Common Questions and Answers
Q: What's the best way to get started paddling a white water or flat water kayak?
A: The Best way to get started is in a Fun and Friendly Environment either in a flatwater kayak or a whitewater kayak is to take a lesson in the lake and river with a certified kayak instructor who can teach you how to paddle efficiently and effectively to help prevent injury and fatigue.
Q: Why is instruction important?
A: Paddling with a certified kayak teacher reduces time and stress on the body when learning how to maneuver a flat water or whitewater kayak. Correct use of the paddle in the water can make your experience in a kayak so much more fun and enjoyable.
Q: Why are classes with BackCountry Kayak School unique?
A: BackCountry Kayak School is operated by Robert Grant who has over 15 years of experience in kayaking. Robert is also Certified by the ACA (American Canoe Association) as a White Water Instuctor. Robert continues to learn and teach in the sport of kayaking. He has the teaching experience and the experience of his staff combines many years of kayak instruction in a fun, exciting manor.
Q: Where are the lessons held?
A: In late spring classes are held in the pool and then out on the North Platte River. During the summer and early fall, classes are held on the North Platte River at the Casper White Water Park.
Q: Where are flat water tours held?
A: Flat water tours are held on the North Platte River above the Caper White Water Park.
Q: What sort of gear will I need and what will be provided?
A: BackCountry Kayak School will provide modern kayaks and equipment including a life jacket(PFD) and paddle for lake tours and a helmet and spray skirt for whitewater. Also, BackCountry Kayak School provides paddling jackets on those windy chilly days. What you need to bring are;
A towel
Sun screen. Minimum 15 block.
Swimsuit or swim shorts.
A ball cap keeps the sun out of your eyes.
A pair of water shoes, which you can get at Walmart or other department stores. Tevas are sometimes too big to fit in the boats, (great for around camp though!) and old tennis shoes are too big as well.
Don't forget your sunglasses!
Q: What are some pitfalls to avoid or misconceptions that beginners have?
A: People wanting to try whitewater or flatwater kayaking may feel that all schools are the same. After all, it's only kayaking! Not so, many instructors have just started teaching limiting their bag of tricks to help you successfully transition into the sport. Also, some instructors call themselves teachers and haven't been through any formal training. They have just learned from friends. Watch out for this type of instruction. It can lead to bad habits and possibly an injury making the sport seem scary. BackCountry Kayak SChool offers a special touch to help you feel comfortable and have fun, too!
Q: Can anyone learn to kayak?
A: Yes of course! With a few tips on paddle strokes, anyone can have a great time on water. So whether it be a mellow flat water paddle of a more exciting whitewater lesson, BackCountry Kayak School has the class for you.
Q:How long will it take to learn how to roll?
A:As long as it takes. I have taught people to roll in ten minutes and some have taken a few sessions to learn. As long as the end result is the same. There is no time limit.
Q: How strong do I have to be?
A: A little bit of strength goes a long way. Kayaking and rolling is mostly Finesse, Technique and Knowledge. Just bring a desire to learn and the rest will come.
Q:Am i trapped in a Kayak once I go upside down?
A:No. Getting out of a kayak is as easy as sliding off a pair of sweat pants, in fact it involves about the same motion.
Q: Are there good places to stay in the area?
A: There are plenty of Motels in Casper to choose from and Camping on Casper Mountain at Beartrap Meadow.
A: The Best way to get started is in a Fun and Friendly Environment either in a flatwater kayak or a whitewater kayak is to take a lesson in the lake and river with a certified kayak instructor who can teach you how to paddle efficiently and effectively to help prevent injury and fatigue.
Q: Why is instruction important?
A: Paddling with a certified kayak teacher reduces time and stress on the body when learning how to maneuver a flat water or whitewater kayak. Correct use of the paddle in the water can make your experience in a kayak so much more fun and enjoyable.
Q: Why are classes with BackCountry Kayak School unique?
A: BackCountry Kayak School is operated by Robert Grant who has over 15 years of experience in kayaking. Robert is also Certified by the ACA (American Canoe Association) as a White Water Instuctor. Robert continues to learn and teach in the sport of kayaking. He has the teaching experience and the experience of his staff combines many years of kayak instruction in a fun, exciting manor.
Q: Where are the lessons held?
A: In late spring classes are held in the pool and then out on the North Platte River. During the summer and early fall, classes are held on the North Platte River at the Casper White Water Park.
Q: Where are flat water tours held?
A: Flat water tours are held on the North Platte River above the Caper White Water Park.
Q: What sort of gear will I need and what will be provided?
A: BackCountry Kayak School will provide modern kayaks and equipment including a life jacket(PFD) and paddle for lake tours and a helmet and spray skirt for whitewater. Also, BackCountry Kayak School provides paddling jackets on those windy chilly days. What you need to bring are;
A towel
Sun screen. Minimum 15 block.
Swimsuit or swim shorts.
A ball cap keeps the sun out of your eyes.
A pair of water shoes, which you can get at Walmart or other department stores. Tevas are sometimes too big to fit in the boats, (great for around camp though!) and old tennis shoes are too big as well.
Don't forget your sunglasses!
Q: What are some pitfalls to avoid or misconceptions that beginners have?
A: People wanting to try whitewater or flatwater kayaking may feel that all schools are the same. After all, it's only kayaking! Not so, many instructors have just started teaching limiting their bag of tricks to help you successfully transition into the sport. Also, some instructors call themselves teachers and haven't been through any formal training. They have just learned from friends. Watch out for this type of instruction. It can lead to bad habits and possibly an injury making the sport seem scary. BackCountry Kayak SChool offers a special touch to help you feel comfortable and have fun, too!
Q: Can anyone learn to kayak?
A: Yes of course! With a few tips on paddle strokes, anyone can have a great time on water. So whether it be a mellow flat water paddle of a more exciting whitewater lesson, BackCountry Kayak School has the class for you.
Q:How long will it take to learn how to roll?
A:As long as it takes. I have taught people to roll in ten minutes and some have taken a few sessions to learn. As long as the end result is the same. There is no time limit.
Q: How strong do I have to be?
A: A little bit of strength goes a long way. Kayaking and rolling is mostly Finesse, Technique and Knowledge. Just bring a desire to learn and the rest will come.
Q:Am i trapped in a Kayak once I go upside down?
A:No. Getting out of a kayak is as easy as sliding off a pair of sweat pants, in fact it involves about the same motion.
Q: Are there good places to stay in the area?
A: There are plenty of Motels in Casper to choose from and Camping on Casper Mountain at Beartrap Meadow.
