New Mexico Kayak Instruction has been working with Girl Scout troop leaders in Albuquerque since 2006. In 2008, NMKI began working with Girls Scouts of New Mexico Trails (GSNMT) to offer more classes on a regular basis. The interest was so great, that in 2009, GSNMT incorporated a 2-day Whiterock Canyon whitewater kayak adventure through Bandelier National Monument into its High Adventure Arts program, currently scheduled for June 26 - 27, 2010.

While the High Adventure Arts program is for Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors, your girls are encouraged to start kayaking early, build skills and confidence, and earn a few badges along the way. 

All Girl Scout classes are taught using whitewater kayaks. Even if your scouts have prior experience in a kayak, it is recommended they become profficient in a whitewater kayak. Why?  Whitewater kayaks are the most difficult to paddle, even on flat-water. If your girls can paddle a whitewater kayak, they can really fly in a recreational or sea-kayak.

Brownies can earn the Paddle Safely Try-it patch in a 1.5 hour class that stresses safety, fun and games. 

Juniors can earn the Small Craft badge in a 2.5 hour class that emphasizes fun, safety and skills development. After completion of the Small Craft badge, Juniors are eligible for a 1/2 day river trip covering 4 - 6 miles of gentle moving water through Albuquerque's Rio Grande Bosque.

Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors can earn the Paddle, Pole and Roll badge in a 4 hour class that emphasizes refined and efficient strokes in a skirted kayak, simple self- and buddy-assisted rescues, dressing to paddle, kayak storage and maintenance and a variety of rescue scenarios.  After completion of the Paddle, Pole & Roll badge, and the 1/2 day river trip, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors are eligible for a 1-day Intro to Whitewater clinic. After completion of the 1-day Intro to Whitewater clinic, your girls will be ready for the 2-day Whiterock Canyon High Adventure Arts Whitewater Kayaking trip!

If your troop is interested in a class that's not already on our calendar, Contact Us with your request. We'll check the availability of pools and advise you on the best options. The minimum group size is 8 scouts and/or adults, and the Maximum size is 15 scouts and/or adults.