Paddle Smart: Intro to Paddle Sports

Have you recently purchased a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard but aren’t quite confident getting out on the water? Join Outdoor Chattanooga for Paddle Smart Chattanooga, a beginner-friendly introduction to flatwater paddling designed to help you build skills and confidence.
Bring your own boat or rent one of ours and learn the fundamentals of safe and enjoyable paddling. This hands-on clinic is taught by experienced instructors using American Canoe Association curriculum and covers everything you need to get started.
Participants will learn how to properly outfit and transport their boat, basic paddling techniques, navigation essentials, and safe entry and exit practices. The course also introduces self-rescue skills, including deep-water recovery and assisted rescues, along with important safety information such as Tennessee boating regulations and how water flow (CFS) impacts paddling conditions.
You may borrow one of our boats (kayak, SUP or canoe) for $35.
If you want to learn with your own paddle craft/equipment, the instructional fee is $10.
Whether you're brand new or looking to refine your skills, this class will prepare you to confidently explore Chattanooga’s waterways and plan your own paddling adventures.
Register at outdoorchattanooga.com/calendar