Whitewater Packrafting Level 1

This course is designed to be the perfect introduction to whitewater packrafting. Perfect for brand new pack rafters, or people with limited paddling skills in any discipline. Participants will be given the opportunity to experience whitewater paddling with the care and instruction of experienced river guides. The course consists of 3 days of skills training at Palmer Rapids on the Madawaska River. Course focus includes:

• Packrafting basics, boat features, setup and care

• Flatwater paddling skills

• Whitewater paddling skills

• Basics of river safety, gear, and communication

• River reading and morphology

• Scouting rapids

• Self rescue, assisted rescues

Participants will spend the days learning the necessary skills and techniques to navigate rapids safely and effectively, while developing self awareness and judgement in the whitewater environment. Training will take place each day from 9am to 5pm with breaks for lunch and snacks. In the evenings guests can relax and share a delicious meal around a campfire.

Course details:

Where: Palmer Rapids on the Madawaska River
Duration of course: 3 days, 2 nights
Maximum Participants: 8
Skill Level: Beginner
Pace/Intensity: Moderate
Guide Ratio: 1:4
Cost: $785
Course Dates: June 21st - June 23rd, 2024

What’s Included:

• All meals from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 3.

• All necessary packraft and river gear: packraft, life jacket, helmet, paddle, river safety kit, dry bags for packing your gear.

• Professional guides trained in river travel, wilderness safety, and first aid.

• On water instruction.

• Group camping equipment: stoves and cookware, tents, thermarests, camp shower, hand wash station, camp chairs, rain shelters, emergency communication devices.

• Camping fees at Paddler Co-op.

What’s Not Included:

• Transportation to/from the course locations.

• Personal items and clothing, sleeping bags.

• Alcoholic beverages.