Exclusive 'Members Only' Backcountry Paddling Opportunities

That's right, if you're an ACA member, you can join the ACA staff on either of two incredible excursions in 2010.

• San Juan Islands - Sea Kayaking - Pacific Northwest
• Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande - Canoe Camping - Texas / Mexico Border (space still available)

In cooperation with the host organization, you will be able to paddle with representatives from the ACA National Office, creating a better connection with those working daily on your behalf.  In addition, a percentage of each registration fee goes directly to support the on-going efforts of the ACA on behalf on all paddlers to fulfill our mission of Education, Stewardship, Recreation & Competition.

Now taking requests for 2011 Excursions. Deadline for proposals is September 6th.

Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande

For the first time the ACA will “go tandem” with one of the longest-running outfitters in the country, Burt Kornegay of Slickrock Expeditions, by offering an 8-day paddling adventure through the monumental Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande, in Texas.  Designated a National Wild and Scenic River, and managed by the National Park Service, the Rio Grande enters what are known as the “Lower Canyons” after emerging from Big Bend National Park.  Limestone walls begin to rise out of the stark Chihuahuan Desert, eventually reaching almost 2,000 feet in height, as the river passes through one stunning canyon after another until it reaches a rough take-out known as Dryden’s Crossing, 85 miles downstream. A “pool and drop” river, the Rio Grande will range from quiet water to rapids rated Class I-III. Paddlers should have some river-canoeing experience and know such strokes as the draw, cross draw, and pry, as well as how to perform such basic maneuvers as eddy turns and river ferries.

The Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande are known as “the premier whitewater canoeing trip in Texas,” and those who paddle it earn the title of “Texas River Rats.”

In addition to the paddling, and camping on the riverbank at night, the Lower Canyons offer some of the best hiking anywhere, and we’ll take several side-hikes to explore slot canyons, mesas, and limestone caves.  

Dates: November 21 -28

Cost: $1600 per person

Registration: Contact Slickrock Expeditions (slickrock@dnet.net / 828-293-3999)

*Space in this excursion is extremely limited and filling on a first come - first serve basis.  

Printable Brochure (details on both trips)

San Juan Islands

Video of the 2010 San Juan Islands trip -   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raEHi8ymeNU

We have teamed with ACA Pro School, Outdoor Adventures, to offer a multi-day sea kayaking trip to the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest off the coast of Washington State.  The San Juan Islands are a spectacular and secluded destination known for their natural beauty and relaxed "island time".  The San Juans are regularly included in National Geographic Adventure's Best Places... 

This 5-day trip is customized for the adventurous paddler.  Together, we'll explore the San Juan Islands' uninhabited State Park Islands and pristine coastal environment.  In addition to kayaking, there will be opportunities for hiking, beach combing, exploring, socializing, and relaxing! 

The trip will depart from Spencer Spit State Park on Lopez Island and eventually complete a circumnavigation of Orcas Island.  Midway through the trip, with tides and weather cooperating, we'll paddle through prime Orca Whale territory.  Gourmet meals, wildlife viewing, and kayak camping at its best!

Dates: June 14-18

Cost: $875 per person

Trip specific brochure

Registration: Contact the Outdoor Adventures (info@outdooradventurecenter.com / 800-282-4043) and reference ACA San Juan Excursion