Canoe & Kayak Information

Canoe & Kayak Guides

Please visit the Winooski Valley Park District's Guide to Winooski River Paddling Routes. For an introduction to the natural history of the Winooski River and tips for paddling its waters, see Natural History Guide and Paddling Tips (pdf).

Canoe and Kayak Advisory Suggestions

The following is an advisory list of rudimentary cautions and basic points for canoe and kayak safety. Please remember that this is an advisory safety list only. For thorough knowledge of safety procedures, consult canoe or kayak safety guides such as the American Red Cross' Whitewater in an Open Canoe and the Appalachian Mountain Club River Guide.

Always bring a First-Aid kit! Boating alone is discouraged; if you do choose to boat alone, leave an itinerary with someone you know. A lifejacket is required for all parties in a canoe or kayak, per Vermont law. A snug-fitting, vest-type preserver offers back and shoulder protection as well as floation. Always carry a spare paddle with you and keep it close, secure, and readily accessible. Keep your weight low and centered in your boat. A kneeling position in a canoe enhances stability and paddling efficiency. Do not change places in a canoe or kayak while on water. Instead, go ashore unless you are familiar with the proper technique. Securely fasten all non-floating gear to your boat to prevent loss. If you want to start and finish at the same point, it is easier to go upstream and then float downstream to your starting point. Wind tends to blow upstream causing travel time to be slower than anticipated. Plan to paddle harder and spend more time on the river to get to your destination on windy days. If your boat capsizes, hold onto it! The only time you should release your boat and swim for shore is if the water is too cold.

Clothing Recommendations

Many people like to canoe or kayak in a bathing suit; this is fine for summer months, but be sure to take along more protective clothing - a hat, long-sleeve shirt or jersey, pants, socks, and gloves (to prevent blisters).

Consider some woolen clothing if there is a chance of a sudden drop in temperature. Blue jeans, cotton sweatshirts, and other cotton clothing are the worst possible clothing options: if you capsize, they will hold water, will not insulate when wet, and take a long time to dry.

Wading shoes should be worn. Water sandals are nice but sneakers are usually sufficient.

A rainsuit provides the best protection from bad weather. Ponchos hamper your swimming ability and get in the way of paddling.