Rapid Progression River Trip: a whitewater kayaking day designed to help paddlers transition from beginner to intermediate.

The Rapid Progression River Trip is a whitewater kayak course designed to help paddlers transition from beginner to intermediate skills with Tumalo Creek. This full-day river trip takes place on the Deschutes, North Santiam, and/or McKenzie Rivers in and around Central Oregon, focusing on mileage, reading water, kayak safety, and refining fundamental skills in real whitewater environments.

Rather than a step-by-step progression, whitewater kayaking is about building confidence and proficiency first. This course offers the perfect opportunity to solidify your skills, gain river running experience, and prepare for the next level of your paddling journey.

Who is this course for:

This course is designed for kayakers who have completed our Full Immersion Whitewater Course or who already have equivalent or higher skills and are comfortable running Class II+ – III rapids with instructor support. It’s an ideal bridge between our Full Immersion and Intermediate Whitewater courses, and also a great opportunity for confident paddlers to get on Class II+ – III water with a supportive group and experienced, informative instructors providing guidance along the way.

Whether you’re paddling in Bend, Oregon, or exploring nearby Deschutes River or McKenzie River runs, our expert instructors will guide you through a dynamic day of growth and adventure.

Tumalo Creek’s Whitewater Progression:

Tumalo Creek’s whitewater progression begins at step 1. the Full Immersion Whitewater Kayaking Course, then builds through step 2. focused Rapid-Progression 2hrs sessions, Rapid-Progression day river trips, and roll clinics. From there, paddlers advance to step 3. the Intermediate Whitewater Kayaking Weekend, culminating in a true capstone experience: a raft-supported, three-day Lower Deschutes Whitewater Kayaking Camp.

Equipment List

Tumalo Creek Provides

  • Kayak
  • Sprayskirt
  • Paddle
  • PFD
  • Immersion Gear
  • Instruction
  • Transportation from Tumalo Creek

Participant Provides

  • Sunglasses with retainers
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • River appropriate shoes
  • Synthetic top and bottom
  • Swimsuit
  • Water bottle
  • Towel and change of cloths for after class
  • High energy snacks and lunch

Gear required for this trip is available for purchase at our shop.

Meeting Location

805 SW Industrial Way, Ste. 6 Bend, OR 97702

+ CANCELLATION POLICY

Tumalo Creek Deposits and Cancellation Policies:

Multi Day Lessons/Tours: 14 days prior to departure date required for cancellations or date changes. No Shows, cancellations or date changes for any reason inside the 14 day cancelation period will be subject to forfeiture of all fees.

Tumalo Creek (TC) Initiated Cancellation Disclaimer: Applies to all one day lessons, trips, tours, multi-day trips, camps and special events. TC reserves the right to cancel, postpone or reschedule one day lessons, trips, tours, multi-day trips, camps and special events within 24 hours of the scheduled date. Circumstances include but are not limited to low enrollment, weather (ex. thunderstorms/lightning), natural disasters (ex. forest fires) and events or circumstances beyond TC’s control.

+ OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

If you enjoy this course consider participating in one, or all of our summer progression. We offer weekly kayak and roll sessions, intermediate whitewater courses, and multi-day whitewater kayaking camps.

If you would like to learn more visit our web page www.tumalocreek.com

+ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I bring my own gear?

If you have your own gear and or boat you are more than welcome to bring your gear to the classes. It is always good to practice in the same equipment you will use after the class.

Can kids come to these lessons?

We have a strict age requirement of 15 for standard lessons. If you have a child younger than 15 please check out our offerings for Tumalo Kids or email [email protected] to get information on private classes.

Do I have to get on the water?

If you are taking a class we do require you to come out on the water and practice the techniques we are covering. Though we start on land most of our instruction is on the water so students can try the new skill in real time.

Do I have to participate in the self rescue?

It is entirely optional but highly recommended that you try your hand at a self rescue during class. Practice makes perfect and what better way to practice than by having a certified instructor right there with you.

Will I fall in?

It is entirely possible that you will fall in the water. We will always suit you up with all of the necessary safety gear for the discipline you are participating in, and our certified instructors are well versed in water rescues. But still, be prepared to swim.