GYPSUM KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Lesson 2: Fundamentals of Kayaking — Read the current in Gypsum’s sandstone canyons
A hands-on, half-day kayaking lesson on the Colorado River that teaches core maneuvers and river reading to students who have completed Lesson 1.
Lesson 2: Fundamentals of Kayaking — Read the current in Gypsum’s sandstone canyons.
Experience the thrill of learning to move with the river against a backdrop of sandstone canyon walls. This hands-on lesson on the Colorado River covers river hydrology, safety, and essential maneuvers—eddy turns, ferries and peel-outs—so that by day’s end participants can confidently paddle small Class I–II rapids on their own.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sandstone canyons and river reading
Learn to interpret river features and currents with the canyon walls of the Colorado River as your classroom—an essential foundation for safe on-water decision making.
Eddy turns, ferries and peel-outs
This lesson emphasizes practical boat control—eddy turns to exit current, ferries to travel across flows, and peel-outs to re-enter the main channel—skills you will practice repeatedly on the water.
Paddle small Class I–II rapids by day’s end
Through guided practice and safety instruction, participants will work up to running small rapids and build the competence to paddle similar water independently.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day moves from onshore orientation into purposeful on-water drills and guided runs. You’ll learn the theory of hydrology, fit and test equipment, practice maneuvers in eddies and across currents, break for a riverside lunch, and finish with swimming and boat-recovery exercises before a wrap-up in the mid-afternoon.
THE RIVER
Sandstone canyons and river reading
Learn to interpret river features and currents with the canyon walls of the Colorado River as your classroom—an essential foundation for safe on-water decision making.
THE SKILLS
Eddy turns, ferries and peel-outs
This lesson emphasizes practical boat control—eddy turns to exit current, ferries to travel across flows, and peel-outs to re-enter the main channel—skills you will practice repeatedly on the water.
THE PROGRESSION
Paddle small Class I–II rapids by day’s end
Through guided practice and safety instruction, participants will work up to running small rapids and build the competence to paddle similar water independently.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this lesson suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Swimsuit, towel, plenty of water, waterproof sunscreen, sunglasses with retention strap (optional), lunch and snacks that do not require a cooler, and warm dry clothing for after the water.
All kayaking gear is included: boat, paddle, skirt, PFD, wetsuit jackets and booties. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if preferred.
Optional items include fleece or synthetic layers to wear under a wetsuit, kayak nose plugs with a strap, sun hat and sunglasses with a retention strap. Instructors will carry lunches in waterproof bags that fit in the back of the boats—please pack non-cooler lunches and avoid bringing bananas or tuna.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages can participate?
Participants must be age 12 or older.
Is there a prerequisite?
Yes—completion of Lesson 1 is required before taking Lesson 2.
What gear is included?
The lesson includes a boat, paddle, skirt, PFD, wetsuit jackets and booties; you may bring your own gear if you prefer.
Do lessons run in bad weather?
Lessons run rain or shine; check the recommended gear list to be prepared for conditions.
What should I pack for lunch?
Pack a lunch that does not require a cooler; instructors will carry lunches in waterproof bags in the boats. Please do not bring bananas or tuna.
How long is the lesson and when does it start?
The lesson starts at 9:00 am and typically runs until around 3:00 pm.
How much does the lesson cost?
The rate is $200 per person for participants aged 12 and up.