Flatwater Packrafting Course: experience trip - Little Kachess Lake

new SKILLS PRACTICE

HIKING WHILE CARRYING A PACKRAFT AND OVERNIGHT GEAR

Hike several miles on trail to a launch.  This is why the packraft was invented. This is what makes packrafting unique and the key to extending routes into the remote backcountry - the ability to hike, camp, and paddle across bodies of water. 

TURNING OVER A LOADED BOAT IN DEEP WATER 

In open water that is choppy and windy it is easy to get flipped over while an unfortunate distance has been created to your nearest team mate. It is imperative to practice holding onto one's boat when capsizing and to be able to right one's boat by oneself while it is heavily laden. 

topping off a boat with air in deep water unassisted

Paddlers often can get separated long distances in open water, particularly in windy and choppy conditions. Boats often develop a small leak. If a boat has a slow leak this is imperative that you can add air while securely seated in your boat. 

drafting in open water

In open water in windy and choppy conditions often there are large distances needed to cover. Paddling as a group and efficiently using the group's energy is critical. Much like breaking trail in deep snow, the lead burns the most calories and we take turns in the lead and rest while drafting.

lining boats

We will practice lining one's boat along a shore or over a mud flat.  Lining is needed in certain situations where paddling is not possible and a loaded boat is too heavy to carry for any distance. 

REFRESHER OF paddling and rescue skills

We encourage everyone to practice the basic paddling strokes: an efficient forward stroke, back paddle, draw, and scull, as well as the basic rescue roles: self rescue in deep water, partner assist, paddling with two paddles, boat bumping,  and towing a tired swimmer. 

TBD.  Location may change based on conditions.