cancellation policy

    NOLI activities go rain or shine. If you cancel or decrease the number of participants in your party the following applies:

    Cancellations 30 or more days prior to your activity will receive a full refund.
    Cancellations 14-29 days prior to the activity date will receive a full reservation booking voucher.
    Cancellations 0-13 days prior to the activity date are not extended a refund or voucher.
    No Shows are not extended a refund or voucher.

Upcoming Dates & Availability

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Grab your spot today!

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