Whitewater Canoe: Class 3/4

French Broad Section 9 or similar

FROM:$175.00

Months of Operation:

March-November

Duration:

8 Hrs

Begins:

9:00 AM

Age Requirements:

Age 10+
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Overview & Highlights

This class is for you if: You are a class 3 or greater canoeist and want to take your paddling to the next level.

Learn to paddle smarter and more confidently as you spend the day on one of the area’s class 3 rivers working on improving fundamentals, strokes, boat control and river running technique. Your instructor will start where you are in your paddling progression and build from there so that you can safely achieve your goals and more confidently enjoy your time on the river. Primary rivers include the Nolichucky and French Broad Section 9, both excellent venues for open boaters who want to improve their comfort and proficiency on class 3 rivers. River selection will depend on water-levels, abilities and interests of the group.

For experienced whitewater canoeists with class 3 or greater skills and a fairly reliable roll. All instructors carry professional certification through the ACA.

Want more than one day? Consider our 3-day Whitewater Canoe Immersive or private instruction.
Highlights:
  • Professional, fun whitewater canoe instruction by certified instructors
  • Full review of fundamentals, strokes and river moves
  • Further development of fundamentals and skills in a supportive and appropriately challenging environment
  • Paddle trip on one of the region's beautiful class 3 rivers, including the Nolichucky and French Broad Section 9
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French Broad River Section 9 - Stackhouse Access

French Broad River - Stackhouse Access

Additional Information

  • What to Expect

    • Paddling fundamentals review
    • Paddling strokes review including turning, power and bracing strokes
    • River maneuvers deep dive including peel outs, eddy turns and ferries - expect to spend most of the day really digging into these techniques and practicing them in a variety of situations
    • River reading and hydrology and then applying your understanding of these to your paddling
    • Accident prevention and safety

  • Prerequisites

    • Class 3 or greater whitewater canoe skills
    • Very good overall health and fitness
    • Reliable roll
    • Be able to wet exit and swim to shore in current in the event of a capsize
    • Participants must be willing to wear a PFD (personal flotation device) and helmet while on the water

  • Includes

    • Instruction/guiding
    • Shuttle transportation

  • What to Bring

    Whitewater canoe with float bags, paddle, PFD, helmet, drinking water, closed-toe water shoes (open-toed footwear, sandals not permitted), throw rope, suitable clothing for wear on the water (wicking, non-cotton base layers, paddle tops or drysuits as appropriate), lunch in drybag, towel, sunscreen.

  • Meeting Location

    We will meet at Stackhouse River Access, directions here.

  • Additional Information

    Food and lodging are the responsibility of participants. If class is held on the French Broad, there are a number of lodging options in Hot Springs, NC.

    Lodging is also available near our outpost in Erwin, TN (45-60 mins from FB9) at Uncle Johnny's in Erwin, Woodsmoke Campground in Unicoi, Rock Creek Campground in Erwin (open May-Oct), Grand View Ranch Campground in Unicoi, Blackberry Blossom Campground in Unicoi, Nature's Inn Hostel and Cabins in Flag Pond, TN and a Super 8 in Erwin.

  • Testimonials

    "My lesson by far exceeded any expectations I had. My instructor not only helped me to notice and correct some bad habits I had formed over the years but her calm, serene attitude influenced me to overcome my fears. Plus, it was incredibly fun to work with her. I would recommend NOLI to anyone wanting to learn to paddle whitewater or wishing to improve their skills. "

    ~ Linda D.

Policies & Agreements

  • Terms and conditions

    I certify that all registrants meet course prerequisites as defined in the course description, meet the minimum age requirements and do not have any medical conditions or limitations that would prevent their ability to safely participate in the activity.

  • Cancellation policy

    NOLI activities go rain or shine. If you cancel or decrease the number of participants in your party the following applies:

    Cancellations 30 or more days prior to your activity will receive a full refund.
    Cancellations 14-29 days prior to the activity date will receive a full reservation booking voucher.
    Cancellations 0-13 days prior to the activity date are not extended a refund or voucher.
    No Shows are not extended a refund or voucher.

Upcoming Dates & Availability

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Grab your spot today!

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