Instructions on the Basics in Canoe School

Safety is an obvious question and concern when recreating around water. While none of us, or any legitimate outfitter, will guarantee a safe vacation trip, we can tell you that statistical data shows outfitted river trips have lower accident rates than most sports. Our job is to help identify risks and mitigate those risks for an experience you would be hesitant to try on your own. As professionals our members try to balance safety with fun when operating in a non-controllable environment.

The reason outfitted river businesses with Adventure Gateway have excellent safety records is that staff (from guides to instructors to reservationists) is trained to get you outfitted properly. Our guides are trained in first aid and in dealing with accidents in isolated areas. We use Coast Guard approved life jackets and boats specifically designed for the type of rivers we run.

While proper clothing can be a safety issue, it is also a comfort issue. For all trips, proper footwear is essential. River sandals with snug straps (not flip flops) or tennis shoes are very important. Remember to bring two sets of footwear: one pair that will get wet for the river trip and one pair that stays dry for after the trip. This is generally true for all clothing. Cotton clothing is not the preferred fabric while on a river trip. Any of the more modern fabrics that dry quickly such as polypropylene or nylon are preferred. Women find a pair of shorts over their bathing suit helps with comfort while sitting in the rafts.

Prior to any trip, make sure you have made a checklist of what to bring. Your Adventure Gateway outfitter can send a list of recommended and required rafting gear. If you do not have a specific piece of equipment, be sure to ask if it can be rented or purchased from the outfitter, either in advance or on the day of your trip.

While space is somewhat limited on a river trip, it is not like a backpacking trip. You can bring some comforts from home - we certainly do. The river helps carry the weight, so you will be pleasantly surprised by what we can bring.

Good rafting equipment equipment can especially help you enjoy an extended trip. Make sure your tent and sleeping bag are appropriate for the specific trip you are on. Good rain gear may or may not be an issue depending on the river or time of the year. Your best bet is to talk with the reservation staff and make sure you have the right gear prior to your trip.

Another question that comes up is – "Am I physically able to run a specific river?" This, of course, depends on you, the river and the time of year. A river that is high and cold is generally a little wilder than the same river at more moderate levels during the warmer months. Again, be sure to talk with the reservation staff at the vacation destination of your choice. The more information we know, the better able we are to match the specific river trip to your needs.