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.

You may register for 1 of the 2 available learn to kayak sessions. Session 1 will be from 10am-12:30pm. Session 2 will be from 1pm-3:30pm. Pre-registration is required. The paddle will take place at Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club. 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.  Youth paddlers age 14 and up are welcome with an adult present. 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.

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).