This one day course is appropriate for all those who kayak Class III whitewater and is intended as an official documented benchmark or competency check.

“This ACA Assessment Course is designed to evaluate your ability to perform all of the skills listed and demonstrate an appropriate level of paddling knowledge. This assessment course provides the opportunity for you to receive documentation of having achieved this level of paddling ability.”

This Assessment class is open to all, but you are encouraged to be an American Canoe Association member before taking this class. ACA members will receive the official Assessment Award after the class. Assessment Awards are required before participation in an ACA Leader or Guide Training Course and will be required for all new kayak instructors beginning in October of 2026.

The program will cover all the essential strokes, maneuvers, and concepts for kayaking Class III whitewater. Particular emphasis will be put on safety and proficiency. While the skills covered will be in the category of a review, plenty of attention will be given to skills refinement and progression, as well as video analysis as time allows.

Prerequisites:

• A basic roll in a hardshell kayak is required.

• Comfort level with kayaking in a Class III environment, such as Browns Canyon

• Participants should be prepared to bring their own kayak or arrange a rental from a kayak shop of their choice.

Offered in 2026:

• June 5

Note: Update and Assessment courses can be arranged on a custom basis for you, your group, or your organization. Please contact us to discus alternate date options.

An Advanced L5 Assessment for Class IV Whitewater is possible on an individual or custom basis. This option would require proficiency on a section similar to The Numbers of the Arkansas and can be arranged after a consultation with our lead kayak instructor.