Kayaking Fundamentals

The outing: If you've never paddled a sea kayak and want to learn the fundamentals, join us for this outing. You don't need a kayak, paddle or pfd (life jacket) -- rentals are available (see below). This is a short, 2-hour instructional paddle, designed to give you an idea of whether you think kayaking is for you. After instruction, we'll do a short, easy paddle on Lake River, a flatwater, tidal tributary of the Columbia.
Meeting time/location: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday May 27, Ridgefield Marina, Ridgefield, WA. If you sign up, the outing leader needs your FULL name, cell number and email address. Include the name and number of an emergency contact, and email to the leader: tripsguy@aol.com.
How to find us: Follow I-5 north or south to exit 14 (Pioneer St) for Ridgefield. Drive west to downtown Ridgefield (3 miles) and continue straight ahead at the flashing red light. You'll see the marina on your left. Parking: head-in parking on the gravel is free next to the fence. If you park on the pavement, secure a parking permit from the machine at the restroom ($8/day).
Kayak rentals: Alder Creek Kayak's rental boathouse is on the water at the marina. You must contact them before the outing to arrange your rental: Google Alder Creek to rent online (click on Ridgefield Rentals), or call the boathouse at (360) 727-4520 or (360) 607-8797. Single kayak rental fee is $40/2 hrs. Double kayaks rent for $50/2 hrs. Paddle and pfd is included. If you have your own kayak, feel free to bring it (no inflatables, please).
Waiver: Sierra Club outing policy requires all participants to sign a waiver of liability before getting on the water. You'll also need to sign a separate waiver for Alder Creek. This is done at the meeting location and at the boathouse.
Your participation: If you sign up, plan to participate. Don't be a no-show. Unable to make it after signing up? Take a moment to cancel on Meetup, or email the leader: tripsguy@aol.com .
Outing donation: Sierra Club members $2, non-members $4, cash or check only. Make checks payable to Sierra Club. Donations further the work of Loo Wit Group/Sierra Club in SW Washington.
What to wear and bring: Clothing to suit weather. Note: NO COTTON! Polyester or nylon are far superior and will keep you warmer if you should get wet. Sunglasses: will protect your eyes if it's sunny. Hat: to protect your head and keep you warmer. Footwear: water shoes or river sandals. Include lunch and a full, 1-qt water bottle.
Weather: You'll receive a reminder/weather update on Monday, May 27. Any severe weather (heavy rain or high winds) will cancel this outing. Leader will attempt to reschedule.
Questions: Email the leader in advance of the outing: tripsguy@aol.com.