LEVEL 2: INTRO TO PACKRAFTING
RIVERS
Packrafts and inflatable kayaks permittede
These courses are perfect for anyone ready to dip their toes into the world of packrafting on rivers, and come out the other side feeling confident, capable, and excited to keep paddling! Over two days, you'll build the skills that make for safer, smarter, and more enjoyable time on the water. Day one begins on flat water, where you’ll learn essential paddling strokes and get hands-on with rescue techniques in a supportive, low-pressure environment. On day two, we take those skills onto moving water, practicing real-world scenarios that bring everything together. Throughout the course, you’ll receive personalized feedback to help you progress at your own pace. We teach within a challenge-by-choice environment, meaning you’re always in control of how far you push yourself. Questions are not just welcomed, they’re encouraged. The more curious you are, the more you’ll gain! By the end of the course, you won’t just be a stronger paddler -- you’ll be a more reliable river partner. You’ll understand how to move efficiently, communicate clearly, and contribute to a safe, supportive group dynamic on the water.
Skill development
- Gear selection & maintenance
- Fitting your boat to your body
- Paddle strokes & boat control
- Safety & rescue skills
- River feature identification and navigation
- Basics of eddy turns and ferrying
- Group awareness and river communication
- Basic scenarios integrating skills you learn throughout class
Location
- Local Fairbanks lake & Chatanika River -or- Otto Lake (Healy, AK) & Nenana River
- Venue subject water levels; you will be notified of location ahead of time via email
Class size
- 3-10 students
- The course requires a minimum of four students. You will be notified in advance if enrollment does not meet this requirement.
- 5:1 or 10:2 student-to-instructor ratio
Prerequisites
- Ability to reasonably control the boat you will be bringing (i.e. paddle to a safe location on the side of a river successfully)
- Ability to swim
- Ability to self- or partner-rescue
- Note: if you choose to bring a boat with really wide tubes (e.g. Forager), it will be significantly more difficult to get back into your boat
- Ability to walk on rocky surfaces
Please review the following links prior to enrolling in a course:
Students are responsible for their own gear rentals. See 'gear requirements' link below for local rental shops.