Kayaking instruction

What type of experience are you looking for? Our kayaking guides are all certified instructors and teach classes that emphasize safety, efficiency and technique. CBST offers half and full day sessions, as well as our popular multi-day workshops. You know, it is important to take a class at your proper skill level. Signing up for the wrong class could make the experience unpleasant for everyone. We want to advance your boating skills with just the right amount of challenge. Check out what we offer and see if something we offer is perfect for you. Got questions? Give us a call at (970) 668-8900 so that we can help you pick the right plan.

The fees listed below INCLUDE all the necessary clothing and equipment rentals. Discounts are available for individuals that provide their own equipment. All personal equipment must be approved by our staff.

One Day Workshops
1/2-Day Group Lessons

The 1/2-Day Intro is perfect for the paddler who just wants a quick introduction to the sport. This course is the first half of the 1 day intro and takes place entirely on a lake. You will receive instruction on wet exits, paddle strokes, boat tilt, and bracing. This course is offered Monday through Saturday from May 4th through September 30th.

1-Day Intro Workshop

The 1-Day Intro is designed for the paddler who just wants a sample of this exciting sport. This course follows the same outline as our 2-Day intro workshop, however, at a greatly accelerated rate. (See two day workshop description). This course is offered Monday through Saturday from May 4th through September 30th.

1-Day Breakthrough Workshop

The 1-Day Breakthrough also follows the same itinerary as the 2-Day workshop. This course designed for paddlers that have completed a Summit Kayak introductory course or equivalent. It will help the beginner acquire the skills necessary to move to that next level. Lunch is not included, please bring a sack lunch and beverage on one day workshops. 1-Day Breakthrough courses are offered every Wednesday and Sunday from May 12th through September.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are offered to the paddler who wants more personal attention. Summit Kayak will design a personal itinerary to meet any of your needs. Add a friend or two and save money. Private Lessons are offered 7 days a week May through September.

Playboat Clinics

Playboat clinics are designed to open the door to the world of playboating. It is for the intermediate/advanced paddler with a solid roll. All clinics will be focused on developing the techniques and skills needed to control your boat in the local play wave. A few of the moves you will be working on include: squirts, enders, cartwheels, and 360's. Check our calendar for dates.

Multi-Day Workshops
Fast Track Workshop

The Fast Track Workshop. Take four days to become a competent whitewater kayaker. This course includes all the same progressions as the 2 day introductory workshop, with the addition of a river rescue segment, playboating, session, and more time to practice your newly acquired skills. (See introductory workshops and river rescue descriptions.) This Course is offered May 31-June 3,,June 28-July 2, August 2nd-5th and a woman-only Fast Track July 16-19.

2-Day Workshops

The 2-Day Introductory Clinic is designed for the never ever kayaker who wants to begin their paddling career off on the right foot by following a step by step progression. This workshop begins with a dry land and lake session and progresses to the Colorado River. You will learn how to fit your equipment, efficient paddling techniques, how to catch eddies, ferrying skills, and methods of scouting rapids. This course is offered every weekend starting the weekend of May 12 and running through September. Weekday courses are available June 19-20, July 10-11, Aug 7-8.

The Breakthrough Clinic is a great follow up to our intro clinic; it is steered toward our returning student who is motivated to improve quickly. You will continue to work on river running efficiency and strategies as well as experiment with surfing and basic playboating skills. This course takes place entirely on the river. 2-day Breakthrough courses are offered every weekend from June through August.

All of our multi-day clinics camp out on the Upper Colorado River. We will provide all of your paddling equipment, river clothing, and 2 meals a day(dinner and breakfast). Students need to provide their own lunches. And we’d be happy to help you with finding some lodging if you need. Just give us a call at (970) 688-8900.

Participants need to bring:
1. A water bottle
2. Camping gear [Tent and Sleeping Bag. A cooler suggested. No cooking supplies needed.]
3. Warm dry clothes
4. Evening beverage of choice
5. Two synthetic long underwear tops for on the river
(Poly Pro Etc.)
6. Lunches

Participants are expected to provide their own transportation throughout the weekend. CBST can help arrange car pooling.