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Skills & JudgmentThere are no mysterious or superhuman attributes needed to become a good technical paddler. Unlike many adventure activities that demand a keen sense of balance, nerves of steel, or supreme physical prowess, kayaking is relatively easy to learn and requires only moderate physical conditioning. Committed paddlers can become highly proficient paddlers in one season, and inside of a couple of years many become competent expedition members or instructors. With that said, there are also severe risks involved, especially if you get into conditions beyond your ability. The real challenge of the sport is knowing the environment, evaluating risks and staying within your limits. This challenge also provides the largest rewards: a sense of self reliance, and the means to experience unique wilderness environments, wildlife, and cultures. New paddlers often become initially enthralled with all the technical aspects of gear, strokes, and learning to use the paddle and craft in an efficient manner. As skills develop and confidence grows, the technical aspects become second nature, and the kayak becomes more of a means to explore new territory. This is when all the senses need to be switched on and your awareness expands to encompass weather, water conditions, group abilities, the route, provisions, equipment maintenance etc. Problems don’t happen often while sea kayaking, but when they do they can have dire consequences (drowning). Having the the foresight to avoid potential problems is a big part of being safe; knowing what to do when things do go wrong can make the difference between life and death. Trek & Trail’s confidence course will help you to develop both the technical skills you need to become a good paddler, as well as expose you to controlled situations and scenarios that give you a basis for making sound decisions in a wilderness environment.
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The Confidence Course is geared towards paddlers who have taken the Basic Safety Course or are familiar with equivalent skills including: forward & reverse touring strokes, forward and reverse sweeps, stopping stroke , low brace, T -rescue, and the paddle float rescue. This course will help to prepare participants to paddle safely in non-moving water conditions. The course content includes some lecture but most of the time is spent practicing the techniques on the water. You should be prepared to spend most of your weekend on the water. Participants can expect to improve their basic paddling techniques and start to work on some more advanced strokes. Where To Meet: All trip participants should meet at Trek & Trail’s outfitting center at the Old Cooperage building in Bayfield on the day of your course Accommodations: If you want to arrive early in Bayfield or stay a day or two after your trip,Trek & Trail has cabins available from $115 to $130/night. If you’re looking for something other than cabins, we also recommend contacting the Bayfield Chamber of Commerce for more accommodation information: 800.447.4094. Weather: Weather is always a factor that demands attention when going out on Lake Superior. In terms of weather, sea kayaking is a very versatile activity; if you’re prepared it’s easy to enjoy the more mystical lake atmosphere provided by light rain or cloud cover. In fact, inclement weather provides a better learning environment for this course. Prior Conditioning: Trek & Trail strives to provide you with an enjoyable experience. Pre-trip conditioning and physical activities will help prepare you for your trip. Suggestions for conditioning include: sit-ups, push-ups, cycling, rowing, canoeing, swimming, and calisthenics that strengthen your shoulders, arms, and abdominal muscles. Persons with health problems, particularly heart problems, are required to consult their physician prior to participating. Your Account: Any remaining balance on your account is due 45 days prior to your course. Please be sure you have an accurate understanding of our cancellation policy. A Little About Bayfield: Bayfield is a comfortable town with the look of a New England fishing village. While here, take time to visit Bayfield’s museum and some of the local shops. The ferry ride to Madeline Island is an excellent day excursion. Ask the Bayfield Chamber of Commerce (800.447.4094) for information about potential evening activitys. Great views and magnificent sunsets, vast orchards and exciting charters make up part of the beauty and special allure of this area -- while you’re here take time to enjoy it! |
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From the junction of Hwy's 2 and 13 on the outskirts of Ashland, WI, turn onto Hwy 13 North. Bayfield is 21 miles north of Ashland on Hwy 13. Once in Bayfield, Hwy 13 becomes Rittenhouse Avenue, the “main street” of Bayfield. Trek & Trail's main store, reservation center and outfitting center is located in the Boothe Cooprage on 7 Washington Ave. Next to the Madline Island Ferry. A Few Other Considerations:*Please make your guide aware of any pertinent medical conditions you may have -- i.e. allergies, medications you’re taking, etc. If you have any questions concerning your personal fitness or your ability to participate, please be sure to consult your physician. *We ask that all minors are accompanied by an adult on all of our tours and expeditions. *Please remember that if you are late for a trip you are not the only one affected. Our trips are normally fully booked. Your promptness affects everyone’s allotted time on the water. Please plan accordingly. *We cannot control the weather. Occasionally we are forced to alter our trip routes. Please be understanding. *We recommend that all participants acquire travel insurance to cover emergency medical situations, evacuations and unforeseen last minute cancelations. Please refer to enclosed brochure. |
Confidence Course ItinerarySaturday 9:00 a.m. Check-in and Paperwork Confidence Course Overview Sunday 9:00 a.m. Meet at Cooperage Route Planning Equipment Selection If you have concerns regarding equipment you'd like to bring along, or your Confidence Course in general, please call us at 800.354.8735. We want you to have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Equipment & Clothing ListDuring the Confidence Course you will participate in wet-exits and rescues. Trek & Trail provides your wetsuit, but for your safety and comfort you should come prepared with a change of clothes to wear after your course. You should also bring the the following items: We offer a 10 % discount for all Trek & Trail trip participants on general kayaking items (gear, clothing, supplies, etc.) that you might find useful while on the water. Ask about our participant merchandise discount packages: 800.354.8735.
For more information or Reservations call (800) 354-8735 or
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Trek & Trail, Inc. 7 Washington Ave. Bayfield, WI 54814 |
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