Learn how to whitewater kayak with Outdoor Chattanooga’s Rapid Learning Whitewater Program!! This dynamic program provides formal and equipped kayak instruction for beginner and seasoned kayakers to learn and develop the skills necessary to safely and confidently paddle whitewater streams. 

Start the program any time of year by attending an introduction to kayak skills class to learn essential skills and safe paddling techniques in the calm waters of the lake or pool. Instruction is provided in a group setting with an emphasis on building skills according to the pace of each individual and their unique paddling goals. 

Intro to kayak skills classes are offered regularly throughout the year and can be joined anytime; no prior experience, reservations, or equipment required to participate. We provide it all and your first visit is free!  Appropriate for ages 8+. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Outdoor Kayak Skills Classes are held every Wednesday, May through September at Chester Frost County Park, at the far end of the swimming beach by the first boat ramp. No class July 3.
Choose a session:
Session 1 | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Session 2 | 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

From your first Rapid Learning skills development class to your first Class III run, Outdoor Chattanooga’s certified instructors will be right beside you offering instruction and encouragement to help you meet your kayaking goals. This dynamic program aims to get paddlers safely and comfortably paddling up to class III whitewater, and it takes time to learn these skills. Our instructors have years of experience, on a variety of rivers worldwide and are nationally certified. Kayakers are eligible to attend instructional river trips once they have demonstrated essential skills such as confident wet exits, basic self-rescue, and effective maneuvering of the whitewater kayak during an Intro Class. For more information about the program including how to become a Rapid Learning Member or register for an instructional river trip call 423-643-6888 or visit: https://outdoorchattanooga.com/programs/rapid-learning/