Best Kayaking Classes In New Mexico - New Mexico River Adventures

Looking for the absolute best kayaking classes in New Mexico? Your search is over!

White water adventuring is one of the epitomes of what it means to visit New Mexico. And one of the best ways to explore New Mexico’s white water is kayaking! Plus, after learning some basic kayaking skills, you can travel places that roads and trails cannot take you. Here are some of the top places for kayaking instruction in the New Mexico area.

1. New Mexico River Adventures (Inflatable Kayaking, ‘duckies’)

There are several sections of the river in New Mexico to practice kayaking on if you check out New Mexico River Adventures. From the classic Rio Grande Race Course to our multi-day Rio Chama adventure—at no extra cost—guests can reserve inflatable kayaks ‘duckies’ that offer a wide range of skill levels a trip of a lifetime. In fact, there is no prior experience necessary in order to rent and partake in the inflatable kayaking experience (‘quackening,’ as we like to refer to it). When renting inflatable kayaks, guests will have the opportunity to learn basic kayaking skills in class 2-3 rapids.

2. New Mexico River Adventures (Hardshell Kayaking)

If you are looking for a more immersive kayaking experience, New Mexico River Adventures offers whitewater kayaking classes that use plastic or fiberglass kayaks versus inflatable kayaks. These kayaks are a step up from the inflatable kayaks because they are a bit less sturdy. Nevertheless, with private or custom whitewater kayak clinics, you are guaranteed to fall in love with the amazing sport of kayaking!

And for those who want to learn how to teach kayaking, New Mexico River Adventures also offers an ACA L1-4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Certification Workshop. Check out a few of our whitewater kayaking classes below!

3. University of New Mexico

If you are a college student or faculty member at the University of New Mexico, look no further than the University of New Mexico’s recreational center for a discounted price of kayaking instruction. The classes cover basic boat control skills, which include, but are not limited to: the wet-exit, efficient forward stroke, and the quintessential kayak roll. Your money will buy you three classroom and pool sessions followed by a two-day weekend adventure on the Rio Grande Racecourse, south of Taos. The program is usually offered in the spring, so mark your calendars to check the program out around then!

Can’t wait to see you all out on the water!

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier outfitter for family-friendly or challenging river adventures on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama. From multi-day trips to half-day trips, there’s a trip for everyone! Bring your group of family and friends for a smashing good time whitewater rafting and kayaking in New Mexico.