Upcoming scheduled classes & events
It has happened! Check out our 2026 season schedule now!
〰️ gift certificates available 〰️
Book now!
〰️
It has happened! Check out our 2026 season schedule now! 〰️ gift certificates available 〰️ Book now! 〰️
Shown here are scheduled classes. Click on a class to learn more, find a date, & sign up!
We have much more availability to book your custom private instruction on a date of your choosing. Assessment and Instructor Update courses can be arranged on a custom basis for you, your group, or your organization. Please contact us to discus!
scroll down or click here to learn more about pricing for custom private instruction for Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, etc.
Raft Instruction
Three-Day Rowing Clinic: Build Skills for Class III Whitewater
Ready to boost your rafting skills? Our Three-Day Rowing Clinic is designed for beginner and intermediate rafters, with no prior experience necessary. You’ll learn the fundamentals of rowing, water reading & scouting, and river safety as you work up to Class III whitewater.
What You’ll Learn:
Rowing Technique: Master the basics of rowing and maneuvering your raft.
Water Reading & Scouting: Learn how to assess river conditions and navigate safely.
River Safety: Build essential rescue skills and understand safety on the water.
Class III Rapids: Progressively tackle more challenging whitewater with confidence.
With hands-on learning in a fun, supportive environment, you’ll leave with the skills and confidence to safely navigate Class III rapids and enjoy your river adventures to the fullest.
Offered in 2026:
May 29 - 31
July 3 - 5
Select date below:
Three-Day All-Women’s Rowing Clinic: Build Skills, Confidence & Have Fun
Join us for a Three-Day All-Women’s Rowing Clinic, designed to help you build and refine your rowing, water reading, and river safety skills in a fun, supportive environment. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate oarswoman, this clinic will guide you through essential skills.
What You’ll Learn:
Rowing Technique: Master rowing fundamentals and learn to navigate your raft with control and confidence.
Water Reading & Scouting: Gain the skills to read the river, scout rapids, and make quick decisions for safe navigation.
River Safety Skills: Build a solid understanding of river safety, including hazard recognition, rescue techniques, and group management.
By the end of this clinic, you’ll have the skills and confidence to dance with the river, all while being part of a supportive group of women who share your love for the water. Come for the skills, stay for the experience.
Offered in 2026:
May 23 - 25
June 26 - 28 (sold out)
July 17 - 19 (sold out)
August 14 - 16
Select date below:
This women’s-specific full-day clinic is designed to give you the essential raft-based river safety skills and teach you how to manage a flip situation, whether you’re in a paddle raft or a gear raft. You'll gain the practical experience and confidence to handle flips, right your raft, and perform key safety techniques on the water. Perfect for beginners or those looking to refresh their skills, this clinic ensures you're prepared for whatever the river throws your way.
Offered in 2026:
July 17
Select date below:
This clinic is designed for experienced rafters who want to take their skills to the next level.
Who it’s for: Rafters who are comfortable navigating Class III whitewater (like Browns Canyon) and want to enhance their rowing, water reading, scouting, and river safety skills.
What you’ll do:
Work through Class III-IV rapids to progressively build your technical skills.
Refine your rowing technique, improve your control, and boost your confidence in more challenging whitewater.
Focus on advanced rowing skills, rapid scouting, and safety protocols to confidently handle more complex river conditions.
What you’ll gain: A stronger foundation in the skills needed to tackle Class III-IV rapids and enhance your overall river safety and technique.
Offered in 2026:
July 11 - 12
*ONE OF A KIND NEW ADDITION!*
Level Up Your River Skills: 4-Day Swiftwater Rescue + Rowing Tune-Up!
Ready to boost your confidence, sharpen your technique, and get dialed for your next boating adventure? Join us on the Arkansas River near Salida for a high-energy, hands-on 4-day hybrid clinic combining 2 days of Swiftwater Rescue with 2 days of rowing skill refinement.
Days 1–2: Swiftwater Rescue
What You’ll Learn:
Gain practical experience in assessing river conditions, making smart decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. Throughout the course, you'll develop critical skills to ensure both personal and group safety.
Topics Include:
River rescue techniques tailored for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Progressive vector systems for efficient rescue operations
Through a hands-on, practical approach, you'll have the opportunity to practice these skills in real river conditions, working alongside experienced instructors in a supportive environment. Teamwork, communication, and staying calm under pressure will be key themes throughout the clinic.
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a respected credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Days 3–4: Rowing Tune-Up
The Two-Day Rowing Clinic is designed for intermediate rower, with some prior experience. You’ll tuneup the fundamentals of rowing, water reading & scouting, and river safety as you work up in Class III whitewater. In addition, we’ll incorporate swiftwater rescue scenarios throughout.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Rowing Technique: Master the basics of rowing and maneuvering your raft
Water Reading & Scouting: Learn how to assess river conditions and navigate safely
River Safety: Build essential rescue skills and understand safety on the water
Class III Rapids: Progressively tackle more challenging whitewater with confidence
Applicable boat based rescue scenarios
Incorporation of other Swiftwater Rescue techniques from the first two days
With hands-on learning in a fun, supportive environment, you’ll leave with the skills and confidence to safely navigate Class III rapids and enjoy your river adventures to the fullest.
Who Should Attend?
This clinic is ideal for rafters who want to feel more prepared and confident on the water.
We look forward to helping you build the skills you need for safe and enjoyable river adventures!
Offered in 2026:
July 30 - Aug 2
River Safety & rescue
Join Our Two-Day Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic!
Held on the scenic Arkansas River near Salida, this hands-on clinic is designed for river enthusiasts of all skill levels—whether you're a beginner, a private boater, or an experienced commercial guide. Our goal is to provide you with the skills and confidence to stay safe on the water and respond effectively in emergencies.
What You’ll Learn:
Gain practical experience in assessing river conditions, making smart decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. Throughout the course, you'll develop critical skills to ensure both personal and group safety.
Topics Include:
River rescue techniques tailored for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient rescue operations
Through a hands-on, practical approach, you'll have the opportunity to practice these skills in real river conditions, working alongside experienced instructors in a supportive environment. Teamwork, communication, and staying calm under pressure will be key themes throughout the clinic.
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a respected credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
Whether you’re looking to build new river safety skills or refresh your existing knowledge, this clinic is ideal for anyone who wants to feel more prepared and confident on the water.
We look forward to helping you build the skills you need for safe and enjoyable river adventures!
Offered in 2026:
May 2 - 3
June 6 - 7
July 6 - 7
August 8 - 9 - CANCELLED DUE TO LOW WATER
Select date below:
Women’s 2-Day Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic
Join us on the Arkansas River near Salida for a women’s-only, hands-on clinic designed for all experience levels—whether you're new to whitewater, a private boater, or an experienced guide. This course provides the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe on the water and respond effectively in emergencies.
What You’ll Learn
This 2-day clinic focuses on assessing river conditions, making informed decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. You'll develop essential skills to ensure both personal and group safety in a supportive learning environment.
Topics Covered:
River rescue techniques for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning and decision-making for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient operations
Through hands-on training in real river conditions, the course emphasizes practical application, teamwork, and effective communication under pressure.
Certification
Participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
Ideal for women looking to develop or refresh river safety skills and gain confidence on the water.
Join us for two days of hands-on learning to enhance your river safety and rescue abilities.
Offered in 2026:
May 16 - 17
June 13 - 14
July 25 - 26
Select date below:
Join Our Three-Day Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic!
Held on the scenic Arkansas River near Salida, this hands-on clinic is designed for all skill levels—whether you're new to whitewater, a private boater, or an experienced commercial guide. Over the course of three days, you'll have the opportunity to build skills, gain confidence, and practice essential rescue techniques in a supportive and empowering environment.
What You’ll Learn:
Gain practical experience in assessing river conditions, making informed decisions, and responding to swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. The extended format allows for more in-depth instruction and additional practice to ensure both personal and group safety.
Topics Include:
River rescue techniques for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient rescue operations
Advanced hazard recognition and mitigation strategies
Leadership and teamwork in rescue situations
This hands-on clinic provides ample time to practice skills in real river conditions under the guidance of experienced instructors. The course emphasizes teamwork, communication, and maintaining composure under pressure—key components of effective rescue response.
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a respected credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
This clinic is perfect for those looking to develop or refine their river safety and rescue skills, whether they are new to swiftwater or seeking to enhance their existing knowledge.
Offered in 2026:
May 23 - 25
July 10 - 12
Select date below:
Women’s 3-Day Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic
Join us on the Arkansas River near Salida for a women’s-only, hands-on clinic designed for all experience levels—whether you're new to whitewater, a private boater, or an experienced guide. This course provides the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe on the water and respond effectively in emergencies.
What You’ll Learn
This 3-day clinic focuses on assessing river conditions, making informed decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. You'll gain essential skills to ensure both personal and group safety in a supportive learning environment.
Topics Covered:
River rescue techniques for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning and decision-making for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient operations
Hazard recognition and mitigation
Teamwork and leadership in rescue situations
With hands-on training in real river conditions, the course emphasizes practical application, teamwork, and effective communication under pressure.
Certification
Participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
Ideal for women looking to develop or refresh river safety skills and gain confidence on the water.
Join us for three days of skill-building and hands-on experience to enhance your river safety and rescue abilities.
Offered in 2026:
August 21 - August 23 - CANCELLED FOR THIS YEAR DUE TO LOW WATER. JOIN US IN 2027!
LGBTQ+ Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic
Join us for a two-day LGBTQ+ focused swiftwater safety and rescue clinic on the Arkansas River near Salida. This course provides a supportive and inclusive environment for learning the fundamentals of swiftwater rescue—no prior experience required. Whether you're a commercial guide or a private boater, this clinic is designed to build confidence and essential skills for staying safe on the river.
What You’ll Learn:
Participants will develop a strong foundation in river safety through hands-on practice and expert instruction. Topics include:
River rescue techniques for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bag use
Planning and decision-making for swiftwater situations
Extractions and syncs for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient operations
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
This course is perfect for anyone in the LGBTQ+ community looking to learn or refresh their river safety skills in a welcoming and empowering space.
Join us for two days of skill-building, teamwork, and adventure while developing the confidence to navigate swiftwater environments safely.
Offered in 2026:
July 16 - 17
Advanced Swiftwater Rescue Workshop
Take your swiftwater rescue skills to the next level with this Advanced SWR workshop! Designed for those with prior swiftwater rescue experience, this course focuses on practical, high-level skill development to help you tackle more challenging rescue scenarios with confidence and efficiency.
What to Expect:
This workshop emphasizes hands-on, scenario-based training with minimal classroom review, allowing you to refine and advance your rescue techniques in real river conditions.
Skills Covered:
Swimming techniques for swiftwater environments
Advanced rope work and rigging strategies
Accessing challenging and technical locations
Complex mechanical advantage systems for efficient rescues
Decision-making and leadership in high-stress situations
Prerequisites:
Participants must have completed an ACA Level 4 Swiftwater Rescue class or equivalent. This course is designed as a next-level skills development workshop and will focus primarily on in-water rescues and technical systems rather than basic theory.
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for experienced paddlers, professional guides, and rescue personnel looking to enhance their swiftwater rescue capabilities and take on more advanced challenges.
Get ready to push your limits, hone your skills, and elevate your river rescue expertise.
Offered in 2026:
July 13 - 14
*ONE OF A KIND NEW ADDITION!*
Level Up Your River Skills: 4-Day Swiftwater Rescue + Rowing Tune-Up!
Ready to boost your confidence, sharpen your technique, and get dialed for your next boating adventure? Join us on the Arkansas River near Salida for a high-energy, hands-on 4-day hybrid clinic combining 2 days of Swiftwater Rescue with 2 days of rowing skill refinement.
Days 1–2: Swiftwater Rescue
What You’ll Learn:
Gain practical experience in assessing river conditions, making smart decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. Throughout the course, you'll develop critical skills to ensure both personal and group safety.
Topics Include:
River rescue techniques tailored for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Progressive vector systems for efficient rescue operations
Through a hands-on, practical approach, you'll have the opportunity to practice these skills in real river conditions, working alongside experienced instructors in a supportive environment. Teamwork, communication, and staying calm under pressure will be key themes throughout the clinic.
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a respected credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Days 3–4: Rowing Tune-Up
The Two-Day Rowing Clinic is designed for intermediate rower, with some prior experience. You’ll tuneup the fundamentals of rowing, water reading & scouting, and river safety as you work up in Class III whitewater. In addition, we’ll incorporate swiftwater rescue scenarios throughout.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Rowing Technique: Master the basics of rowing and maneuvering your raft
Water Reading & Scouting: Learn how to assess river conditions and navigate safely
River Safety: Build essential rescue skills and understand safety on the water
Class III Rapids: Progressively tackle more challenging whitewater with confidence
Applicable boat based rescue scenarios
Incorporation of other Swiftwater Rescue techniques from the first two days
With hands-on learning in a fun, supportive environment, you’ll leave with the skills and confidence to safely navigate Class III rapids and enjoy your river adventures to the fullest.
Who Should Attend?
This clinic is ideal for rafters who want to feel more prepared and confident on the water.
We look forward to helping you build the skills you need for safe and enjoyable river adventures!
Offered in 2026:
July 30 - Aug 2
Professional Development
Discounted price benefits Worldwide Women of Whitewater!
Hosted by American Whitewater Expeditions on the American River in California.
ACA Instructor Certification Workshops (ICWs) are intensive, high-level professional development programs designed for guides and whitewater professionals aspiring to achieve ACA instructor certification. As the global leader in paddlesports education, the American Canoe Association (ACA) is widely recognized for setting the industry standard in safety, instructional excellence, and skills development.
These workshops are meticulously structured to provide participants with the knowledge, technical proficiency, and teaching strategies required to meet the ACA’s rigorous certification standards. By participating in an ICW, professionals not only enhance their own technical skills but also develop a deeper understanding of how to communicate effectively as educators in challenging environments.
Key benefits of ACA ICWs include:
Advanced technical training in paddlesports safety and rescue techniques.
In-depth teaching methodology development to improve instructional effectiveness.
Hands-on learning opportunities with expert mentors and real-world scenarios.
Formal evaluations and peer feedback to refine instructional approaches.
A globally recognized certification that enhances career prospects and professional credibility.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your career or establish yourself as a leading authority in paddlesports instruction, these workshops offer an unparalleled opportunity. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and the development of advanced teaching methodologies, preparing instructors to confidently lead and inspire others in diverse paddling scenarios.
Earning ACA instructor certification is more than just a credential; it’s a globally recognized mark of excellence that signifies a commitment to professional growth, safety leadership, and instructional expertise. For those dedicated to advancing their careers and contributing meaningfully to the paddlesports community, ACA ICWs are an essential next step.
Instructor Trainer: Elisha McArthur
Offered in 2026:
June 8 - 12
This two-day course is designed specifically for current American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 4 Instructors—both paddle and oar—who are seeking to upgrade their certification to Level 5. Held at the Canyon River Instruction campus and the Arkansas River near Salida, CO, this ACA Instructor Upgrade is a pivotal step for instructors aiming to expand their credentials and expertise to teach in more advanced and challenging whitewater environments.
Key highlights of this course include:
Preparation to teach Class IV whitewater: Develop the skills, decision-making, and safety awareness required for more advanced whitewater conditions.
Hands-on training in high-demand environments: Gain experience navigating and instructing in complex river scenarios.
Expert mentorship: Work with seasoned instructors to refine your techniques and instructional methods.
Certification upgrade: Earn the Level 5 Raft Instructor designation, opening doors to teach in more challenging and demanding settings.
By achieving the Level 5 Raft Instructor designation, participants will:
Be qualified to teach in more complex and demanding conditions, broadening their instructional opportunities.
Enhance their professional development and credibility within the paddlesports community.
Be well-positioned to work with advanced groups and take on leadership roles in higher-risk environments.
This course is an invaluable opportunity for those committed to advancing their career and becoming leaders in paddlesports education.
Offered in 2026:
TBD
This six-day ACA Instructor Certification Workshop (ICW) is an intensive and immersive program designed for guides and whitewater professionals seeking to achieve ACA instructor certification for Swiftwater Rescue. The American Canoe Association (ACA) is internationally recognized as the leading authority in paddlesports education, setting the benchmark for safety, technical proficiency, and instructional excellence.
This workshop offers participants a unique opportunity to advance their careers while refining their instructional techniques. It combines in-depth technical training, real-world teaching practice, and professional mentorship to prepare participants for the responsibilities of an ACA-certified instructor.
Program highlights include:
Comprehensive instruction in Rescue techniques, rescue strategies, and safety management.
Practical teaching experience with feedback from experienced ACA instructor trainers.
Rigorous preparation to meet the ACA’s high standards for certification.
Achieving ACA certification is a significant professional milestone that enhances credibility, broadens career opportunities, and equips participants to teach with confidence and authority. This workshop is an invaluable step for professionals looking to elevate their expertise and establish themselves as leaders in paddlesports education.
Please contact the Instructor Trainer, Alan Cammack, with any questions or to discuss the instructor path.
Offered in 2026:
April 20 - 25
ACA Instructor Certification Workshops (ICWs) are comprehensive, hands-on professional development programs specifically designed for whitewater guides and paddlesports professionals seeking to achieve instructor certification through the American Canoe Association (ACA). As the globally recognized authority in paddlesports education, the ACA certification is a prestigious credential that enhances professional credibility, opens doors to advanced career opportunities, and signifies a commitment to excellence in safety and instruction.
These workshops are not just about earning certification—they focus on helping participants refine their teaching techniques, deepen their technical expertise, and build the skills necessary to lead effectively in a wide range of kayaking environments.
Key benefits of the ACA ICW include:
Professional growth: Gain a respected credential that elevates your standing within the paddlesports community.
Enhanced teaching skills: Learn advanced methods to effectively communicate, engage, and inspire students.
Technical mastery: Refine your paddling and safety techniques to meet the rigorous standards of ACA certification.
Expert instruction: Receive mentorship from experienced professionals committed to helping you succeed.
This L4 Kayak ICW will be led by Alan Cammack, owner of Canyon River Instruction (CRI). The L4 Kayak Instructor Certification is appropriate for those wishing to teach and lead river kayaking on sections that are considered to be up to and including Class III. This course is a true evaluation and participation in the class does not automatically mean certification at the highest level.
Offered in 2026:
TBD - This course date has changed and we have not yet finalized a new schedule. If you or your team are interested in this form of instruction, please contact us for more information or to schedule a custom course.
This comprehensive two-day course is specifically designed for current American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 3 & 4 Kayak Instructors who require certification renewal as part of their 4 year certification cycle. The program offers an in-depth review and update of essential teaching protocols and practice, advanced rescue techniques, ACA updates and skills refinement. Participants will engage in both classroom instruction and practical, hands-on training sessions to ensure they are fully prepared to meet evolving industry standards and assure that skill remain sharp
The course will be held at the Canyon River Instruction campus, with additional practical components conducted on the Arkansas River near Salida, Colorado. This unique setting provides an immersive learning environment that simulates real-world conditions, enhancing the overall training experience and ensures participants leave with a renewed commitment to excellence in kayak instruction.
Offered in 2026:
July 1-2
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.
With guest instructor Tommy Gram of Whitewater Attainment.
This two-day course is designed specifically for current American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 4 Kayak Instructors who are seeking to upgrade their certification to Level 5. Held at the Canyon River Instruction campus and the Arkansas River near Salida, CO, this ACA Instructor Upgrade is a pivotal step for instructors aiming to expand their credentials and expertise to teach in more advanced and challenging whitewater environments.
Key highlights of this course include:
Preparation to teach Class IV whitewater: Develop the skills, decision-making, and safety awareness required for more advanced whitewater conditions.
Hands-on training in high-demand environments: Gain experience navigating and instructing in complex river scenarios.
Expert mentorship: Work with seasoned instructors to refine your techniques and instructional methods.
Certification upgrade: Earn the Level 5 Advanced Kayak Instructor designation, opening doors to teach in more challenging and demanding settings.
By achieving the Level 5 Kayak Instructor designation, participants will:
Be qualified to teach in more complex and demanding conditions, broadening their instructional opportunities.
Enhance their professional development and credibility within the paddlesports community.
Be well-positioned to work with advanced groups and take on leadership roles in higher-risk environments.
This course is an invaluable opportunity for those committed to advancing their career and becoming leaders in paddlesports education.
RESCHEDULED TO NEXT SEASON DUE TO LOW WATER
Offered in 2027:
June 7 - 8
This comprehensive two-day course is specifically designed for current American Canoe Association (ACA) Level 4 Safety & Rescue Instructors who require certification renewal. The program offers an in-depth review and update of essential safety protocols, advanced rescue techniques, and emergency response procedures. Participants will engage in both classroom instruction and practical, hands-on training sessions to ensure they are fully prepared to meet evolving industry standards.
The course will be held at the Canyon River Instruction campus, with additional practical components conducted on the Arkansas River near Salida, Colorado. This unique setting provides an immersive learning environment that simulates real-world conditions, enhancing the overall training experience and ensuring participants leave with a renewed commitment to excellence in safety and rescue instruction.
Offered in 2026:
Cancelled due to low water. Check back with us over the winter for the 2027 schedule, or contact us directly to arrange a course date of your choosing for your group or organization.
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.
Kayak & Canoe
This one-day intermediate canoe skills workshop is designed to help paddlers progress into more challenging moving water and whitewater environments. Ideal for those who already have a solid foundation in basic canoeing skills, this workshop will focus on refining techniques and building confidence to navigate more dynamic river conditions effectively. Participants must have their own whitewater canoe and be ready for an engaging day of skill-building on the water.
Throughout the workshop, you’ll work on:
Refining technical maneuvers: Hone your ability to catch eddies, perform peel-outs, and execute precise ferries.
River running strategy: Learn to assess lines, read water more effectively, and plan for successful navigation.
Adapting to conditions: Practice responding to varying currents, obstacles, and river dynamics.
The specific river section chosen for the day will depend on participants' skill levels and current water conditions, ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.
This workshop is a perfect next step for paddlers looking to develop intermediate skills, gain confidence in whitewater settings, and deepen their understanding of river running strategies.
Offered in 2026:
June 3
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, or those upgrading to a higher level, 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.
This advanced kayak clinic is specifically designed for paddlers with prior experience who are eager to build on their existing skills and take their kayaking to the next level. Focusing on Class III-IV whitewater, this clinic emphasizes refining techniques, enhancing river safety knowledge, and improving water reading and scouting abilities. Participants will gain hands-on experience with challenging maneuvers, group safety strategies, and technical rescues.
What you’ll learn and practice during the clinic:
Boat-based rescues: Develop skills to effectively assist others in real-world scenarios.
Technical maneuvers: Master boofs, catch micro-eddies, and navigate technical lines with precision.
River safety: Build confidence in assessing and managing risks in Class III-IV whitewater.
Group dynamics: Learn to maintain group awareness, communicate effectively, and prioritize safety.
Water reading and scouting: Hone your ability to read rapids, identify hazards, and plan safe routes.
This clinic is ideal for paddlers who are reasonably comfortable in Class III rapids (such as Browns Canyon) and want to expand their technical and safety skills for more advanced river environments.
Prerequisites:
A basic roll in a hardshell kayak is required.
Participants should be prepared to bring their own kayak or arrange a rental from a kayak shop of their choice.
Whether your goal is to confidently navigate Class IV rapids, become a stronger team paddler, or elevate your technical skills, this clinic offers the tools, guidance, and hands-on experience to help you progress.
Offered in 2026:
June 12
Select date below:
Course Description
Do you or your crew want a private kayak or packraft course? Learn with Tommy on the Arkansas River on select Thursdays throughout the summer. From beginners to advanced boaters, grow technical skills, safety knowledge, and explore various sections of the river.
Included
Kayak or Packraft Instruction
Whitewater Kayaking Gear (kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD, skirt, insulation top; does not include river shoes)
Packrafting Gear (paddle, helmet, PFD, insulation top; does not include river shoes or packraft)
Duration
1-day to multiple days
Location
Arkansas River near Buena Vista, CO
Prerequisites
18-years of age or older or 16-years of age with adult accompaniment
Never to Advanced
For questions regarding this class and the instruction covered therein, please contact the instructor: tommy@whitewaterattainment.com
Offered in 2026:
TBD
Select date and group size below:
Do you want to learn how to spin, cartwheel or loop? Or maybe you just want to up your river running game by getting more comfortable surfing holes and waves and developing boat control.
Come spend a day with Aran Kilroy working on modern playboating techniques at one of the nation's best play spots! We'll meet you at your skill level, work on warm ups and foundational skills used by the worlds best paddlers and teach you some modern freestyle tricks along the way.
These are full days from 9AM to 4PM and are appropriate for beginner to intermediate freestyle kayakers. Come prepared for a workout! If you’re ready for some focused coaching for more advanced freestyle, ask us about arranging private instruction with Aran.
Prerequisites:
- Your own (or a rented) modern playboat
- A good roll and class 2 river skills
Location: Salida Whitewater Park
Offered in 2026:
TBD
Select date below:
Do you want to learn how to spin, cartwheel or loop? Or maybe you just want to up your river running game by getting more comfortable surfing holes and waves and developing boat control.
Come spend an evening with Aran Kilroy working on modern playboating techniques at one of the nation's best play spots! We'll meet you at your skill level, work on warm ups and foundational skills used by the worlds best paddlers and teach you some modern freestyle tricks along the way.
These are evenings only from 5PM to 7PM, perfect for after work. If you’re ready for some focused coaching for more advanced freestyle, ask us about arranging private instruction with Aran.
Prerequisites:
- Your own (or a rented) modern playboat
- A good roll and class 2 river skills
Location: Salida Whitewater Park
Offered in 2026:
TBD
Select date below:
Partner Courses & Events
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations occurring prior to 7 days from the clinic can be refunded in full, minus a 10% processing fee. For cancellations 7 days to 24 hours prior to scheduled clinic, clients will be responsible for 50% of the clinic fee. There will be no refunds for no-shows or cancellations less than 24 hours prior to scheduled event.
This five-day “Guide School” is designed specifically for private boaters who want to level up their skills. It's an immersive, hands-on experience, similar to a guide training program, but focused entirely on the needs of private boaters—no washing wetsuits or obsessing over how to cut a pineapple here!
During the course, you’ll:
Learn both rowing and paddle boating skills
Master how to read water and scout rapids for safety
Get comfortable with rigging and using various types of equipment
Build your foundation in river safety and rescue techniques
Walk away with the skills to have a fun, safe time on the river
Whether you’re new to boating or looking to improve your technique, this school will give you the tools to feel more confident and prepared out on the water.
Offered in 2026:
May 18 - 22