I Can Paddle!
|
Get the family out on the water this summer! Learn paddling skills from experienced guides while exploring some of Minnesota's most stunning lakes and rivers. These programs are designed especially for first-time paddlers, so no experience or equipment is necessary. Through firsthand experience you'll develop all of the skills necessary for a lifetime of paddling. Small group sizes mean you'll get the attention you need to become a paddling pro in no time. Canoes, paddles, and personal flotation devices are provided. Kids are welcome (see age requirements below). |
|
On the Lake: Perfect for beginners, these two-hour programs cover the basics On the River: These 4-5 hour programs cover the basics too, but go into more depth and provide a little more experience Learn more: Safety tips, what to pack, and whom to contact with questions |
Slide show of photos of families learning to paddle. This slideshow requires the latest version of
Adobe Flash Player All photos copyright Rolf Hagberg
|
Sign Up Now!
Preregistration is required for all I Can Paddle! programs. To reserve your spot, call us any day of the week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.: 866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008).
I Can Paddle! - On the Lake
These programs will help new paddlers develop the skills necessary for canoeing on Minnesota's lakes. You'll learn all the basics, from launching your canoe to paddling efficiently and planning a safe canoe outing.
- No experience required; all equipment provided
- Programs last two hours
- These programs are FREE
- Preregistration is required
- Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children under the age of 4 are required to provide their own lifejacket.
- A vehicle permit is required to enter all Minnesota state parks ($5/day or $25/year)
I Can Paddle! - On the River
Take your canoeing experience to the next level with one of these programs, which will take you along miles of the most scenic rivers in Minnesota. You'll learn the same skills covered in our lake canoeing programs, plus some more. Start by learning how to read the river, including river safety. Once on the water we'll cover a variety of paddling techniques and maneuvers. You'll also learn how to plan a river trip for your entire family.
- No experience required; all equipment provided
- Programs last 4-5 hours
- $25 per canoe
- Up to three people per canoe: two paddling and one sitting in the middle
- Preregistration is required
- Participants must be at least 8 years old. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- A vehicle permit is required to enter all Minnesota state parks ($5/day or $25/year)
Pre-Trip Information and Shuttling
Because of the length and remote nature of I Can Paddle! On the River programs, participants will be provided with a pre-trip packet including a packing list, program description, directions to water access, etc. These packets will be mailed out following your registration.
Participants will meet at a program's designated water access; from there, we will shuttle you to the put-in where you will begin the program and then paddle back to your cars at the water access.
Schedule
|
|
|
|
On the River |
On the Lake |
|
6/9 |
10a.m.-3p.m. |
X |
|
|
|
6/16 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
6/22 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
6/23 |
10a.m.-3p.m. |
X |
|
|
|
6/24 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
6/30 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
6/30 |
1-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
6/30 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
7/7 |
10a.m.-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
7/14 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
7/14 |
1-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
7/20 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
7/28 |
10a.m.-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
7/29 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
8/11 |
10a.m.-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
8/11 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
8/11 |
1-3p.m. |
X |
||
|
8/17 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
||
|
8/18 |
10a.m.-noon |
X |
Learn more
We've tried to put all the information you might need here on this page. If you still have questions about the I Can Paddle! program, please call 651-259-5577 between 8 AM and 4 PM, Monday through Friday, or email eric.pelto@state.mn.us.
Packing checklist 
: What to bring to an I Can Paddle! program
Safety tips : Best practices when you are on the water
This program is made possible by funds from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment.