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Sea Star Wasting Disease - 2019 Update
Published On 9/13/2019
News from Our Conservation Chair, Gary Luhm
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Short Boat Surfing Fun
Published On 7/20/2018
Short boat surfing
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First Date with a Yeti
Published On 6/14/2018
On the weekend of (6/9-6/10) we had the first 2 day clinic for YETI (Youth Experiential Training Institute). This program is in collaboration with the WKC who has generously provided funds to support and help disadvantaged youth experience the activity that we love.
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WKC Bids Farewell to One of Its Founders, Tom Steinburn
Published On 5/17/2018
Tom began his association with Wolf Bauer and the Washington Foldboat Club (later the Washington Kayak Club). Kayaking was in its infancy at the time and Tom joined other club members in pioneering many runs down rivers in the Seattle area that are still used today. That pioneering spirit led to even more adventurous runs farther afield like the Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers in northern Nevada and Idaho. The pioneers also turned to sea kayaking and made the first trips to the west coast of Vancouver Island and other BC destinations. These initial trips led to many more, and Tom almost invariably planned one or more each summer for years, introducing newcomers to the sport.
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Congratulations 2018 Beginner Whitewater Course Graduates!
Published On 5/16/2018
The WKC beginner whitewater was another huge success! This year we taught the course in April because a lot of the instructors and some helpers were floating the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon during March. Teaching in April has its challenges with the heavy rains in the northwest, but we persevered and didn’t have to reschedule any river days.
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February 2018 Newsletter
Published On 2/17/2018
WKC newsletter
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A Kayak Paddle Christmas Story 2017
Published On 1/8/2018
Paddling on Lake Union with the Argosy Ships
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2017 December Newsletter
Published On 12/16/2017
December Newsletter
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November 2017 Newsletter
Published On 11/16/2017
November 2017 Newsletter
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October 2017 Newsletter
Published On 10/14/2017
October 2017 Newsletter
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September 2017 Newsletter
Published On 9/9/2017
September Newsletter
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2017 July WKC Newsletter
Published On 7/16/2017
July Newsletter
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2017 Memorial Day Weekend at Solduc
Published On 6/22/2017
Trip report from 2017 Memorial Day Weekend at Solduc
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Shenanigans on the Solduc
Published On 6/22/2017
Shenanigans on the Solduc
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2017 June WKC Newsletter
Published On 6/22/2017
June WKC Newsletter
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WKC May 2017 Newsletter
Published On 5/13/2017
WKC May Newsletter
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April WKC Newsletter
Published On 4/13/2017
April WKC Newsletter
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March WKC Newsletter
Published On 3/10/2017
March WKC Newsletter
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February Newsletter
Published On 2/8/2017
February WKC Newsletter
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January WKC Newsletter
Published On 1/12/2017
January 2017 WKC Newsletter
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October WKC Newsletter
Published On 10/13/2016
October WKC Newsletter
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Hobuck Hoedown 2016
Published On 10/12/2016
The hard rain began at 4:45 Saturday morning, but it did little to dampen the spirits of the crew at this year’s Hobuck Hoedown Paddle Surf Festival.
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August WKC Newsletter
Published On 8/10/2016
August WKC Newsletter
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July WKC Newsletter
Published On 7/17/2016
July WKC Newsletter
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May Newsletter
Published On 5/2/2016
May WKC Newsletter
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Pilings Removed: Lower Snoqualmie River
Published On 9/11/2015
King Co. did the boating community a favor in August by removing some dangerous pilings in the lower Snoqualmie River.
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The Goodtimes Project Needs Your Help
Published On 5/3/2014
The Goodtimes Project is a non-profit organization that provides kayak camping trips to young adult cancer patients, helping to re-build confidence after surviving months of painful treatments. This year, the Kayak Adventure Camp has lost funding from the American Cancer Society. Please make a donation and help young cancer survivors paddle the San Juan Islands this summer.
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San Juan Preservation Trust is Requesting Volunteers for Spring Season
Published On 5/1/2014
Bella French from the San Juan Preservation Trust is requesting volunteers for the spring season. Please join her stewardship team and sign-up for volunteer work days scheduled between April and June.
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Washington Water Trails Annual Dinner and Online Auction: April 10-24
Published On 3/29/2014
WWT is holding its annual auction from April 10, 2014 to April 24, 2014, with the live event taking place on April 26, 2014 at the Elk's Club in Ballard. Proceeds go to Washington Water Trails Association to support ongoing efforts to create and manage more watertrail sites.
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Port Angeles Kayak & Film Festival: April 12-13
Published On 3/29/2014
Two days, 16 classes, 9 speakers, 4 films. This is the only event like it in the country, highlighting and promoting ALL categories of paddling, from sea and lake to river and surf. At the Port Angeles Kayak & Film Festival can you learn about kayak fishing, take an Eskimo rolling class, get educated on tides and currents, learn how to land your craft in surf, watch remarkable films of folks doing amazing feats, and see legendary explorer Chris Duff speak about his expeditions!
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2014 WKC Advanced Sea Kayaking Class Offered in July
Published On 3/29/2014
The 2014 Advanced Sea Kayaking Class will be offered in 8 sessions; from July 9 to July 20. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your sea kayaking skills and judgment. Topics covered will include efficient paddling and boat handling techniques, effective bracing and capsize recovery skills, including the Eskimo roll. Instruction begins in the classroom, moves to the pool, and ends in Deception Pass. Space is limited. Sign-up today.
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Let’s Go Boating! Catching the Paddling Bug in the 2014 WKC Beginner White Water Kayaking Class
Published On 3/29/2014
Shanna, Matt & Nicole share their experiences teaching the 2014 WKC Beginner White Water Kayaking Class last month. They provide insight about what is new, what made the program unique, what worked, and the tradition they hope to create by having recent graduates support new students, as they develop their white water skills together.
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Steven’s Safety Corner
Published On 3/29/2014
Steven Exe provides tips for preparing for your first spring whitewater run. Making sure your throw bag is in good condition is a smart first step. It is also a good idea to fine tune your roll at one of the many pool sessions offered through the WKC.
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Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus)
Published On 3/29/2014
An article and photograph from Gary Luhm about the Marbled Murrelet, the third bird in his series of birds and mammals often encountered on the water by WKC paddlers.
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WKC Mukilteo to Whidbey trip report
Published On 3/16/2014
trip report for a a planned Mukilteo to Whidbey Island paddle.
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Whitewater Program to Start WKC 2014 Season
Published On 2/1/2014
Friday, Feb 28 at the S. Bellevue Community Center
14509 SE Newport Way, Bellevue
Tailgate party in the parking lot starts at 6pm.
The program inside starts at 7pm.
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Nautical Charts Moving into Digital Age
Published On 2/1/2014
The ‘bad news’ is that as of April 13, 2014, the federal government will stop lithographic printing of NOAA’s nautical charts. This is a direct result of the federal government tightening its budget belt across all sectors and departments. The ‘good news’ is that this is not the end of paper nautical charts!
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From East to West, kayaking's still the best
Published On 12/5/2013
Every year, accompanied by my friend John from Kayak East, I went on a three-day weekend kayaking trip to St. Michael's. Just a few hours drive from New Jersey, this tiny island offers great paddling opportunities. The quaint town has your all-American street, full of cute shops, great restaurants, and a maritime museum not to be missed. Inns and B&Bs are scattered along, a few with their own private access to the water.
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First Descents Vertical Challenge
Published On 6/27/2013
Wrap-up from Team Nor'westers on their fundraiser
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An Amazing Day in Deception Pass
Published On 6/27/2013
WKC Paddlers surf and play in Deception Pass.
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WKC Sea Kayak Basic Class
Published On 5/31/2013
We had a very successful Class May 17-19
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Instruction

Congratulations 2018 Basic Sea Kayaking Course Graduates!
Published On 6/13/2018
Congratulations ...
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Congratulations Class of 2017 Basic SK Course Graduates!
Published On 6/22/2017
Class of 2017 Basic SK
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2015 WW Basic Class
Published On 4/21/2015
The Whitewater Basic Class was a great success again this year from 2/28 thru 3/21. Lots of learning, experience, and growth seemed to occur for all – students, instructors, and helpers alike.
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Trip report

Blake Island
Published On 11/8/2019
Blake Island Trip Report
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Chilko
Published On 9/13/2019
Trip report
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Deschutes Self Support
Published On 8/31/2019
Trip Report
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Cispus River
Published On 7/31/2019
Cispus River Trip Report
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Chiwaukum Creek
Published On 6/29/2019
Trip Report for Chiwaukum Creek
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Jarbidge/Bruneau
Published On 5/22/2019
The Jarbidge (a Shoshone word meaning “monster” or “devil”) is a privilege, primarily for self-supporting kayakers with solid paddling skills and willingness to portage fully loaded boats through the land of poison ivy and rattlesnakes. The stunning deep narrow canyon through the Southwestern Idaho desert, combined with the exciting whitewater, made the four-day Jarbidge/Bruneau trip priceless.
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Team Petty Adventure - Statlu Creek and Chehalis River
Published On 4/12/2019
On March 30, 2019, twenty-eight boaters gathered at the Chehalis River Campground in British Columbia. One third of the group was the WKC crew, and the rest were the Vancouver Whitewater Club (VWC), to which I also belong. There is no gauge published on the internet, but there is a stick gauge at the take-out. On the beautiful sunny Saturday morning, the water was at 9.3m. It was at the lower end, but some Vancouver folks had been running the river at that level the last few days.
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Wiener Roast 2019
Published On 3/24/2019
Despite the low water, the cold weather, or the put-in blockage, a fearless wiener roasters – on 11 hard-shell kayaks, a tandem canoe and a solo canoe - gathered on Saturday, March 2, to run the Skykomish from the Big Eddy to Sultan, Class 2.
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Thanks for 20 Years!
Published On 1/10/2019
Thank you, WKC!
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Opening Day of Boating Season 2019 - Cispus River
Published On 12/14/2018
Opening Day trip on the Cispus River!
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Team Petty Adventure – Metolius
Published On 10/25/2018
Occasionally, people describe a river as a “gem”. For me, no river is more gem-worthy than the Metolius. Its headwater bubbles up from the ground; crystal clear cold water creates a small pool and starts the river. This spring water guarantees enough water for boating even in the dry months of the year.
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Y.E.T.I. Students Circumnavigate Vashon
Published On 10/24/2018
Over Labor Day weekend Y.E.T.I. students took on the challenge of circumnavigating Vashon Island, kayaking 30 miles in four days. The students began preparing for the trip the weekend before by participating in a kayaking skills day, put on by the Washington Kayak Club. Volunteers taught our student how to do a wet exit, T-Rescue, and how to improve their stroke.
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Turn Island
Published On 10/24/2018
Turn Island Trip Report
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Snoqualmie River Trip
Published On 9/27/2018
My name is Karen Heath, and I currently live in Warner Robins, GA, (about the middle of the state of GA). Never having paddled whitewater west of the Mississippi, I feel as if I am the luckiest person in the world! I had an opportunity in late August to make a trip west to Washington state to see family who live right on the Snoqualmie River.
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Turn and Shaw Island
Published On 9/27/2018
Day 1 we launched from Lopez Island and paddled up the coast to cross to Turn Island. It was one of the most fun crossings I’ve had. There was a lot of confused water and good conversation on the way. Upon landing on Turn, we discovered that Tina’s raccoon fears were real.
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Green River thru the Gates of Lodore
Published On 8/30/2018
In August we drove to the East side of Utah to run down the Green River thru the Gates of Lodore. There was smoke in the air all the way across eastern Wa, Idaho and some in Utah as well.
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Tieton River - September 15
Published On 8/29/2018
The annual end-of-summer run is upon us – woot woot! It’s called the Annual Flip-Flop when the Bureau of Reclamation begins releasing water from Rimrock Lake through the Tieton Dam in Yakima County, to aid in successful spawning and incubation of the Chinook salmon eggs in the Yakima Basin, it also helps serve irrigation interests downstream, which in turn provides good boating through much of September. It usually begins Labor Day weekend and they slowly increase the release throughout the month, hitting the peak near September 15th.
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South Fork of the Salmon Self-Support
Published On 7/21/2018
Having heard the South Fork of the Salmon is fantastic whitewater, this river had been on my bucket list for a few years. Rated Class 4-5, it was more challenging than other multi-day trips I had done, and I wanted to go with someone who is familiar with the run.
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Illinois River Self-Support Trip
Published On 5/17/2018
The Illinois River in Oregon had been on my bucket list for a few years. As this is a challenging Class 4 32-mile stretch, we were aiming for the optimal 1000-1500 CFS range and a nice warm weather. Bill Petty, Doug Nicholson, Bob Metzger and I chose April 20 as our launch date and headed to Grants Pass, OR the day before. Bill has run the river about 10 times, Doug has several times, Bob once about 20 years ago, and this was my first.
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Nisqually River Clean-up
Published On 5/11/2018
Clean-up Summary
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Team Petty Adventure: Humptulips
Published On 12/16/2017
The Olympic Peninsula is known for its rain, but whenever I go to the Humptulips Narrows (Class 3), it is sunny, and my fourth visit to this river on November 18, 2017 was no exception.
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Lumpy Waters Wrap-up
Published On 10/14/2017
Lumpy Waters Wrap-up
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Team Petty Adventure: British Columbia 2017
Published On 10/14/2017
This is our fearless leader Bill Petty’s 40th year of paddling. He has been leading annual whitewater road trips to British Columbia almost every year for the past 28 years, and BC continues offering endless rivers he has never run. To paddle unknown rivers again this year, the Team headed to the northern capital of Prince George this time.
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Vancouver Island Whitewater Road Trip
Published On 5/12/2017
Jennie, Bill, and I packed Jennie’s van “Morris” and left for the Vancouver Island on Thursday, April 13 to join the Vancouver Kayak Club’s annual trip to the island.
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Team Petty Adventure - Dungeness
Published On 3/10/2017
After heavy mid-week rain, the Dungeness was higher than we liked on Friday, February 17, 2017. Changing plans, Bill, Doug, Pete, John T from Canada, and I ran the Park to Riverside section of the Sol Duc. John had to leave, but the rest of us camped there and drove back to the Dungeness on Saturday, February 18. Claire, Lora, and Josh from Poulsbo joined us at the Dungeness Hatchery.
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Team Petty Adventure – New Year’s OP 2017
Published On 1/12/2017
This fall/winter season, the Olympic Peninsula hasn’t been very cooperative. Jon Almquist’s Humptulips and SF Calawah trips had to relocate, as well as Team Petty’s Thanksgiving Humptulips trip. This trip wasn’t an exception. Captain Bill Petty, Doug, and I took the Kingston ferry and camped next to the Sol Duc River near Forks on Thursday, December 29.
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Team Petty Adventure – Thanksgiving OP 2016
Published On 12/9/2016
When the Team finished the annual Thanksgiving Day Lower Green Gorge run, Captain Bill Petty decided to change the plan. We were originally supposed to meet at the Humptulips and run the Narrows section, but it had been raining and was forecasted to rain a lot more.
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Yampa and Green River, Utah
Published On 12/9/2016
In mid-July of 2016, at the very end of the runnable water level, a group of friends and family floated the Yampa River for 6 days in sunshine. The Yampa is on the eastern edge of Utah, is free flowing, and joins the Green River to become the Green through Dinosaur National Park.
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New WW Run: Middle Fork Snoqualmie
Published On 12/9/2016
The paving of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie road has added a new pleasure to our local outdoor access. The road that used to be ugly with potholes, is now a smooth paved slide glide upstream. A few different access points for put-ins are present, but there are few.
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Halloween Paddle & Poker Party
Published On 10/31/2016
Halloween Paddle and Poker Party
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Advanced Skills Development & Wilderness Camping Class: June 2016
Published On 9/14/2016
All in all, with the currents and weather we had it was probably the best Advanced Skills Development & Wilderness Camping class I have been in over the 10 years of doing this. The conditions were great for all kinds of challenges and learning experiences for all.
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Team Petty Adventure: British Columbia 2016
Published On 9/13/2016
On August 4, Bill, Larry, and I hit the road and boated the Class 3 section of the Coquihalla. I had run it with more water in the spring of last year, but it felt much steeper this time, as all features were more exposed.
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Owyhee River: Rome to Birch Creek
Published On 8/10/2016
Owyhee River end of April, 2016, Rome to Birch Creek. I have tried for years to get on this river section, and always it fell thru, usually because the water level was wrong. The past two years it barely ran in the hundreds for the Spring season.
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Down River Play Clinic
Published On 4/27/2016
Play the river as we go.. practicing lining up and timing moves on known features, working on using eddies to break rapids up into boat-scoutable chunks of fun!
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San Juan 7 - Cypress Island
Published On 3/21/2016
San Juan 7 Challenge,
We launch at 8:05 am on a beautiful 37degree morning under
bright sunny skies from Young's Park on the north end
of Guemes Island. Headed west then south paddling down
Bellingham Channel towards the south end of Cypress Island.
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Outdoor Adventures First Aid/CPR Training for Kayakers
Published On 3/3/2016
If you've never been to Index, a little town on the Skykomish River, you'll have to visit it next time you want or need to take a short road trip, put in for a WW adventure, go fishing for salmon and/or steelhead, spend the night in a haunted hotel, or just have lunch at a rustic cafe on the river run by Bill and Karen Corson.
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Team Petty Adventure - Lower Dosewallips
Published On 3/3/2016
On Friday, February 12, 2016, Captain Bill Petty, Pete, Doug, and I headed to the Dosewallips. Our original plan of running the Hamma Hamma was postponed due to the high water combined with our unfamiliarity with the river. Because three of us had just run the Lower Dosewallips on last New Year’s Eve, we thought it wouldn’t be too bad. A Port Angeles boater Colin joined us at the take-out, Dosewallips State Park.
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SF Calawah Adventure
Published On 12/3/2015
On Sunday, November 8, Fearless Leader Jon Almquist took four courageous kayakers to the South Fork of the Calawah. As the trip description claimed this run as “rarely-seen class III+ gem in Olympic National Park,” and American Whitewater says, “This is one of the best runs suitable for intermediate boaters in the Park,” I have been interested in this almost-annual trip since I joined WKC in 2012.
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Matheny Creek Weekend
Published On 11/29/2015
Whitewater Kayaking in the Olympic Peninsual at it's best! Matheny Creek bound for some adventurous kayakers ready to experience some amazing scenery and fun whitewater.
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Wynoochee Humptulips Weekend
Published On 11/8/2015
On Oct 10-11, a lucky number of us (13) enjoyed a fantastic weekend of paddling and camping on the southern Olympic Peninsula.
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Team Petty Adventure: Bridge River
Published On 11/8/2015
Stats: Tuesday, September 29, 2015, Class III+ - IV (V), Medium level flow, 16.5 miles, 9 hours from put-in to take-out, 5 kayakers, 6 swims, 1 broken paddle followed by a 30-minute struggle to assemble a 4-piece paddle, numerous scouting, a few portages including one over a high cliff, and an extremely difficult takeout climbing out the 100 feet sandy cliff.
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Team Petty Adventure: Oregon
Published On 11/3/2015
Water-deprived in this area, Captain Bill Petty took the Team (Doug, Larry, Andy, and me) to Oregon in search of runnable rivers.
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Skookumchuck Surf: Class III-IV
Published On 10/1/2015
A crew of whitewater boaters ventured north to Canada to visit the infamous Skookumchuck Rapids, to find out what all the hoopla was about. The Skookumchuck Narrows is located on the Sunshine Coast of B.C. and takes about 6 hours to get there from Seattle, which also includes a 40 minute ferry ride through some of the most gorgeous scenery.
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WKC Club Trip - White Salmon Weekend (Aug 1-2, 2015)
Published On 9/11/2015
A WKC fun-filled weekend on the White Salmon with a great crew! Thanks Ken Stallman for leading the annual club trip to Southwestern Washington. We usually try to hit the White Salmon on Labor Day weekend, but with the lack of water in Western Washington, we were all drooling to get on some whitewater sooner rather than later.
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Lummi Island Trip and Sterling Kayak Demo
Published On 8/1/2015
On May 16th 16 WKC paddlers set paddle around Lummi Island. For a special treat, Sterling Donaldson dropped off Five of his beautiful kayaks for us to try out that day.
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Swiftwater Rescue with Casey Garland
Published On 4/18/2015
Fourteen paddlers attended the first Swiftwater Course of the season, taught by Casey Garland. The in-the-river portion of the class was taught at the Cedar River at Landsburg, and we spent lots of time in the water.
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Discovery Bay: Winter Paddle
Published On 2/5/2015
After spending some time recently in Sequim and Port Townsend, I realized I had never paddled Discovery Bay. This is a beautiful, protected body of water with few public places to launch boats - which means no boat traffic. It is a perfect spot for a winter paddle.
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Winter Break Paddle Orcas Island Trip Report
Published On 1/6/2015
Very convenient to rent cabins at West Beach Resort which was our salt water launch spot for Saturday's trip along the west side of Orcas Island.
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Hood Canal Salmon and Winter Bird Watching Paddle
Published On 12/9/2014
The winter birds have returned, the salmon have begun their migration upstream, and power boats are tethered and dry-docked for the winter. Grab your camera and binoculars and join us on the quieter side of the Salish Sea to enjoy nature’s bounty.
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God's Pocket
Published On 12/8/2014
Five paddle pals and I explored the north end of Vancouver Island for seven days last August. We traveled from Port Hardy to Cape Sutil and back while circumnavigating Nigei Island. This area is becoming a very popular place to paddle, and for good reason. It is easily accessible, the scenery is magnificent, and the paddling is fairly protected from the large swell of the outer coast. One must be prepared for windy and rainy conditions. Fortunately we did not encounter much wind or rain. Hopefully this trip report will help you plan your own excursion.
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Lake Crescent: Winter Kayaking
Published On 12/8/2014
Lake Crescent is a deep, glacially created lake known for its brilliant blue, clear water. It is located in the Olympic National Park, approximately 17 miles west of Port Angeles, Washington on Route 101. It is about a 2 1/2- 3 hour drive from Seattle, including a scenic ride on the Bainbridge ferry. This is a great winter paddle to consider, when conditions at the coast become too rough.
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San Juan River Trip
Published On 9/12/2014
A group of river folks that ran the Main Salmon last year together, had so much fun, that we did another river this year. 9 teens and 8 adults headed to the San Juan River in S. Utah about the middle of August.
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La Push 7 Day Coastal Paddle
Published On 9/3/2014
Paddled with a group of WKC (Washington Kayak Club) friends launching at the Quileute River Marina in La Push WA. We paddled to Mosquito Cove some 11 miles to the south, which was our intended campsite. Fog... lots of sea fog in the mornings and fairly brisk winds in the 15-25k range in the afternoons for most of this trip, highlight was loads of warm sunshine each and every day.
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Lake Chelan Shakedown
Published On 8/9/2014
Lake Chelan has long been on my list of kayaking adventures. This summer, I finally had the time and weather window to make this trip happen. I checked in with Dave Ortland, WKC President, shortly before departing. I let him know I was heading to Lake Chelan. I would load my kayak onto the ferry and ride to Stekehin, then paddle 50 miles back to Chelan. Simple lake with lots of campsites. No big deal, right? He indicated there was a very good chance I would not make it.
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Paddling Panama’s Pacific Coast - The Gulf of Chiriqui
Published On 8/8/2014
Mandatory non-disclosure agreement.
This article reveals little known exotic locations for epic kayaking yet to be developed or even much populated. By reading this information you promise to do your utmost to maintain their confidentiality... and get there someday soon. That being said, check this out.
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Nisqually River Delta Paddle
Published On 7/5/2014
June 14, 2014 day trip with Tomas Tabisola along the Nisqually Delta.
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San Juan Island Exploration and Whale Hunt
Published On 6/8/2014
I’ll cut right to the chase: On Saturday we were surrounded by orcas. In addition, this trip was about islands, currents, wildlife, tide pools, flowers, beaches, peaceful solitude, and spam.
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The Rush of Whitewater
Published On 6/8/2014
Mike shares images and experiences from recent whitewater trips
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Canyon Creek White Water Trip Report
Published On 5/14/2014
Kanako Iwata-Eng shares her experience hiking to, then kayaking Class II to III sections of Canyon Creek, near Masonic Park on May 4, 2014.
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Weekend in Willapa Bay
Published On 5/6/2014
Dave Ortland shares stories and images from a weekend kayaking in Willapa Bay.
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Trip Report: Grey Whales sighted off Hat Island
Published On 4/7/2014
We ran across a couple of the Big Ones while bouncing around in wind and waves.
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Gulf Island Trip
Published On 9/17/2012
Steve Harris' Gulf Island Trip was about as good as it gets
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Nisqually River Cleanup 2022
Published On 4/14/2022
I wanted to thank you for your support of the Nisqually River Cleanup that took place on Saturday, April 2, 2022 and give you a recap of what occurred. This was our third major cleanup of the river, following previous cleanups in 2018 and 2019. Now that the Covid-19 pandemic appears to be subsiding, we hope this will become an annual event.
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Sewer Pipes, Coal, and the Green River
Published On 2/14/2022
The group passes travels through 40 million years of history. Capped by warm sunshine and surfing
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test
Published On 2/13/2022
test article
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Opening Day of Boating 2022
Published On 1/6/2022
Opening day of boating 2022
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Throw Bags and Waterskiing - Cispus River Trip
Published On 5/10/2021
Throw Bags and Waterskiing on the Cispus River Trip May 8, 2021
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Announcement

2019 Hobuck Hoedown Surf Festival Results
Published On 11/7/2019
2019 Hobuck Hoedown Surf Festival Results
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Turn and Shaw Island
Published On 8/31/2019
Trip Report
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2018 WKC Total Trips & Paddlers
Published On 1/10/2019
2018 WKC Total Trips & Paddlers
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2018 Hobuck Hoedown Results
Published On 10/25/2018
2018 Hobuck Hoedown Results
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SK Trip Leaders Needed!
Published On 4/13/2017
SK Trip leaders needed...prize awarded!
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Volunteers at Northwest Paddlefest Needed!
Published On 4/13/2017
We need experienced sea kayaker's willing to teach new paddlers the basics...
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NW Paddling Festival Needs Volunteers
Published On 3/9/2017
NW Paddling Festival Needs Volunteers. Contact Joan Collins to sign up!
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December WKC Newsletter
Published On 12/9/2016
December Newsletter
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November WKC Newsletter
Published On 11/10/2016
November Newsletter
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Seven Rivers Challenge
Published On 11/6/2016
We launched the Seven Rivers Challenge in April to encourage our members to run the seven rivers that are less frequently run by our members – Nisqually, Nooksack, Sauk, Sol Duc, Stillaguamish, Wenatchee and White Salmon.
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Sunset Falls, SF Sky hydro diversion
Published On 11/5/2016
Even if you don't plan to run Sunset Falls, this is a project you want to comment on. Time is of the essence. Please. Please write to the Sno PUD Commissioners, letters to the Sno County Herald Editor are good too. Copy, click, paste. Done.
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The MaST Center’s 2016-17 Schedule
Published On 11/5/2016
The MaST Center is located near the Redondo Beach Park in Des Moines, WA and offers a unique waterfront laboratory and classroom in the lower Puget Sound.
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Volunteers Needed for Cleaning Cedar River Slalom Site! 10/29
Published On 10/17/2016
Come help us whack some blackberries and repair or replace some wires and gates so the site is ready for the Final Slalom Race of the season in early November.
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September WKC Newsletter
Published On 9/15/2016
September WKC Newsletter
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Nigel Foster Directional Control Class: Oct 8
Published On 9/13/2016
Nigel Foster will be teaching a Directional Control class on Saturday Oct. 8th.
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Nigel Foster Directional Control Class: Oct 8
Published On 9/13/2016
Nigel Foster will be teaching a Directional Control class on Saturday Oct. 8th.
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WW Kayak Instructor Development Workshop
Published On 7/17/2016
Interested in sharing your passion for whitewater kayaking with others? Consider becoming an ACA Certified Kayak Instructor. Mo Bergmann and Quinn Daily are teaching an instructor certification workshop in Bend, Oregon August 19th - August 23rd.
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Team Petty Adventure - St. Joe
Published On 6/10/2016
For the Memorial Day weekend, Captain Bill Petty led the Team to Idaho’s panhandle near Avery to run the St. Joe and nearby rivers. Bill, Doug, Ken and I got there on Thursday, May 26 and found a free campsite on the river, five miles above the Tin Can Campground.
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June Newsletter
Published On 6/10/2016
June WKC Newsletter
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Congratulations WKC Basic Class of 2016 Graduates!
Published On 6/9/2016
We had 27 students and 5 helpers in the kitchen and 11 volunteer instructors. The class went great with Friday night’s demonstrations on Paddle’s, Boat’s, how to load a kayak on a car to fitting of dry suits.
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Nisqually River - 7 River Challenge
Published On 4/27/2016
With its origin on the slopes of Mt. Rainier. The river runs along the Fort Lewis Military Reservation and mature forests border both sides of the river. Wildlife and birds can be seen along this section of the river.
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Port Angeles Kayak & Film Festival
Published On 4/12/2016
Paddlers and adventure film buffs will be treated to tales of hair raising adventure, wildlife encounters, self-sufficiency and lessons learned in a keynote presentation by awe-inspiring expedition kayaker and adventure filmmaker Justine Curgenven at the Port Angeles?Kayak & Film Festival, on Saturday, April 23 at 7 p.m.
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April WKC Newsletter
Published On 4/12/2016
April Newsletter
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Possession Sound Whale Hunt: March 19
Published On 4/11/2016
On March 19, the Vernal Equinox this year, I led my annual whale hunting trip out of Mukilteo On this occasion the famous grey whale Patch hunted us instead. Fifteen paddlers set out on a lovely calm day from the new park next to the Boeing pier in Mukilteo. I like to take a lot of paddlers because some are needed for whale bait. It works.
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Washington Kayak Club Cedar River Race Results
Published On 4/11/2016
Over 20 paddlers enjoyed paddling and improving their paddling skills practicing on the slalom gates on the Cedar River on Saturday. A great crew of volunteers fixed up our permanent course the weekend before including whacking a ton of blackberries out of the way.
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2016 NW WHITEWATER SLALOM CUP
Published On 3/14/2016
The Northwest Slalom Cup continues with highly valuable points awarded at each race. The best 6 out of 8 race results are totaled for fabulous awards. Come out and compete or just learn some whitewater slalom moves and have some fun!
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March WKC Newsletter
Published On 3/6/2016
March WKC Newsletter
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Upcoming Nigel Foster SK Lessons
Published On 3/5/2016
Kayaking classes with Nigel Foster are an ideal way to prepare for the approaching paddling season and to develop your paddling techniques.
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It's Always Sunny on the Cispus
Published On 2/22/2016
The lower Cispus River is a beautiful class II-III whitewater run passing through old growth forests and open vistas. Spirited and playful, the river keeps accomplished kayakers happy and provides a safe challenge to beginning boaters. However, currently a dark silence is falling as a generation of boaters endured a twenty-year struggle to use this river.
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February Newsletter
Published On 2/17/2016
February Newsletter
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Helper Training Day!
Published On 2/10/2016
What a fun day at the pool, followed by a session on the Snoqualmie River Powerhouse section. The goal for the day was to train the helpers who have volunteered to assist with the 2016 WKC Whitewater Kayaking Course. It also gave the instructors the opportunity to refresh our memories and try out new teaching techniques.
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Team Petty Adventure - New Year's OP
Published On 2/5/2016
I had the best time bringing in the New Year in 2016 – I joined Bill Petty, Kanako, and crew for a class II/II+ adventure weekend on the north Olympic Peninsula. A perfect location for me now that I live in Sequim. A perfect level of difficulty for me, since I haven’t really kayaked in over two years.
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Seven Rivers Challenge
Published On 2/4/2016
WKC members who participate in club trips to the seven designated rivers will receive collective paddle/boat stickers designed by a whitewater kayaker and artist Zeus Rudner.
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Grand Canyon Weighted Lottery for Non-Commercial River Trips
Published On 2/3/2016
Grand Canyon Weighted Lottery for Non-Commercial River Trips (self-guided) on the Colorado River starting at Lee’s Ferry. 225 miles of fantastic scenery, breath-taking hikes, and fun whitewater.
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Team Petty Adventure – Lower Matheny
Published On 1/7/2016
Captain Bill Petty led the team to the Southern Olympic Peninsula on his annual Thanksgiving weekend paddle. After running the Humptulips Narrows on Friday and the Middle Matheny Creek on Saturday, we ran the Lower Matheny Creek on Sunday, November 29, 2015.
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Who Ya Gonna Call?
Published On 11/6/2015
If you have an emergency situation on a King Co. River, you are the first to be able to do something about it and get a person out of danger.
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Adjusting River Running to Climate Change
Published On 7/1/2015
My favorite run in our area, of all the choices we have within a reasonable radius, is the lower Green River gorge.
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New Klickitat River Warning Sign
Published On 7/1/2015
This sign was sponsored by the WKC, the River Safety Council, and Mike Grijalva, Andy Gross, and Jerod Bartholomeu.
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Please take this King County survey!
Published On 6/25/2015
As part of an ongoing effort to guide management of rivers, the King County Water and Land Resources Division is conducting a survey of resident attitudes and perspectives on rivers. The short survey explores floods, habitat and recreational use.
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Bo's Last Dive
Published On 6/8/2015
Many of you have volunteered over the years with Team River Runner and know that our paddlers seek out water sports for health and healing purposes. One of our former TRR paddlers, Terry Knight, is using his love of diving as an opportunity to raise some money and bring attention to ALS, a disease that he is, unfortunately, all too familiar with.
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Construction on Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Road
Published On 5/8/2015
An update of construction on Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Road
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Larch Madness
Published On 4/21/2015
Nine paddlers met at Colonial Creek Campground on the morning of October 18, 2014 as the mist was lifting off of Thunder Arm in the North Cascades. We paddled north to Diablo Lake in smooth water and headed east up the channel to visit Horsetail Falls, past vine and bigleaf maples in their autumn colors.
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British Columbia Trip April 4 - 5
Published On 4/12/2015
Led by Bill Petty, Doug Knapp, Jennie Goldberg, Andy Meyers, Chris Knorr and I paddled Statlu Creek (Class 3+) and Chehilis River (Class 3+) on Saturday and Coquihalla River (Class 3) on Sunday.
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San Juan Seven Challenge
Published On 4/11/2015
Picture seven unique and beautiful islands nestled in the Salish Sea. While the first rays of the sun rising in the east strike the golden seas and the snows on Mt. Baker glisten, the paddle blade rhythmically glides through the water. These islands could be your next paddling destination if you decide to accept the San Juan Seven challenge.
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Guemes Island Circumnavigation
Published On 3/5/2015
Seven WKC paddlers spent a beautiful day circumnavigating Guemes Island on Feb 22.
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Klickitat River Safety Concerns
Published On 3/5/2015
The Klickitat River is a wonderful resource that you may want to explore. It requires a drive of about 4+ hrs., but you are then in a lovely valley on the sunny side of the mountains.
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Spring Volunteer Opportunities at SJPT
Published On 2/18/2015
Spring volunteer opportunities are coming up! We hope you can join one of these activities.
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Kayak Polo Players Wanted in Kirkland
Published On 2/7/2015
There is a group of intrepid folks who play kayak polo every wednesday at 6pm in Kirkland, and we need more players. Location is Marsh park at NE 67th and Lake Washington Blvd.
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Our Local Cedar River, Lots of Wood
Published On 2/7/2015
The Cedar River can be accessed in the “Landsburg”area, where gates are hung for the Spring Slalom Race, held each year by our race division of the WKC. This is an excellent place to practice, in a short but challenging class 2 section, complete with surf waves.
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Kayak Fishing
Published On 2/5/2015
Greetings fellow fishermen (women included) and kayakers. This is simply to let you know that WKC has opened a new category within Sea Kayak Trips -- Kayak Fishing. This is for fishermen who like to kayak and kayakers who like to fish. I'm one of the former who learned and enjoyed how to fish at an early age.
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Steve's Safety Corner
Published On 1/6/2015
Welcome to the 2015 Paddling season! The continued mild temperatures and ample precipitation in the Pacific Northwest mean plenty of paddling opportunities to start the New Year.
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New WKC Classifieds Forum
Published On 12/9/2014
There have been slight changes to the WKC website allowing easier access for both members and non-members to view and post to the "classified" forum.
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Cypress Island Surf and Turf
Published On 11/2/2014
An October 3 Sea Kayaking trip around Cypress Island with stops at Pelican Beach and a hike on the Eagle Cliff Trail to the summit lookout
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Cedar River Float
Published On 10/8/2014
A white water trip report from the Cedar River, September 2014
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WKC Luau
Published On 10/8/2014
Two weeks ago on Sept 20 we had an epic event at Hobuck Beach in Neah Bay - the first club Luau and Beach party. Tomas Tabisola prepared an amazing Hawaiian feast including a roast pig. Ineze Arlene and Hilary Barnes helped prepare the side dishes for Tomas' menu. We declare them to be Knights of the WKC for their heroic efforts! At least 40 club members and guests attended and contributed potluck to the feast, music, and camaraderie.
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Volunteers Needed on the Skykomish River: October 18 - 19
Published On 9/27/2014
The whitewater downriver race to select the 2015 National Wildwater Kayak team members will be held on the Skykomish River October 18-19th this year. Safety boaters are needed for the sprint and classic events. The race will start BELOW Boulder Drop and end below Fisherman's. For the classic race (about a 20 minute course), the first racer will start at 10:30 am on Saturday. Since we're not expecting a huge crowd, you could be done by 11:00! You could then play your way down the river. Sprint's (each will take about 2 minutes) will be at Fisherman's Rapid and start at 2:30 pm Saturday. Each racer's second run will start at 3:30 pm. On Sunday there will be sprint runs at Railroad Bridge rapid starting at 10 and then at 11.
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2014 Basic Sea Kayaking Class
Published On 7/5/2014
Led by Rhonda Schawab, the 2014 Basic Sea Kayaking Class graduated after spending 3 days paddling around Deception Pass.
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Swim for Life Needs Volunteers: August 20
Published On 7/4/2014
Imagine restarting an entire immune system, giving even the most leukemia-ravaged body a second chance at a healthy life.
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WWTA Education Series Continues: June 21 to 22 & June 26
Published On 6/8/2014
Two courses will be offered by the WWTA in June: Leave No Trace Trainer Course by Reed Waite and Kayak Forward Stroke Technique with Dan Henderson
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Bird of the Month: Belted Kingfisher
Published On 6/8/2014
A third bird in a series of birds and mammals often encountered on the water by WKC paddlers
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Russell Henry Attempts to Break Speed Record for Circumnavigating Vancouver Island
Published On 6/7/2014
This coming May/June, Russell Henry will make a kayak attempt to break the record for circumnavigating Vancouver Island by human power.
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R.W. Hand Makes Second Attempt: Paddling from California to Hawaii
Published On 6/7/2014
Twenty-seven years ago, Ed Gillet made a self-described “low-key” departure from Monterey, Calif., embarking on what he would later call “the most difficult trip I could conceive of surviving.” Well over 2,200 miles and 63 days later, Gillet landed in Maui and set a new benchmark for sea kayak expeditions. Five days ago, R.W. Hand set out to replicate Gillet’s voyage, leaving from the same harbor, in the essentially the same kayak from the same manufacturer.
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Freya Hoffmeister is One Leg Closer: Circumnavigating South America
Published On 6/7/2014
In August 2011, Freya Hossmeister began her journey around South America by kayak. She began in Bueno Aires and paddled clockwise around Cape Horn, Terra del Fuego, and up the west coast. She has broken the trip into several 8,000 km stages, each lasting 8 months. She just completed the last stage, a bit shy of her final destination due to health issues, but eager to complete the trip after some well deserved rest.
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40th Seattle International Film Festival: DamNation
Published On 5/16/2014
This dynamic investigation into dam removal—including the Glines Canyon and Elwha Dams on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula—positions locals, scientists, politicians, and activists on all sides of the increasingly divisive issue as they battle for control of Earth’s greatest resource.
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Wanatchee River Festival: June 14 - 16
Published On 5/16/2014
The paddling community has come together once again to provide the community a forum to celebrate and inspire one another, as well as raise funds to support American Whitewater, whose mission continues to conserve and restore America's whitewater resources and to enhance opportunities to enjoy them safely.
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Important Announcement: New, Easier Waiver Process Just Released
Published On 5/7/2014
Club Express, our web site provider, has just released a new enhancement that essentially provides for signed waivers during event registration. Our biggest administrative headache is now a thing of the past.
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Botanial Ramblings: Strawberry Island Dreams
Published On 5/5/2014
Linda Cooley shares beautiful images and descriptions of flowers in bloom during her recent kayaking trip to Strawberry and Cypress Island.
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From the Prez
Published On 5/4/2014
Dave Ortland shares his experiences on a recent trip around Cypress Island, with a stop at the spectacular flower show on Strawberry Island. Through challenging weather conditions, combined with varying skill levels within his group, Dave is reminded of the mission of the WKC.
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Blazing Paddles Film Festival: May 29 - 30
Published On 5/3/2014
Come have a fun-filled 'movie night' and ignite your passion for adventure, action, and the wild wet world of paddling! Be exhilarated with amazing big-screen stories at your choice of TWO venues this year: the Black Box Theatre, on the campus of Edmonds Community College in Lynnwood on Thursday, May 29, and at the historic Lincoln Theater in Mount Vernon on Friday, May 30. Both shows run 7-10 p.m
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Northwest Paddling Festival: May 9 - 10
Published On 5/3/2014
The Northwest Paddling Festival is the largest event of its kind. Bringing together paddle sports retailers, manufacturers, and athletes in one location, this is a can’t-miss-event for any paddling enthusiast. More than 60 paddle sports businesses will offer equipment, accessories, and gear to demo. May 9 -10 on Lake Sammamish.
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San Juan Preservation Trust is Requesting Volunteers
Published On 5/3/2014
Bella French from the San Juan Preservation Trust is requesting volunteers for the spring season. Please join her stewardship team and sign-up for volunteer work days scheduled between April and June.
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Inviting Washington Kayak Club Members to Raft Up!
Published On 5/3/2014
Vashon is attempting to set a new world's record for the number of canoes and kayaks rafted up in one place! Join fellow paddlers on August 17 in inner Quartermaster Harbor. Festivities begin August 16 with a music festival and rare chance to camp on Vashon.
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WKC Program: Paddle around Prince of Wales Island, April 24
Published On 4/6/2014
On April 24, Rob Avery will talk about his paddle around Prince of Wales Island at the Mercer Island Library.
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Cedar River Slalom Weekend: May 3 - 4
Published On 4/1/2014
Try your hand at making the moves on the Cedar River Slalom course this spring! An informal slalom weekend on the Cedar River is scheduled May 3 - 4.
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WKC Workshops with Body Boat Blade Provide Valuable Lessons in Leadership
Published On 3/31/2014
WKC President Dave Ortland shares lessons from recent WKC Instructor/Coach and Leadership workshops taught by Shawna and Leon from Body Boat Blade.
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Botanical Ramblings, April 2014
Published On 3/30/2014
According to coastal legend, as spring breaks on the Kitsap Peninsula, tiny frogs begin to sing to awaken the sleeping plants. Linda Cooley shares two blooming plants kayakers may encounter this month, while paddling around the sound near lowland forests; the skunk cabbage and the red flowering current.
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Curriculum Update for ACA Coastal Kayak Instructors
Published On 3/29/2014
The Coastal Kayak Committee proposed changes to the Level 5: Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Criteria and the Level 3: Coastal Kayaking Skills Assessment – and both were approved! See details from Kelsey Bracewell.
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ACA State Director Applications Are Now Being Accepted! Deadline is April 15
Published On 3/29/2014
The ACA is currently seeking volunteers for its new State Director Program. If you are interested in assisting the ACA increase its effectiveness at the state level, this is your chance.
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Kayakers wanted for survivalist tv show
Published On 3/2/2014
I'm working in the casting office for the Discovery Channel survivalist show, "Naked and Afraid" and I wanted to reach out to the Washington kayaking community to see if anyone may want to take part in our show. We're looking for an outdoors-y type who wants to take part in a unique survivalist experience and we wanted to reach out to you and your community so we can find someone who is different from the show's usual contestants and we'd love to have your community represented on the show.
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From the Prez
Published On 2/9/2014
We have lots of good news, including: ACA membership is no longer required for club activities, and our new insurance requirements are much simpler!
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Are you reading our newsletter?
Published On 2/9/2014
Do you read this newsletter? Is it useful to you? Would you prefer a printed, snail mail newsletter? Is there a better way for us to communicate with you? Please take our survey and let us know what you think.
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CPR First Aid Details
Published On 1/21/2014
Here is what the courses offered will cover
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SK Trip Leadership Training
WKC is putting together a 2014 trip leading program
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WW planning party set for Jan. 18
Published On 1/1/2014
Whitewater planning will happen January 18 at 4:30 p.m., at Mike Grijalva's house, 14441 233 Ave SE, Issaquah. There is plenty of parking and Mike will be firing up the sauna so bring a towel (clothing optional). Some people have already started sending me trip dates, thank you!! We have put all of those trips on a planning calendar. Most of these dates are tentative and our hope is to solidify them all at the planning party. If you already know you would like to lead a trip, or two, or three, please email me and I will get you on the calendar. If you only have vague dates right now, not a problem, we can confirm the dates on the 18th. Pizza and salad will be provided, but please BYOB or liquid beverage of choice.
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2014 class and clinic planning now underway
Published On 12/31/2013
Happy New Year WKC paddlers! I think you will find the club will have a lot of exciting paddling opportunities to offer this year. Planning for classes and clinics is underway. Trip planning parties are on the calendar. Even if you are not planning to lead a trip, you are encouraged to attend the party to help plan our explorations and have some fun with your paddle pals. Please register on the calendar if you want to attend, so we can get a head count and plan the refreshments.
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More Pool Play Dates in Tacoma
Published On 12/5/2013
Thanks to the Mountaineers, WKC kayakers have more options to practice and play in the Tacoma pool this coming January into March.
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Botanical ramblings: broad-leaved stonecrop
Published On 12/5/2013
This pretty little ground cover is a common sight to kayakers in Skagit and Island counties where it clings to outcrops, cliffs and coastal bluffs.
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Kayakers learn safety roll technique
Published On 12/4/2013
The Washington Kayak Club’s annual Eskimo Roll Clinic was held this past October at the Evergreen Pool (in Seattle) with some amazing results. Each two-hour Saturday morning session was built around helping kayakers either learn to begin a kayak safety exit roll or finish achieving their roll. Kayakers aged 20 to 65 attended, with 8 to 14 students in each of four sessions.
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Come play in the pool
Published On 12/4/2013
Kayak Pool Play is an opportunity for paddlers of all levels to practice and further develop their skills and safety techniques in a fun, controlled environment. Currently, there are pool sessions in Seattle, Shoreline, Tacoma and Tukwila from now into spring.
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Deception Pass dash 2013
Published On 11/22/2013
Are you brave (or crazy?) enough to do the Deception Pass Dash? No, not crazy because it’s an all out mad-cap six-mile paddling race for all things human powered ~ kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, surf skis, outrigger canoes, racing shells, you name it. Not crazy because it’s paddling through the sly, swirling currents of Deception Pass. Just crazy because it happens in December. But hey - that’s never stopped the 200 or so paddling passionistos and passionistas in the past.
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Report from the 2013 Coastal Clinic
Published On 9/16/2013
This year's WKC Coastal Clinic was held at Hobuck Beach Resort campgrounds just west of Neah Bay.
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Riding San Juan Currents in the Grand Adventure
Published On 8/29/2013
We got a big ride from currents on our way around the San Juan Islands this summer
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Log Jams in the Dungeness River
Published On 5/17/2021
Details regarding long portages due to log jams on the Dungeness.
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Article

2018 Whitewater Trip Planning Party & Paddle
Published On 1/16/2018
What a success, over 85 whitewater trips on the calendar for 2018!
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Fall in the Wall for First Timers
Published On 7/2/2017
Our local Disneyland / Putt-Putt Run!
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Sunny Teanaway River
Published On 5/23/2017
Surf's up on the Sunny Teanaway
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WKC Swiftwater Rescue Course
Published On 4/25/2017
Swiftwater Rescue Course weekend, instructor Casey Garland
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Whitewater Beginner Class a Success!
Published On 3/31/2017
The 2017 WW Class had it's graduation paddle on March 25th on the Upper Middle Snoqualmie River. Our students progressed greatly during the class and had a great day!
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Hands-on Practice: Whitewater Rescues, Helping New Paddlers, Leading
Published On 1/6/2017
Hands-on Practice: Whitewater Rescues, Helping New Paddlers, Leading
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2016 Beginner Whitewater Course!
Published On 3/28/2016
2016 Whitewater Course was a success and a ton of fun with enthusiastic paddlers, crazy weather, great water conditions and of course.. fantastic, friendly, awesome instructors!
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Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani)
Published On 1/7/2016
The Black Oystercatcher is a brownish-black, crow-sized shorebird with a conspicuous orange-red bill and pink legs. Close up, a yellow eye is rimmed in red. Black Oystercatchers are fairly common in rocky shore ocean environments from Alaska to Baja.
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Bird of the Month: Killdeer
Published On 3/11/2015
A bird of mudflat and shore in winter, and parking lots and open fields in summer, the Killdeer is our most common plover, a type of shorebird with short bills and big eyes.
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Changes to Posey Island State Park Campsite Reservations
Published On 1/6/2015
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission would like the boating public to know about changes to campground reservations for Posey Island State Park, a small one-acre marine camping park near Roche Harbor on San Juan Island. The changes go into effect in January.
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Tragedy on Robe Canyon of the South Fork Stillaguamish River
Published On 1/6/2015
On November 30, 2014, renowned kayaker and third year UW medical student Xavier Engle was killed in a tragic kayaking accident in the Robe Canyon of the Stillaguamish River. Engle was known for not only his world class kayaking skills, but also for his varied academic and medical pursuits, his humility and care for the less fortunate, and his intense zest for life. Engle touched deeply the lives of many who knew him.
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Improving Combat Rolls
Published On 12/6/2014
I am not a certified kayak instructor. As a graduate of the WKC Beginner Class in 2012, I don’t have a lot of experience, either. My paddle strokes, boat control, and river reading skills need improvement, and I flip a lot. But I have one skill that often wows my fellow boaters – my combat rolls.
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My First Annual Lumpy Waters Trip
Published On 11/1/2014
I first heard about Lumpy Waters last year when I won a certificate for Basic Skills Sea Kayak Class for Two at a Washington Waters Trail Association Auction Dinner. I saw a video and photos of the Fifth Annual Lumpy Waters Symposium on its website and it looked like everyone was having a great time. I knew immediately I wanted to be part of it.
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Chris Duff Resumes His Epic Trip from Scotland to Iceland
Published On 6/7/2014
After having to call off the trip last year due to weather, Chris resumed his epic paddle from Scotland to Iceland, launching his boat "Northern Reach" from the Faeroe Islands this month. Read more about this trip and track his progress via his website.
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WKC First Aid/CPR class shows latest techniques
Published On 3/2/2014
It seems we here in Washington have more than the Super Bowl Champion Seattle Seahawks to be proud of. From a recent study, King County scored the highest survivability rate for Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) in the nation – 52% in 2012 – while the rest of the country only rated around ten percent.
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How do plastics end up in Puget Sound
Published On 3/2/2014
If you happened to read the Vancouver, British Columbia Sun newspaper last month, you might have noticed an article stating that the waters off the British Columbia coast are awash in minute plastic particles, each about the size of a coffee ground. Research conducted by Peter Ross, a former research scientist with the federal Institute of Ocean Sciences, and his team found a record high of 9,200 particles per cubic meter of ocean (1 cu. meter = 3 cu. feet). That density can increase or decrease, depending on geography and currents. So where do these plastics come from, and are they a threat to ocean organisms and the ocean food web?
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Harlequin Duck
Published On 3/2/2014
The smallish Harlequin duck thrives — like many WKC members — in fast-moving water. Classified as sea ducks, in winter Harlequins are found on intertidal rocks never far from breaking waves. Rushing water is in their DNA.
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Rivers drying up in the West
Published On 3/2/2014
As drought conditions continue across the West, river flows are way down, and likely dropping to un-runable levels by the Spring. I kayaked the Verde River in Arizona in mid-February, and we made it down through the wilderness section with minimal flow of 220 cubic feet per second (cfs). Now I hear that the river level continues to drop and boating is no longer possible.
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WKC member survey summary
Published On 3/2/2014
Thanks to all who answered our survey, we received many valuable comments! Here is a summary of what you told us, with some answers to your queries.
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From the Prez
Published On 3/2/2014
Winter is far from over (see forecast, sigh), so get wet – but stay warm – on the numerous club trips and classes being offered by your fellow club members. Check out our full calendar of paddling events on the website, either under “Events” or “Calendar”! I have been out on the water with many of you already this year and am thrilled to see a lot of new faces.
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50 Whitewater Trips Planned for 2014!
Published On 2/1/2014
The after party was at Mike’s house, where 15 folks gathered to tell stories and plan the whitewater paddling schedule for 2014. And it looks like another full schedule of action trips, and a very complete beginner class.
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President's Message

From the Prez
Published On 9/4/2014
The next meeting of the board is set for Thursday Sept 18, 6:30 PM at the Elliott Bay Brewery in Burien. This will also be the officer’s dinner, where we celebrate those who serve as club leaders. Once we get in a good mood we will install a new board for the next year (meeting September through May), elect new officers, and discuss how to navigate the club’s course over the next year.
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From the Prez
Published On 8/6/2014
One of the missions of WKC is to support conservation efforts related to paddling. We do this through support of American White Water, Washington Water trails Association, and the San Juan Preservation trust. Volunteer participation with these organizations is encouraged.
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Prez Letter
Published On 7/4/2014
Read the July Prez Letter from Dave Ortland
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From the Prez
Published On 6/8/2014
President's message for June 2014
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From the Prez
Published On 3/31/2014
WKC President Dave Ortland discusses recent kayaking events and talks about what WKC members can look forward to in the coming months. He focuses on the importance of leadership development, and how giving back contributes to the success of the club.
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From the Prez
Published On 12/4/2013
I want to express how thankful I am to be a part of the Washington Kayak Club, to have all of you as my paddle pals, and to experience these wonderful coastal areas with you. I also want to express how excited I am about two new endeavors: a trip idea party at Elliot Bay Brewery, and trip leader training!
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August Message from the Prez
Published On 8/8/2013
Message from the Prez
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A word from the Prez
Published On 6/27/2013
President's Message June 2013
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Slalom

2019 WKC Salmon La Sac Whitewater, Slalom & Music Weekend
Published On 5/22/2019
event details
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Try something new - whitewater slalom
Published On 1/1/2012
The Cedar river slalom gates are nearby and this is a very convenient way to try this great whitewater skill-builder.
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WKC Calendar
  
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events