Millions of people enjoy kayaking in national parks and state parks, and with local outfitters and kayaking clubs.
 
There are different kinds of kayaking. Getting out on a lake is called recreational kayaking. You need a PFD (Personal Floatation Device also called a life jacket), a paddle, and a boat. It is easy for the whole family to try this kind of kayaking, and many state parks offer rentals where you can try paddling and explore coves and islands.
 
If you found that after an hour, you were bored on flat water, you might like to paddle down a river. Calm rivers with only a few obstacles are class 1 rivers. More exciting rivers require taking a kayaking class to learn how to navigate down safely.

Shorter boats, called whitewater boats, are used on rivers. They are designed to surf a standing wave and maneuver around obstacles. A beginning kayaker learns to roll his or her boat because it is safer to stay inside your boat on a fast moving river than to be out of your boat. Required gear includes a whitewater kayak, a paddle, a PFD, a spray skirt, and a good-fitting helmet.
 
You will discover what kind of kayaking you like as you gain skill. You may want a bigger challenge in a whitewater boat, or you might be happy paddling a lake or bay in a recreational kayak.

Once you complete your lesson and acquire your gear, the rivers are free! Used gear can be bought through the websites of both clubs. Get in shape with kayaking, meet new friends, and start a sport that can be learned at any age. Bring adventure and nature's beauty into your life!

Mary Bogin

Kayaking clubs to get you started

Lehigh Valley Kayak & Canoe Club
Beginner's classes start January 9 for eight consecutive Sunday nights until February 27, at Lafayette College in Easton. You many inquire about renting the gear needed. You will learn whitewater skills. They will also offer special classes for recreational paddlers to learn paddling skills and safety.
Lehigh Valley Kayak & Canoe Club, or email: LVKCC 

 
Lehigh Valley Whitewater
Pool sessions start December 4, until April, on Saturday nights at the Allentown Racquetball Club from 7-9 p.m. There will be classes in rolling for the first hour of the 2 hour sessions. The cost is $15 for entrance to the Racquetball Club, and $15 for the rolling class. You need your own gear, though you might be able to borrow club gear. This club is strictly a whitewater club.
Lehigh Valley Whitewater or email: whitewater4x4@aol.com

Membership is required for both clubs to participate in the pool sessions.