Kayaking Lessons

Embark on a kayaking adventure with expert instruction tailored to your skill level. Whether you're navigating serene open waters or tackling dynamic rivers, our lessons equip you with the techniques and confidence needed for an unforgettable experience on the water.
Skills You'll Learn
Trip planning, rigging, scouting, paddle techniques, and more.
Skill Levels Offered

Intro to River Kayaking

Paddling moving water can add complexity as well as excitement. Start your learning curve on the current with a stable inflatable. Forgiving and maneuverable, single or tandem inflatable kayaks are the best way to begin navigating obstacles on the river. These introductory lessons will build a strong base of confidence and competence, preparing you to cruise smoothly.

Private Lessons: $210 - $600

Skill Levels Offered: Intro

Location: Salt River

Max People: Six

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: Kayak and paddle will be provided.

noah teaching intro to kayaking

Open Water Kayaking

Enjoy the wide horizon line provided by a different breed of kayak. The unique dimensions of a touring kayak are great for paddling on large bodies of flatwater such as lakes, reservoirs, and the ocean. These lessons build your ability to maneuver a kayak through an open water crossing comfortably and focus on specialized techniques as you increase your skill level.

Private Lessons: $210 - $600

Skill Levels Offered: Intro, Intermediate

Location: Reservoir

Max People: Five

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: Guests must bring their own hardshell kayaks

Whitewater Kayaking

Discover the joys of going with the flow through the unparalleled maneuverability of a kayak. Whether you want to keep up with your friends or are looking for some time alone on the water, these introductory and intermediate-level lessons are great for building confidence going downriver. Taught using both inflatable and hardshell kayaks.

Private Lessons: $210 - $600

Skill Levels Offered: Intro, Intermediate

Location: Salt River

Max People: Five

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: Guests must bring their own hardshell kayak

What to Expect

Prepare for an exhilarating day on the water with Star Valley Raft & Paddle. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect from the moment we meet to the time we part ways. Get ready for an adventure that's as educational as it is unforgettable.

All necessary safety equipment will be provided.

Other gear and equipment are available for rent upon request.

Come wearing outdoor/athletic clothing (no cotton or jeans) and shoes with straps or laces that can get wet (no flip-flops).

Bring your own water and snacks.

PFDs are required and will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own.

Pick Up

The session starts being picked up with a warm welcome from Noah at our designated meeting point.

Gear & Orientation

Orientation and safety rundown, we gear up and head to the river.

Hands-on Instruction

On the water, you'll receive hands-on instruction tailored to your experience level, ensuring you learn and refine essential skills.

Drop Off

The day concludes back at our initial meeting spot, where we'll recap the day’s journey and discuss key learnings.

Power Hour: Focused Skill Training

Maximize your progress with our Power Hour, a private 1-hour training session dedicated to honing a specific paddlesport skill. Whether you're looking to refine your paddling techniques, improve navigation, or master safety procedures, this personalized session with our expert instructor will help you achieve your goals efficiently and effectively!

Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Clinic

Always wanted to try whitewater kayaking? Join us for our intro to whitewater kayaking clinic! Aimed at new paddlers or experienced recreational kayakers wanting to make the jump to closed-deck. We will spend 2 days learning safety, self-rescue, reading water, intro to rolling, and of course lots of paddling!

Dates:
June 14, 2025
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June 15, 2025

Teen Whitewater Kayak Camp

For the aspiring paddler in your family, the Teen Whitewater Kayak Camp is the perfect opportunity for 13-17 year olds to build their paddle skills in a safety-first environment. Over three days, campers will learn the ins and outs of their craft, dive into paddle techniques, and explore local waterways. Our goal is to connect campers to the fun and freedom of the riparian world so they can spend the rest of their summer building skills and having fun on the water.

Dates:
June 9, 2025
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June 11, 2025
June 16, 2025
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June 18, 2025

Kids Learn to Kayak Camp

Not sure how to fill their days after school lets out? Sign your kids up for an outdoor learning experience with new friends, new sights, and new skills! Learn to Kayak Camp is perfect for 1st-6th graders who are curious or excited about paddle sports and exploring their local waterways. Campers will spend three days learning how to play around water safely and building a base of kayak skills they can grow throughout the rest of the summer.

Dates:
June 23, 2025
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June 25, 2025
June 30, 2025
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July 2, 2025
July 7, 2025
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July 9, 2025

What our Paddlers Say

Noah is the kindest, most fun, and professional rafting and kayaking instructor anywhere around the Star Valley, Alpine, and Jackson, WY area. I had a magical time learning to kayak on the Salt River, will have to come back and do it again soon!
Jonathan Danforth
Noah is an amazing guide and instructor! He is personable and a hidden gem! I would unequivocally recommend choosing Star Valley Raft & Paddle
Harry Hedaya

FAQs

How long are lessons?

A standard half-day lesson is 4 hours (8:00 am -12:00 pm  or 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm). Time includes shuttles and gearing up/dressing down. Actual on-water time is about 3 hours.

What do I need to bring?
  • Come wearing outdoor/athletic clothing (no cotton or jeans) and shoes with straps or laces that can get wet (no flip-flops).
  • Bring your own water and snacks.
  • All necessary gear and safety equipment will be provided for each excursion free of charge.
  • Other gear and safety equipment available for rent upon request.
What are the experience levels of lessons?
  • Introductory: Develop water safety, equipment knowledge, and general paddling concepts.
  • Intermediate: I understand the basics but now am working on the skills.
  • Advanced: I have the skills and am interested in challenging them to build accuracy.
  • Custom: Have something specific you'd like to work on? Reach out and I can offer a custom lesson based on your goals.

Still have questions?

Have other questions or want to find out about custom lessons? Please reach out. We'd love to help.

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