Instructional Programs

Poudre Paddler classes teach strokes and skills for levels from beginning paddlers through river enthusiasts.
All class participants must . . .
  • have their club dues current to begin classes.
  • have or rent your own boats and gear
  • must be a competent swimmer​​

ACA Certified Canoe Instructors

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Whitewater Canoeing  
​Tandem & Solo
Eric Hermann

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River Canoeing
Tandem & Solo 

​Mike Koliha
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Whitewater Canoeing  
Tandem & Solo
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Debbie Hinde

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River Canoeing
Tandem & Solo
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Richard Ferguson

Other Poudre Paddler Instructors

River Canoeing
Mike O'Brien
Sea Kayak - Camping
Randy Knauff
River Kayaking - Camping
Karen Roth

2018 Training Schedule

Introduction to Canoeing (FULL)
Lead Instructor :: Eric Hermann
Location :: River Bend Ponds
Dates ::
  Saturday, May 5, 9AM - 1PM - Pond session
  Sunday, May 6, 1:30 - 4:30 (or possibly longer)
  Sunday, May 13, 1:30 – 4:30 (alternate)
​Enrollment deadline :: April 1st
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Beginning River Rescue
Lead Instructor :: Debbie Hinde
Location :: Poudre Canyon
Dates :: TBD
​Enrollment deadline :: TBD
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2018 Training Classes

Introduction to Canoeing
Flatwater & Basic River Canoeing​

Note:  this class is usually taught in early-mid May, but we are waiting to see who in our club is interested before we can schedule it.  If we have only a few students, we may refer them to a class—likely end of April—offered through Denver’s Rocky Mountain Canoe Club.

Eric Hermann
Debbie Hinde
Mike Koliha             
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You may attend for the first day only. However, for day two, day one is a prerequisite. 
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The first day is Basic Canoeing, including strokes to be used in lakes or rivers: forward and reverse strokes, turning strokes, side-slipping, stability, and safety, as well as equipment choices. Your strokes will be refined through demonstration, practice, individualized feedback and instruction. Communication and coordination between tandem partners will be discussed.

The second day will build upon the flatwater class. The basic strokes will be applied on moving water (up to Class I+). Eddy turns, peel outs, and ferries will be introduced and practiced. Boat tilts and other methods that also help you stay upright will be discussed and demonstrated.

We may opt for more time on flatwater if conditions and student preferences/abilities suggest it. 
Beginning River Rescue and Safety Class 

Dates :: TBD
Debbie Hinde
Randy Knauf 

Safety and rescue skills are essential for any paddler. This class is for Poudre Paddlers wanting to run rivers. Fundamental safety equipment, preparation & planning, appropriate clothing, basic boat rigging for safety, understanding and recognizing hazards, reading rapids, self-rescue skills, and on-shore rescue of swimmers will be covered. Other safety and rescue issues may be addressed including: minimizing the risk of capsizing, safe boat entry and exit, and boat-to-boat rescue.

If you attend this class, you will get wet! Please wear suitable clothing and bring extra dry clothing too. Consider renting a wet suit or dry suit.  (RMA 970 493 4005)