This five day “guide school” is specifically designed for the private boater. It is intensive and immersive just like a guide training program, but focuses on skills that private boaters need, as opposed to creating employees like a traditional guide school. (Hint, we won’t make you wash wetsuits or insist there is only one way to cut a pineapple!) You’ll learn both rowing and paddle boating skills, how to read water and scout rapids, all about rigging & various types of equipment, basic river safety and rescue, and come away with a solid foundation for having a fun and safe time out on the river!
The class will run multiple sections of the Arkansas near Salida, building skills as we transition through progressively more challenging whitewater. Topics covered will include raft rigging, rowing skills, reading moving water, scouting, safety concerns, group management for downstream travel, hazard recognition and avoidance, dealing with a flipped raft, and many others. Particular emphasis will be given to the ergonomics of rowing and safety to help facilitate a lifetime of safe and effective river running.
Group sizes are kept small so that each raft holds typically three students and an instructor, allowing for maximum practice time for everyone. Students are encouraged to use their own personal gear such as lifejackets, helmets, and splash wear, but CRI is happy to provide any needed items. CRI will provide rafts and transportation to and from the river and our meeting location.
Please review the Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) and a basic gear list here.
Click here to find the Raft Sample Skills Course document from the American Canoe Association.
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