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Jul 12

Learn to Paddle Your Willamette Water Trail: Paddling 101 (Flatwater)

Ready to dip your paddle into something new? Join Willamette Riverkeeper for a fun, hands-on paddling class designed for beginners and those looking to refresh their basic canoe and kayak skills!

Alton Baker Park Canoe Canal
200 Day Island Rd., Eugene, OR 97401
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Virtual location

You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.

Jul 12, 2025 10:00am - Jul 12, 2025 03:00pm

Free

Ready to dip your paddle into something new? Join Willamette Riverkeeper for a fun, hands-on paddling class designed for beginners and those looking to refresh their canoe skills! This 5-hour class combines land-based instruction with a guided paddle along Eugene’s scenic Alton Baker Canoe Canal, led by WRK’s own Michelle Emmons, a former guide and instructor with REI and the River House Outdoor Program.


💡 You’ll Learn:

✅ Canoe safety & equipment basics

✅ Efficient paddling techniques (forward, reverse, sweep, draw & pry strokes)

✅ How to safely enter and exit your boat

✅ How to steer & maneuver in calm water

✅ River etiquette, safety, and Leave No Trace principles


All paddling gear is provided, including canoes, paddles, and PFDs. Dress for the weather and bring your lunch, water, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure!


🧒 Ages 12+ welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)

🌊 No paddling experience necessary

📋 Pre-registration required – don’t wait!


Let’s build confidence, connection, and community on the Willamette Water Trail.

Willamette Riverkeeper thanks our partners at the Oregon State Marine Board, who generously funded this program through the Waterway Access Grant Program.