** Applications for 2025 have closed! Email bdp@paddleuaps if you would like to be considered next year (2026)**
The Beginner Development Program (BDP) has been structured to drain your adrenal gland while developing your kayaking skills. You will find yourself lost in a torrent of whitewater, probably upside down more often that you would like, and having a blast with your peers. Whitewater kayaking is not for everyone, but if you are ready to make the move from couch surfing to kayak surfing, then we look forward to helping you embrace your inner adrenaline junkie (it’s just kind of what we’re good at.)
The program consists of four weekend trips throughout the summer on rivers of increasing difficulty. We will start in the Kananaskis region in May where you'll get your first taste of whitewater, and complete eddy turns and ferries in class II features. Next, we'll visit the Pincher Creek area to paddle the Old Man River, a stunning river in the foothills, in June. We up the ante in July at the Lower Red Deer River near Sundre, and return to the Upper Kananaskis for the final weekend in August. You will get to test your skills on features like Santa Claws and Mountain Wave, which are sure to get your heart pumping!
Much of the equipment for the program is supplied by the UAPS (kayak, paddle, PFD, and helmet) but you will need to invest in proper kayaking clothing (wetsuit, dry top, and closed toe footwear.) This investment will ensure you enjoy your time on the river, rather than turning blue from hypothermia. We will discuss gear at the Whitewater Safety talk, and are happy to answer any and all questions! We have also created a packing list, as you will be camping on all BDP weekends. Please read through "what to know before registering" as it will give you a good idea of what you are signing up for this summer.
Please note UAPS is a non-profit paddling organization with BDP programming led by volunteer certified NCCP leaders and/or instructors. To ensure continuity of our instructors, you can expect to participate in an NCCP evaluation(s) during BDP. Evaluations will consist of one of our trained leaders/instructors leading/instructing you on the scheduled river run while being evaluated by a national learning facilitator.
.png)