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Whitewater Paddle School est. 1979

Learn to boat your craft - Professional Instruction | Private & Groups

DVK will teach you how to run a oar raft / paddle raft, inflatable kayak

 Our Paddling School offers clinics and courses in various boating crafts to fit your needs. The clinics range from half-day introductory sessions covering basic skills paddling or rafting on one of our Colorado rivers to multi-day paddling courses. We recommend at least a full-day clinic to get the most value from your time on the water.

We will teach you the river reading skills, strokes, and strategies you’ll need to guide yourself or others through flat water or rapids. This is a unique and exhilarating way of learning and experiencing the water regardless of age or previous level of paddling. We will always teach with professional instructors and encourage safety and rescue techniques as part of the clinics and courses.

You can also choose the craft of your choice: oar and paddle rafts, inflatable kayaks, or all three! Our instructors are happy to share their knowledge about the most efficient techniques, and essential judgment calls you need to know to be a safe and proficient boater on any river you might choose to run.

Private Instruction can be arranged for those looking to fine-tune their paddling skills. Beginner to advanced levels is available from May through September.  Consider our NOT for employment in the DVK 14-day guide course in May for extensive training as a professional guide. 

NOTE:  All of our whitewater rafting trips on six rivers can include the instructional option as an add-on to the multi-day trip.