Just musing on the possibilities allowed by proficiency in the sport of kayaking: How about a twelve mile paddle to Anacapa Island from the mainland where you are able to navigate through a tunnel carved in the rocks . . . or maybe taking your surf kayak to Sand Dollar beach in Big Sur on a ten foot swell and using the channel to get out to the big breakers and ride them all the way to the beach . . . or how about gearing up for a multi-day trip down a section of wilderness in Idaho, longer kayaks, plenty of food and drink and a perspective of the world only available to the avid paddle freak.

All of these options sound like a perfect excuse to break out of societal norms of work, store, chores, sleep, repeat. The sport of kayaking has so many different divisions there is something for everyone. For the hardcore charger with kayak skills there are waterfall drops and class five rapids, for the weekend warrior there is pristine kelp beds and exposed reefs along the California coastline to explore (on days where the surf is low of course).

Kayking is so diverse. There are so many branches the are derivatives from the parent sport. You can kayak in whitewater rapids, smooth-flowing rivers, Sierra fresh lakes, open ocean, coastal treks, in the waves, off waterfalls, and even, as the photo suggests, snow slopes. The possibilities are endless! The gear can be cumbersome and expensive, so I have attached some sites that can familiarize the novice with where to get started.

These sites can help you get an overview on the various subsidiaries of the sport, how to find instructors and equipment, and ideas for adventures with paddles all over the world. This is just another on the growing list of outdoor adventure sports that YOU can get involved with. It is not necessary to be the wildest, strongest or most insane person to be able to find the joy in the sports on this list. There are always varying degrees of difficulty and expertise necessary for a wide range of kayak destinations. Get out there and give it a shot!

photos and links:

http://www.paddling.net/

http://canoekayak.com/

ER Harris