Kayak: Fluid Fundamentals (Beginner)
Description
This beginners course is for those who have never kayaked and want to learn the basics.
Join a 3 or 5 day course and get paddling!
Starting on calm, flat water, you'll progress to navigating up to Class II+ rapids with confidence.
From learning essential techniques like the “Wet Exit,” “T-Rescue,” and “Eskimo Roll,” to mastering river hydrology, rescue skills, and maneuvering through currents, this course builds your skills step by step.
By the end of the week, you'll have the knowledge and ability to read and run rivers, setting you up to explore Class II+ rapids and even dabble in Class III whitewater.
Itinerary
Meet at Liquid Lifestyles office for check-in, waiver signing and discussion of expectations and requirements in the next couple of days of your Kayak experience. Don't forget to mention any injuries, health concerns, or issues.
Starting on calm, flat water at Dutch Lake, students are introduced and fitted into their whitewater kayaking equipment. Students then practice, in the water, getting in and out of their kayaks- called a “Wet Exit.” From there, fundamental stokes – Forward, Backward, Sweep/Draw Strokes and edging the kayak are introduced. As the morning continues students begin applying the “T-Rescue” and “Hip Flick” which leads to the “Eskimo Roll.” During the afternoon river currents are introduced. Students will discuss and learn about river hydrology and river features on a Class I section of river. An introduction of Eddie Turns and Ferries, as well as the opportunity to swim the river will follow.
Beginning on the river, students will start with “Wet Exits,” “T-Rescues” and fundamental strokes. Then moving onto Class I, students will focus on proper technique and gradually move into easy Class II whitewater as the day progresses. The idea is to become comfortable making difficult moves on an easy section of river. Everyone will practice a “Wet Exit” in the current and a self-rescue to shore. Different rescue techniques like “Throw Bagging” will be introduced later in the course.
Moving to a different section of the Clearwater River, students will continue to refine their fundamental skills. Over the course of the day more difficult maneuvers will be practiced, including linked “Eddie Turns” and “Ferries.” As skill level and comfort level increases, students will move to Class II+ and small Class III whitewater. At this point, skill repetition is vital and a great deal of time will be spent simply executing linked maneuvers on various rapid sections.
The focus on day four will shift from learning new strokes and paddling techniques to river running and reading. It is important by the end of the course that students are able to effectively analyze various rapids and select lines that would be suitable for them to paddle. Being able to select a desired route and execute the line will open the opportunity to apply their fundamental skills to a river running environment.
The fifth day is a complete collaboration of the previous week’s lessons. Students will run a different section of the Clearwater River under the tutelage of their instructor. Students will be encouraged to push their skills in a controlled environment while making river running decisions. By the conclusion of the fifth day, students will have the necessary fundamental skills to go and explore the world of whitewater and feel comfortable kayaking Class II+ and are prepared to try the odd III- rapid.
Your trip photos will be displayed for you to browse and be sure to pick up all your belongings before leaving to the next adventure!
Tour Info
Why take this tour?
Learn the skills you need to paddle the whitewater confidently. We have experienced and certified instructors and provide all the gear and equipment. All you have to bring is your sense of adventure!
Included
Top of the line Kayak equipment
Transportation to and from lake/river
Lunches
Guides and instructions
Access to special rates for other activities and accommodations
Excluded
Tips or gratuities are separate
Frequently asked questions
Things to know
Age Requirement
Kayak Activities are open to Ages 16 and above. Staff retain the right to refuse anyone who may be too small or if the water levels are too rough. Safety is our number one priority and then fun!
Kayak Activities are open to Ages 16 and above. Staff retain the right to refuse anyone who may be too small or if the water levels are too rough. Safety is our number one priority and then fun!
Must be in good condition
Do not consume alcohol or drugs prior to arriving. Staff can refuse anyone suspected to not be in fit condition for safety of themselves and others. You will not be refunded if denied due to intoxication.
Do not consume alcohol or drugs prior to arriving. Staff can refuse anyone suspected to not be in fit condition for safety of themselves and others. You will not be refunded if denied due to intoxication.
Weather Conditions
We run our trips in all types of weather but, we do reserve the right to cancel or change the itinerary when we see fit for your safety. If the company cancels a trip then it will be fully refunded.
We run our trips in all types of weather but, we do reserve the right to cancel or change the itinerary when we see fit for your safety. If the company cancels a trip then it will be fully refunded.
Cancellation Policy
We have the right to cancel and reschedule sessions which may be due to weather or any unforeseeable circumstances. We will notify you ahead of time for any reschedules and cancellations. Refund policy: Full refund with more than 7 days notice, 50% 3-6 days, and no refund less than 3 days notice.
We have the right to cancel and reschedule sessions which may be due to weather or any unforeseeable circumstances. We will notify you ahead of time for any reschedules and cancellations. Refund policy: Full refund with more than 7 days notice, 50% 3-6 days, and no refund less than 3 days notice.
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Why book with us?
- Book instantly directly with provider
- Get the lowest price guarantee
- Worry-free flexible cancellation policy
Human support: 250-674-3307
More Experiences
Kayak: Up the Ante (Novice)
Are you a novice paddler ready to take the next step and feel more confident on the river? This course is designed to help you harness the river’s power, use its features alongside your strokes, and take control of where you go—rather than letting the river decide for you.
Once you’re comfortable with your roll, we’ll move from Dutch Lake to the Clearwater River, introducing you to straightforward rapids with clear, easy-to-read channels. You'll start to understand how the river moves, learning to work with its flow instead of against it. As you refine your roll in river currents—vastly different from still water—you’ll build confidence navigating the rapids.
Think of running rapids as solving a dynamic puzzle rather than braving an overwhelming challenge. With consistent feedback and guidance, we’ll help you refine your skills so you can paddle with poise and control.
Reserve your spot today and take your kayaking to the next level!
Kayak: The Ripple Effect (Intermediate)
The Ripple Effect is your opportunity to elevate your kayaking skills and transform any river into your personal playground. Designed for intermediate paddlers, this course introduces exciting moves like “Squirt Turns,” “Blunts,” “360s,” and “Backdeck Rolls,” giving you the tools to add flair and finesse to your paddling. You'll advance your technique in faster currents and larger waves while honing playboating and river-running skills tailored to your interests.
By this stage, you’ll deepen your understanding of river dynamics, improve your ability to read and scout rapids, and build confidence navigating challenging waters. With a solid roll and growing mastery over wave work, you'll be ready to take on the river with more control and creativity.
Join Liquid Lifestyles for this exciting course and make your next kayaking adventure even more fun and dynamic! Book your spot today!