Level 3/4: Swiftwater Rescue
ACA Level 3/4 SWR; certifying course
Packrafts and whitewater kayaks permitted; rafts and canoes permitted on case-by-case basis
This swiftwater rescue course is a great fit for anyone looking to up their rescue game! Students will have the opportunity to leave with an ACA certification upon successful execution of all skills, which makes it a great fit for casual paddlers, whitewater enthusiasts, guides, and agency personnel alike. Because you’ll be on the river for both days, come prepared with plenty of warm layers, water, and snacks to stay comfortable and energized. The course is led by Sam Stone, a class V kayaker with years of experience teaching and coaching on advanced whitewater. You’ll benefit from expert instruction and individualized feedback designed to help you progress at your own pace. Like all of our courses, this course is taught in a challenge-by-choice environment, so you’re always in control of how far you push yourself. Location is water level-dependent, and Sam will choose and communicate the best venue based on current conditions to ensure a safe and effective learning environment. Note: these courses are open to both whitewater packrafters and kayakers. If kayaking, you must have your roll down ~80% of the time or be proficient in wet exists. Rafts and canoes permitted on case-by-case basis.
Skill development
- River features and hazards
- Throw bag skills
- Mechanical advantage systems
- Rescue strategy + implementation
- On-water communication
- Wading skills
- Knots (don't just tie lots!)
- Swiftwater swimming skills
- Live bait rescues
- Craft-based rescues
- Practice scenarios
- Entrapment response
- Group dynamics and safety considerations
Location
- Chatanika River or Chena River
- Venue subject to change depending on water levels; you will be notified of a change ahead of time via email
Class size
- 5-10 students
- This course requires a minimum of 5 students. You will be notified in advance if enrollment does not meet this requirement.
- 10:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Prerequisites
- Entry-level Swiftwater Rescue Course or equivalent experience*
- *If you have not taken a Swiftwater course, please email us to get preapproval for this course prior to enrolling
- Confidence paddling on class II water, including catching eddies
- Packrafters: ability to self-rescue and conduct partner rescues
- Whitewater kayakers: ability to roll 80% of the time and/or proficient in wet exits
- Familiarity with various ways of communicating on the water
- Ability to swim, hold breath and keep head above water in rapids water/rapids
- Prior practice with throw bags
- Ability to safely walk on rocky/uneven surfaces and hike short distances in a drysuit (<0.5 mi, flat ground)
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.