Kayaking

Kayak icon

Zoo Town Surfers offers the most progressive whitewater kayak instruction available in Montana.
If whitewater is not your thing, then we offer scenic kayak tours as well.

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Start your kayak journey today!

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Kayak Missoula. From beginners to experts, there is a perfect location for every skill level in the Missoula Valley. Our goal is to make kayaking fun, safe, and accessible. Our instructors are certified by the ACA (American Canoe Association) and are swiftwater rescue technicians. Watching our students progress and have fun on the river inspires our instructors to keep teaching and exploring. Our love for paddling in Montana is a passion that we want to share with others.

As a kayaker based in Missoula, you’ll have myriad options to progress at your own pace, and to challenge yourself when the time comes. We are lucky to enjoy the downtown convenience of Brennan’s Wave, the variety and challenge of Alberton Gorge, and the stunning wilderness and clear water of the Blackfoot. We never take these nearby world-class sections of river for granted, and take great pride in sharing them with beginning and experienced paddlers alike.

We have several options for kayaking in Missoula: Private Lessons, 2 Day Intro Classes, Hourly Lessons. If whitewater hard shell kayaking is not your thing, then check out our Scenic Kayak Tours which don’t require any experience. 

All experts were once beginners once, so what are you waiting for? Start your journey as a kayaker today!

HOURLY INSTRUCTION

Hourly lessons are available anytime, any day, 365 days of the year.

Private Kayak Instructions

Your instructor will work with you to find out where your skills are and create a lesson plan.

2 DAY INTRO CLINIC

Learn how to kayak “sunny side up” by signing up for a 2 day introductory kayaking clinic.

Kayaking FAQ

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Cancellation Policy
As long as you cancel 48 hours or more before the scheduled date of your trip, you will receive a full refund. Refunds will not be issued for cancellations made within 48 hours of a trip’s scheduled departure time. ZTS reserves the right to cancel a trip at any time due to unsuitable or unsafe weather or river conditions. If ZTS is forced to cancel a trip, you will be notified immediately and a full refund or alternate booking will be arranged.
Do I need any kayak experience prior to taking a ZTS class or lesson?
The answer is NO! We teach all levels of kayaking from beginner to advanced. We love beginners!
Do I need my own kayak?
No, but if you have one, feel free to bring it!
Will I be upside down if I'm learning how to whitewater kayak?

Yes! One of the first skills we work on is underwater comfort. Getting comfortable upside down in your kayak is an essential precursor to learning the sport.

How do you decide where we’ll go and what we’ll do in a lesson?
Our full day lessons are designed to meet you at your skill level and promote your learning and progress. Feel free to talk to us about your goals (and hopes and dreams) when you call us to book a lesson!
What type of gear should I bring for a kayak lesson?

Booties or river sandals, sunscreen, earplugs, reusable water bottle, non-bulky synthetic layers like nylon, poly, or fleece (anything but cotton), swimsuit, dry clothes for after your lesson, and snacks.