Whitewater Kayaking
Get ready to get soaked (in the best way). This trip is all about learning the fundamentals of whitewater kayaking while exploring the rivers near the Aziscohos Valley Campground. Over four days, you’ll progress from calm flatwater to navigating moving currents, all while building skills and confidence.
No prior kayaking experience is required—just a willingness to learn, a sense of adventure, and comfort swimming in moving water. We’ll cover strokes, how to get out of your boat if you flip over, and paddling in rapids, all at a pace that meets you where you’re at. The group will travel in a van and support truck, camping at Aziscohos Valley with a water pump, outhouse, and in tents.
We have all the boats and whitewater stuff for you, but here's what you should pack! See Whitewater Kayaking Packing List. Note that all items that you can borrow from the BOC or purchase from the BOC store are noted on the packing list.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (207) 725-4292 or bocOtrips@bowdoin.edu.
Sample Itinerary:
Wednesday
- Depart Bowdoin for Errol, NH.
- Arrive and set up camp!
- Get on the water to learn the basics—wet exits and paddling strokes!
Thursday
- Breakfast and gear up.
- River safety talk and paddle Errol.
- Have lunch at Errol and relax.
- Paddle More!
Friday
- Breakfast.
- Morning paddle session
- Lunch at Aziscohos Campground and spend the afternoon relaxing.
Saturday, August 30
- Depart Errol and return to Bowdoin. Deissue gear before returning to dorms.