Beginner & Intermediate Whitewater Canoe Courses in Ontario

Fun, Inclusive Whitewater Lessons & Instruction on the Madawaska River

Looking to try whitewater paddling for the first time – or return to the river with more skill and confidence? Paddler Co-op’s two-day beginner and intermediate whitewater canoe courses are perfect for adults, teens, and families who want to build skills, gain confidence, and have a blast on the water.

Courses run weekly starting Tuesdays and Saturdays, so it’s easy to fit a paddling adventure into your summer plans.

🛶 Who Are These Canoe Courses For?

Our whitewater classes are designed for paddlers of all backgrounds and experience levels:

✅ Love paddling lakes or tripping and want to add whitewater skills to your toolkit
✅ Have always wanted to try whitewater paddling but didn’t know where to start
✅ Have some whitewater experience but no formal training
✅ Paddle only a few times a year and want to boost your confidence and have fun
✅ Want to try a new type of boat or whitewater discipline
✅ Haven’t paddled in years and want to get back on the water
✅ Want to learn with a new partner and share the excitement

No partner? No problem! We welcome solo sign-ups and will happily pair you with another paddler or an instructor.

What Will I Learn?

Each course is tailored to your goals and experience. You’ll learn:

• How to fit your gear and follow essential safety practices

• Whitewater swimming and self-rescue techniques

• Strokes and maneuvers to move confidently through rapids

• How to read the river, scout rapids, and spot hazards

• Real-time coaching to improve your technique

• How to paddle safely, responsibly — and have a ton of fun doing it

• Extra skills or personalized tips on request

Intermediate Whitewater Canoeing Courses

Already know the basics?

Our intermediate courses help you:

✅ Refine strokes and boat control
✅ Learn new techniques and challenge yourself at your own pace
✅ Build confidence in a supportive, fun-focused environment
✅ Get a pre-season refresher so you feel strong on the water

Want to Stay On-Site? 🏕️

Extend the fun and stay right on-site with our camping options! Enjoy evenings by the fire, connect with new paddling friends, and soak in the full river community vibe. Prefer a cozy bed? Explore nearby accommodations.

What If My Course Doesn’t Fill?

If fewer than 3 people sign up 14 days before, we’ll contact you with options:

• Upgrade to private or semi-private instruction (additional cost)

• Rebook into another group course to keep the group rate

We’ll make sure you still get on the water and have fun!

Have Questions?

📞 Call us: 613-758-2772
📧 Email: [email protected]

Ready to book? A booking fee applies for online reservations. We can’t wait to get you out on the water — learning, laughing, and loving every minute!

Please Note: Minimum of 3 participants required. Paddler Co-op reserves the right to cancel or reschedule courses if minimum enrolment is not met. Only 1 discount code per program may be applied.