Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it safe?
Paddle sports are like any other sport, the better you are at it the better
time you will have. Put simply, if you are experienced at paddle sports then you should
have a safe time with no problems, but if you are inexperienced at paddle sports then
you may be in for a difficult time! Only you can accurately judge your own skill
level and we remind you not to "overestimate your own skills, or underestimate
the river." Your safety depends on your skill level, and if your skill level
is low or non-existent, then it can be unsafe no matter what river you are paddling.
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How deep is the river and should I be able to swim?
The river varies in depth throughout all of our trips. Some places
are ankle-deep and others are over your head. We recommend that
everyone wear their lifejacket at all times whether you can swim or
not. We strongly recommend that you be able to swim. However, many
people who cannot swim join us routinely. If you cannot swim then
you should have someone with you that can!
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Is it ok for beginners?
Some beginners have no problems and others really should have
supervision. We suggest you have an experienced paddler
with you if you are a beginner or stick to the 3-mile trip where
you can avoid the class II section of the river. As with any
sport, being in good physical condition will be to your advantage
while having poor physical condition may be an accident waiting to happen.
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How old do I have to be to rent a canoe?
You must be at least 18 years old to rent any of our equipment
and participate in our paddle sports activities or have a parent fill
out our minors waiver form for you before you arrive. (a deposit will be required.)
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How soon before my trip departs should I arrive?
On busy summer weekends you need to be checked in 30 minutes before
your departure time. On weekdays, you need to be checked in no later
than 20 minutes before your departure time.
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What should I wear?
We recommend that everyone wear shoes at all times, a shirt, swimming
trunks or shorts, and a hat. Cotton is always a bad choice for
paddle sports. We recommend wool or synthetic clothing for cooler
paddling conditions. Bring sunscreen to help keep you protected from
the sun.
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Can I bring a lunch and some drinks?
A proper lunch and drinks are a must if you are on the river for
most of the day. We ask that you do not bring any styrofoam or glass.
Alcohol is not ever recommended on the river.
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How long do I have to wait for you to pick us up from the river at the end of our trip?
Any canoe livery business that makes you wait at the end of your
trip for a ride back should be publicly flogged!!! Why would anyone
boat where they are treated so badly? All of our trips end right
here in our yard where your car is parked, and you can leave as soon
as you return. We would never have you walk more than the distance of
a football field and then cross railroad tracks to get back to our livery
like other canoe livery businesses on this river do.
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Do you rent canoes when it's raining?
Yes we do! Some of the best trips are in the rain. However, you need
to be aware of the weather conditions and should postpone your trip
if you think there may be high wind, rain, lightning or thunder. We
will depart as long as the river is at a suitable water level
regardless of the weather conditions. Please note that we do not come
out to pick you up for bad weather. If you call us to come get you
then there is a $40.00 per boat fee to pick you up. So, our advice is
"Do not depart if you are unsure of your safety during a high wind,
lightning, rain or thunder storm."
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Do you have restrooms and showers?
Yes, we have newly remodeled restrooms and hot showers available.
There are no Porta Potties here. That's no way to treat your guests!
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