GIRLS PADDLE

GIRLS PADDLE PROGRAM MAY/June 2026

 
 

THE GIRLS PADDLE PROGRAM

We are excited to launch a special paddling program created to introduce young women to the thrill and adventure of whitewater kayaking!

This program is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsor, whose contribution allows us to offer this opportunity at no cost to participants.

Program Details
Our club will be offering Learn to Kayak Whitewater lessons for 12 teens ages 12–17. Participants will develop foundational paddling skills, build confidence on the water, and experience the excitement of moving water in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment.

The program includes:

  • Six (6) flatwater lessons at Cultus Lake
    1.5 hours each, focused on essential skills, safety, and technique

  • Four (4) whitewater lessons on the Vedder River
    Introducing current, river features, and basic whitewater maneuvers

This is a unique chance for young paddlers to explore the sport, connect with others, and gain skills they can enjoy for a lifetime.

WHAT PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN:

The lessons will cover three key areas:

1. Water Safety
Learn about essential safety equipment for both lake and river paddling, identify potential hazards, and practice paddling safety signals to stay safe on the water.

2. Environmental Stewardship
Explore the traditional Indigenous roots of the area, understand the local ecosystem, and gain insight into current environmental challenges and how you can help protect these waterways.

3. Paddling Skills
Develop your kayaking abilities through levels 1–4 of the Canoe Kayak Canada Curriculum. Participants will progress through foundational techniques, building confidence and competence on both flatwater and moving water. (More details about the paddling skills can be found here).

Lesson Schedule

Lesson Date Time Location

1 Monday, May 4 4:45 PM – 6:15 PM Cultus Lake

2 Saturday, May 9 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cultus Lake

3 Monday, May 11 4:45 PM – 6:15 PM Cultus Lake

4 Saturday, May 16 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cultus Lake

5 Monday, May 18 4:45 PM – 6:15 PM Cultus Lake

6 Saturday, May 25 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Cultus Lake

7 Monday June 8 4:45 PM – 6:15 PM Cultus Lake - Bonus lesson

Whitewater Lessons – Vedder Park

Lesson Date Time Options Location

8 Saturday, May 30 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Vedder Park

9 Sunday, May 31 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Vedder Park

10 Saturday, June 13 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Vedder Park

11 Sunday, June 14 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Vedder Park

WHERE:

The flatwater lessons will be held at Cultus Lake (Main Beach) 76 Pavillion Blvd, Cultus Lake. The meeting location for the whitewater lessons will be Vedder Park, Chilliwack with a pick up location of Lickman road or as indicated by the instructor on the day of the lesson.

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

  1. Identify as female

  2. Be between the ages of 12-17. Participants must be 12 on the start date of the program. Okay if participants turn 18 during the program.

  3. Must be comfortable putting your head underwater and swimming in moving water with a PFD.

if you have been accepted into the program, paddlers will be expected to:

  • dress appropriately for the weather. Paddlers should wear multiple layers if it is cold, water shoes or runners (no crocs or sandals), wet suits will be provided;

  • be able to meet at the designated locations - Cultus Lake and Vedder Park. Participants will need to be picked up from the take out - likely Peach Road or Lickman Road;

  • be excellent listeners and follow direction from the kayaking instructors;

  • be respectful and supportive of your fellow paddlers and kayaking instructors;

  • respect club equipment and environment;

  • have excellent communication skills. If the participant is sick or must miss a lesson unexpectedly please communicate this with the CCE admin team; and

  • be able to attend 9 of the 11 sessions.

COST:

This program completely free for participants. All paddling equipment will be provided.

IMPORTANT DATES:

  • Informational Session is April 8, 2026 at 7:30pm via zoom.

  • Application Deadline: April 12, 2026.

  • Participants will be contacted by April 14, 2026.

  • First lesson Monday May 4, 2026.

If you have any questions please email us at ccekayak@gmail.com.