Join your Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) at the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club (PVRC) for a free learn to kayak lesson on the Connecticut River in Springfield, MA.

CRC will provide participants with a brief kayak skills and water safety lesson. We will then enjoy a beautiful guided kayak tour on a section of the Connecticut River. We welcome local beginners as well as participants who are seeking to learn and refine the basics of kayaking on an awesome local resource.

This event is oriented toward beginner paddlers. Pre-registration is required. Participants are invited to bring their own canoe or kayak and join us for this trip. PVRC will provide a limited number of kayaks to borrow through pre-registration, first come first served. Please note that the rental kayaks have a maximum paddler weight capacity of 250lbs. Paddles and life vests are included.

The paddle will take place at Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club. The event will begin with a trip talk and land-based skills orientation. Paddlers will enter the water and receive an introductory safety and technique lesson. Once the lesson at the launch is complete, paddlers will tour upstream exploring the local flora and fauna. Be sure to bring water and snacks with you for this adventure.

This is a moving water paddle with minimal moving current best suited for a beginner and advanced beginner skill levels. We recommend that you have comfort in and around water, have been in a kayak before, and meet all the paddling essential eligibility criteria listed here. All participants are required to wear a PFD on the water. A limited number of kayaks with PFD’s are available. Sunscreen, snacks, and water are highly recommended. Heavy rain or high-water cancels.

Paddling is a physical activity. Please be sure you're prepared for the paddle with water, food, and any supplies you need as an individual to be successful (including medications you might need, ie: inhalers, EpiPen, insulin, etc).