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.

Length: 4-hour, half day lesson

Skill Levels Offered: Intro

Location: Salt River

Max People: Five

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: Kayak and paddle will be provided. All safety gear is also included.

Price: $295 for one person, +$100 per additional person (up to 5 people)

noah teaching intro to kayaking
Noah explaining to a kayaker how to do a barrel roll

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.

Price: $295 for one person, +$100 per additional person (up to 5 people)

Skill Levels Offered: Intro, Intermediate

Location: Reservoir

Max People: Five

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: We provide the hardshell kayak and all safety gear.

Young kayaker paddling through whitewater on the Salt River with mountains behind.

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.

Length: 4-hour, half day lesson

Skill Levels Offered: Intro, Intermediate

Location: Salt River

Max People: Five

Minimum Age: Six

Gear: We provide the hardshell kayak and all safety gear.

Price: $295 for one person, +$100 per additional person (up to 5 people)

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.

Meet At Our Office

Your lesson starts with a warm welcome from Noah at our office.

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

We head back to our office together to recap the day and talk through what to practice next.

What our Kayakers 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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