Lesson 4 - Essentials of River Safety and Rescue

For the excited and adventurous paddler, it's time to push your ability to the next level, and hone your skills to do it safely. We start by perfecting the harder peel outs and ferries into micro eddies and go into greater depth of technique and theory. You will learn the basics of swift water rescue and advanced safety. During this class, we will practice swimming in rapids, the use of a throwback and how to take care of yourself when things are not going as planned. You can expect to feel safer and more competent on class III water.

Lessons run rain or shine, so check out our recommended gear list for suggestions on what to bring to be prepared.

Location, Dates, and Times:

All classes begin at 9AM and end around 3PM.

Colorado River, Glenwood Springs, CO

Lesson 4

Start time around 9am

Introductions

Basic rescue equipment

Swimming

Wading

Throw Bagging

Quick Release Harness System

Tow Tether

Boat-based rescue

End time may vary around 3pm

What to bring:
- Lots of water
- Waterproof Sunscreen
- Something to get wet in (swimsuit)
- Lunch and Snacks
- Warm dry clothing for when you are off the water

Additional recommended items:
- Fleece or other synthetic clothing (not containing cotton) that can be worn under a wetsuit
- Kayak noseplugs (with a strap)
- A hat
- Sunglasses with retention strap (Croakies, etc.)
- Wetsuit booties or river sandals (must stay on when you swim)

This lesson includes all the kayaking gear you will need including a boat, paddle, skirt, PFD, helmet, splash jacket, wetsuit and booties.   If you have your own equipment, we encourage you to bring it since it is most likely what you will be using outside of this lesson.

Dotsero, CO

Open Directions (Google Maps)

From Denver: Take I-70 to the Dotsero exit (exit 133), about 130 miles. After taking the off ramp, turn right onto the frontage road going west for about 100 yards. The meeting place is in a dirt lot on the right of the road named Dotsero Landing, immediately before you get to the Colorado River. If you cross the river you've gone too far. The dirt parking lot is on the upstream side of the frontage road next to the river. This class begins at 9am.

Accommodations for classes held on the Colorado River

All hotels and camp grounds are based solely on proximity to the class.  Wehave no affiliation nor do we endorse any of the following hotels or campgrounds. We do not offer any accommodations.  Below are a few of the manyoption available.

Camping options near Dotsero, Co:
Deep Creek Camp Sites
Directions from Denver: Take I-70 Exit 133 at Dotsero and turn north onto County Road 301 (Colorado River Road). Follow for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn at the National Forest Access sign onto Deep Creek Road. Go through private property for the first 2 miles until enter BLM. Campsites are marked along the road, as well as walk-in sites at the Coffeepot trailhead. White River National Forest access is further up the road. Be careful of trucks on road. Located 4.5miles from Dotsero, CO

Upper Colorado River-Lyons Gulch Camp Site
Directions from Denver: Take I-70 Exit 133 at Dotsero and turn north onto County Road 301 (Colorado River Road). Follow road for 3.8 miles until site on right side with two parking areas. Located 4 miles from Dotsero, CO

Hotel options near Dotsero, Co:
The Hotel Glenwood Springs - Great for kids
52000 Two Rivers Plaza Rd
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
(970) 928-8188
www.thehotelglenwoodsprings.com?

Holiday Inn Express Hotel Eagle
0075 Pond Road Eagle, CO 81631
(970) 328-8088
www.hiexpress.com

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Eagle
0085 Pond Road Eagle, CO 81631
(800) 634-3444
www.americinn.com