Who is this program for?
This program is suitable for anyone interested in developing their personal paddling and backcountry skills, those interested in teaching or those that want to prepare for the new Level 3 Trip Leader courses. We can offer an optional Trip Leader Assessment at the end of the program.
Learn more about ACA Instructor Training Course and Levels.
There’s no better place to sharpen skills than a genuine backcountry trip! After spending 11 winters guiding trips in Florida’s 10,000 Islands, I’m confident in this destination for a great instructor training experience. This setting throws in some challenging navigation and tidal elements and some opportunities for increased “conditions” on the outer coast. You’ll be practicing strokes, maneuvers and rescues while actually going somewhere in your kayak, geared up on a backcountry trip. That means that everything we practice will be in a much more real-world context with a much bigger take-away. Even if you are not looking for an assessment, you’ll be building long term skills that will serve you well as an independent paddler.
You’ll feel like you are out paddling with a fine group of friendly paddlers, coached along in a supportive setting and sharing good stories around a fire. Sounds better than being in a “class”, doesn’t it? So….a good skills refinement along with a big side of fun! Other class participants could include dolphins, manatees, ospreys and excitable mullet. Welcome to the Uncommon Classroom!
Dates for 2022
- February 20 – 25
Cost
$1295 per person includes Instructor Trainer, ACA assessment, backcountry fees, most backcountry meals, tents, dry bags and all safety gear. Expedition kayak rental available for $100. Choices from Wilderness Tempests through NDK Explorers. Give us your wish list, we’ll try to fill it!
Itinerary
Day 1
10 am meet-up in Everglades City. Orientation, route and navigation planning, pack and paddle out. Backcountry camp. Group dinner.
Day 2
Paddle out from base camp for a morning of strokes refinement while paddling amongst islands, landing on beaches, towing, rescues and scenarios. Group dinner at same backcountry camp.
Day 3
Navigate through mangrove channels searching for Indian mounds, lost settlements, big fish and good stories.
Day 4
Assessment exercises while we travel and look for manatees and dolphins.
Day 5
Pack and paddle into Everglades City by 3 pm for return trips.
What to Bring
Participant Profile Form
We need the Participant Profile Form when you register!
Registration
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