Women's Learn To Kayak 2-Day

Learn to whitewater kayak in a supportive environment with other women. You'll be in the hands of some of the best women paddlers in the business, including our own Anne Sontheimer, NOC's most-requested instructor.

Thousands of women have learned to paddle in our world-renowned kayaking courses. This 2-Day Course will help you get started developing a foundation of whitewater skills and techniques. Through our industry standard "Rapid Progressions" learning system, you'll start kayaking on flatwater, and then enjoy the excitement of an easy section of whitewater.

Itinerary
Although each class varies with the needs and desires of the group, the following is an example of your itinerary:

Friday
After check-in, the evening starts with dinner at Relia's Garden Restaurant where you will meet your instructors and the other women in your group. There, the group can share their interest in whitewater and goals for the weekend. After dinner, you'll get a chance to review the activities of the weekend and watch part of your new copy of the Kayaker's Toolbox DVD.

Saturday
After breakfast, you'll head to our equipment area where your instructor will help you select gear that best fits your needs and paddling style, or help you have the best fit for optimal performance with your own gear. The next stop will be at a nearby lake for practice getting into the boat as well as getting out it in the water, known as a "wet exit." We'll then move on to the basic strokes and techniques you'll need on the river. A deli-style lunch offers a break during the middle of the day. Most groups like to head to a short stretch of moving water such as the scenic Little Tennessee or easy section of the Tuckasegee to feel the kayak in motion and the splash of waves in their faces. Other groups enjoy practicing their new skills on flatwater. Finish the day with another hearty meal, the chance to share stories of the day's adventures and enjoy the evening in the Paddler's Pub.

Sunday
After breakfast, some groups may return to the lake for more practice on flatwater skills. Other groups are ready to head straight to the river for a full day of excitement on the Little Tennessee, Tuckasegee or the Nantahala. Everyone will have the opportunity to learn how to "read the rapids" on the river to allow for the easiest (or for some, the most challenging) routes down river. Our instructors excel at teaching you the best way to cross the river, work your way in and out of the calm areas (eddies) and generally have the most fun on the river. Finish the day with a delicious farewell dinner together where you can exchange emails with your new paddling companions. You'll also receive one of our coveted NOC Instruction t-shirts as your graduation diploma before saying goodbye to your new friends.

We focus on your safety while teaching you how to manage unforeseen challenges on the water. During our river time over the weekend, we'll have the opportunity to paddle on Class I and easier Class II rapids. If you are not sure how rapids are classified, visit the AW International Scale of River Difficulty page.

Look here to see the full list of Kayak Rapid Progressions Guaranteed Skills (PDF format)

Contact Us
Call the Guest Relations Office at 800-232-7238 for information regarding availability and options.

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