kayaking in yellowknife

Beginner Kayaking

Certification

Basic Kayak Skills (Paddle Canada)

What's covered?

  • Lifting and Carrying a Kayak
  • Launching and Landing a Kayak
  • Forward Stroke
  • Stopping
  • Reverse Stroke
  • Turning a Kayak (Sweep Strokes and Pivots)
  • Moving a Kayak Sideways
  • Kayak Parts and Outfitting
  • Paddling and Safety Equipment
  • Paddling Hazards and how to avoid them

Call us at 1 (867) 445-4512 for more information about our paddling courses!

Cost: $250 + gst per person

Learn to kayak in Yellowknife!

Join us for our foundational “kayaking 101” course that introduces proper technique for the core paddle strokes you’ll need to control your kayak on Yellowknife’s local lakes. This course is the starting point in our kayak skills progression.

The skills and knowledge gained on this 1-day course are designed for novice paddlers who are new to kayaking. This course is a great fit for the causal kayaker looking to learn beginner skills, become a safer paddler, and have more confidence when exploring on day trips.

This course covers the essentials for kayakers of all ages and skills levels to become more competent kayakers on calm lake environments when paddling close to shore.

Our experienced kayak instructors look forward to improving your basic skills like maneuvering and balancing in a kayak, no matter where you are starting from.

If you are seeking a more comprehensive kayak course geared towards more ambitious, multi-day expedition-paddlers our 2-day Level 1 Skills Kayaking Course is a step up to the next level.

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I have taken several courses through Jackpine Paddle over the last 5 years - intro to lake canoe, intro to whitewater canoe, intro to sea kayaking, and the canoe tripping.

The instructors are top notch. All of them are knowledgeable, patient, fun, and supportive. In 2021 my friend and I went on an epic 8-day paddle on the remote North Arm route through wind and waves. Thank you so much Dan and instructors at Jackpine Paddle for giving me the skills and confidence to pursue my goals on the water. 100% would recommend.

Jenn B | Yellowknife

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Available Dates

June 1

Full Day

June 21

Full Day

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Included?

All paddling equipment: kayak, lifejacket, paddle, bailer, throw bag included. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. It is recommended that participants have thermal protection (drysuit or wetsuit) for comfort on this course. Drysuit rentals are available for $45 CAD + GST per participant.

What is your Booking and Cancellation Policy?

If you are unable to attend and you can send someone in your place, we can transfer your spot free of charge.

Cancellations with more than 30 days notice, 75% refund.

Cancellations with less than 21 days notice, 50% refund.

Cancellations within 14 days of the course cannot be refunded.

Please Note

The minimum age for unaccompanied minors in our courses is 16. Participants under the age of 16 are welcome to register if joined by a parent or guardian. Participants must be able to swim 50 m with a lifejacket but no previous paddling experience is required.

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