5-Day Intermediate Kayak Program: Master the Basics and Build Confidence

In our 5-day intermediate whitewater kayak program, you’ll refine the foundational skills needed to confidently paddle through Class II-III rapids on the Ottawa River. This program is designed to help paddlers master stroke techniques, improve timing, and build proficiency in key whitewater skills. Whether you’re refining your boat control or learning advanced river maneuvers, this course will give you the skills and confidence needed to navigate the mighty Ottawa River with ease.

For those serious about advancing their skills, we highly recommend our 5-day program. This extended course offers more time on the water, allowing paddlers to fine-tune their skills and immerse themselves fully in the Ottawa River’s best features. Whether you’re learning to cartwheel, loop, or simply improve your overall paddling, the 5-day intermediate program is the ideal choice.

Prerequisite: Build on Your Existing Skills

To ensure your success in the Intermediate Whitewater Kayak Program, participants must have a flat-water roll and exhibit proficient boat control in Class II-III rapids. Don’t worry—our instructors will guide you through the process of “bombproofing” your combat roll, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the river challenges ahead.

Key Skills You’ll Learn and Master:

In this course, you’ll develop critical techniques and strategies to help you tackle more challenging rapids and enhance your overall paddling ability. Here’s an overview of the essential skills you’ll work on:

• Scouting & Dissecting Class III Rapids: Learn how to read and analyze rapids for the best lines, giving you a tactical advantage when navigating challenging water.
• Stroke Choice, Timing, and Compound Stroke Refinement: Perfect your stroke technique, including timing and compound strokes, to maximize efficiency in dynamic water.
• Ferrying, Eddy Turns & Peel Outs: Gain confidence in navigating dynamic water through techniques like ferrying, eddy turns, and peel outs.
• Carving and Redirecting Momentum: Master the art of carving and redirecting your momentum in and out of eddies to maintain control and power.
• Using River Features to Navigate Complex Rapids: Learn how to use river features such as waves, holes, and rocks to help you navigate complex rapids.
• Surfing Waves, Holes, and Spinning: Improve your skills in surfing and spinning on whitewater features, an essential part of advanced whitewater kayaking.
• Boofing and Using Rocks: Master boofing and learn to use rocks and other river features to navigate through powerful water.
• River Safety Techniques: Understand the importance of river safety, including self-rescue, assisted rescue techniques, and effective communication.
• Fine-tuning Bracing and Rolling: Continue to develop your bracing and rolling techniques to improve stability and confidence on the river.

Daily Structure: Learning with Expert Instructors

Each day begins with a review of the basics and a focus on whitewater kayak strokes and concepts. You’ll have the opportunity to practice various rolls and techniques with your Ottawa Kayak School instructor, who will provide expert guidance to ensure your progression. Throughout the course, you’ll receive personalized feedback to help you refine your skills and tackle the river with confidence.

Teen-Friendly Programs

Our 2-day, 3-day, and 5-day programs are open to teens when accompanied by an adult (18+). This is a fantastic opportunity for young paddlers to develop their skills in a supportive, fun, and safe environment while exploring the thrilling world of whitewater kayaking.

Local Residents: Special Locals Rate Available

If you live in the Ottawa River Valley or don’t need overnight accommodations or meals, take advantage of our local rate! This option allows you to attend the course without the added cost of accommodation, while still benefiting from expert instruction and on-water practice. Arrive at 8 am each day, and enjoy a full day of paddling, typically finishing by 4:30 pm.