Zero to Hero - Madawaska Kanu Centre

Home > Canoe + Kayak Courses > Beginner > Zero to Hero

Course Overview

Starting on flatwater, we cover the foundation to Moving Water Canoeing or Kayaking before transitioning into current on the river. Putting it all together, the afternoon will see you run a Class I-II set of rapids. The perfect whitewater sampler getting you from zero to hero! This full day will give you a great introduction to the sport – but it’s only a teaser. It takes more time to progress in whitewater kayaking and canoeing, so we hope you will be back for a Weekend or 5 Day course!

Who is this Course for?

If you’ve never been in a kayak or canoe, or never paddled in whitewater, this course is for you! Minimum Age 12 years old. Kids under 15 must have an accompanying adult. Available Mon-Fri.

Course Location

Our wilderness classroom is the beautiful Middle Madawaska River, located a short distance from our Resort, and just south of the town of Barry’s Bay, Ontario.

Cost

Instruction Fee

$290 for 2 or more students

$500 for private

(Available Monday – Thursday only)

Rental Package

$85-$95 (whitewater boat, paddle, helmet, life jacket)

Lunch (optional)

$30

This course runs by request from:

May 3-August 28

Can’t find your preferred date? Let us know and we’ll do our best to help. Contact Us.

5 Days

Yoga Whitewater Week

Yoga and kayaking or canoeing. Join us for our famous 5 day course with additional yoga programming to harmonize your learning with mindful motion.

Beginner

$1225 / Per person

Weekend

Weekend Whitewater

MKC’s Weekend Canoe or Kayak Clinic is an introduction to the exciting world of whitewater paddling.

Beginner

$500 / Per person

5 Days

Family Week

Enjoy your next family vacation learning whitewater kayaking or canoeing at MKC! A truly uplifting getaway for the whole family!

Beginner

$1075 / Per person

Reviews

					A great time.  I highly recommend MKC This was my 3rd, five day white water kayaking trip with MKC.  It was another fabulous week. 

I always choose the all inclusive option.  I camp, but there are a number of indoor options for those who prefer that.  I select the full meal plan, as I really don't want to do my own cooking before I paddle, or after a long day on the water. Don't let the young cooks worry you. (They're students working the summer months. Some of them are in culinary arts training.)  The meals are better that a lot of restaurants.  There's always vegetarian options at every meal.  I like this because, and I like variety, and sometimes I want a change.

It doesn't matter what your skill level is, you'll have fun and will learn.  On this last trip, there was a couple in their 80s, who wanted a new adventure to try out.  How great is that.  The instructors/guides always give positive feedback.  You'll never hear you did anything wrong.  (Typically, you all ready figured that out.)  The guide will say something like: "Try this technique, and see how you like it."  The guide will then demonstrate the technique a couple of times, and watch you trying it, while shouting encouragement to you.  Plus, the rest of the people in your group will be cheering you on.  When someone in the group does their first practice roll, or any combat roll, the cheers are thunderous.  The grin on the person who just did the roll, says it all.  

This year I was in seniors week. (I'm 73.)  Virtually everyone had their own equipment.  No worries if you need gear.  MKC has excellent equipment, and will outfit you with everything you need, appropriate to your experience level. If you want to try a  performance boat, they'll let you try one.

All in all, it's a great experience.  I plan to return next year for my 4th time.

Give it a try!

Alan - Registered Maine Guide in Sea Kayaking
read moreread less
Sky K
9/08/2024
					White water  st madawaska kanoe club. MKC Thank you Tatiana and Reagan!!! Great fun family rafting guides. This us a affordable trip the whole family will enjoy. Will return for adventure rafting for sure!
read moreread less
Teena S
8/15/2024
					Wonderful time at Madawaska Family Rafting Wednesday, July 31 2024 @ 12:30pm - 2:30pm We went rafting with our 10 year old twin granddaughters and friends Andy, Dianne, Maggie and Abbie.  Our guide Alix was excellent.  Alix explained every detail of the trip before we entered the rapids.  It is very safe for all ages.  We had a great time and will not forget our memories.  We plan on making this a yearly event.  Thank you to Madawaska Family Rafting for the wonderful time! Andrew and Marlene
read moreread less
Marlene S
8/08/2024