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Kid's Guide School - Mergansers Ages 8-12

River
Rio Grande
Duration
Multi Day
Minimum Age 8-12
Meals
Snack
Price
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About the trip

Is your little River Rat looking for some fun with other like minded River Rats? This is a wonderful way for your little one to gain a fun, safe and rewarding introduction to river running. With an emphasis on safety and team work, this camp is sure to inspire a

  • Full Day of fun with certified raft guide instructors
  • Introduction to all aspects of rafting
  • Learn about swift water safety through fun and games
  • Learn about flora and fauna of Northern New Mexico

This trip meets at our private, Rio Grande Headquarters which is conveniently located 1 hour north of Santa Fe and 30 min. south of Taos. Our fully stocked Headquarters and Outfitters Shop is in the heart of the Rio Grande Gorge right across the street from the river, less than 1 mile from the finishing point of the most popular trips and offers safe, secure parking in our private parking lot.

For directions to our Rio Grande Headquarters click here!

What time of year are you courses offered?
Dates for all of our ACA certification courses in December and January and vary year to year. We usually offer courses in the Spring and Fall. Our custom courses are available at different times throughout the season, please contact our helpful reservation staff for more information and to reserve your space.

What kind of certification will I receive?
Our ACA courses have the opportunity to receive up to a level 4 certification in each skill. Certifications are determined by class participation, understanding of the material and skills.

Who will my instructors be?
All of our instructors are industry leaders with a high level of skill and experience. Their patient, knowledgeable approach to each skill will set you up for not only a fruitful but fun experience.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

This 4 day program, taught by specially selected and certified guide instructors, is for our youngest whitewater enthusiasts – typically ages 8-12. Each session has just 12 spaces available. Kids learn about the dynamics of moving water, play games, learn about the environment and conservation, and sing songs while practicing teamwork to get their raft downstream. The emphasis is FUN!

We will spend our days in a variety of locations including Abiquiu Lake, and the Rio Grande.  There will be introductions to swimming in moving current, fun games in and out of the water and of course great practice paddling, guiding, and working as a team. ​ We will also spend time talking about river safety and things to look out for while on the river, such as wearing helmets in whitewater, techniques for staying in the boat, basics of swimming in whitewater and last but not least, environmental concerns like identifying toxic plants and animals and how to be safe while having fun and playing games on shore and in camp. They’ll certainly come home with Huck Finn-like stories of their own!

Each person will receive a detailed confirmation email after reservation with all the necessary information including what to bring, what to wear and where to meet.  Each day we will meet at our Rio Grande headquarters at 8:30am and kids will be ready for pick up between 4:30pm and 5pm. Included in each day are morning and afternoon snacks as well as a hearty buffet lunch.  Feel free to send your child with his or her favorite snacks if you like.

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