Water Activities Safety at Venture Outdoors / Kayak Pittsburgh
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic paddling skills and good physical condition
Overview
Learn vital rescue skills at North Park Lake with Venture Outdoors / Kayak Pittsburgh's Flatwater Rescue Course—designed to make you safer on the water. Perfect for intermediate paddlers looking to boost confidence and emergency preparedness.
Flatwater Rescue Course
Ages 13+ • Learn how to rescue yourself and others on the water!
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About This Adventure
Join experienced Kayak Pittsburgh Excursionists for an engaging rescue techniques course at North Park Lake. Designed for intermediate paddlers, this hands-on experience covers essential skills like self-rescues and assisted rescues. Enhance your kayaking confidence while learning from certified instructors in a supportive environment, ensuring you're prepared for any adventure on the water.
Come enjoy North Park Lake in the Fall!
Take in the start of the Fall season by water at North Park Lake. This outing is available for paddlers 16 years of age or more with previous paddling experience.
The Outing
-Participants will receive a group safety briefing, then be launched on the water at same time. -Guides will be on the water to assist as needed. Feel free to explore! -Out of respect for other paddlers any participant(s) arriving more than 15 minutes past the trip start time will not be permitted to launch. -Paddlers will return to the dock 15 minutes prior to the scheduled end of the outing to return gear.
Protect your trip with Sensible
Rain or shine, guarantee you have a good time. Add optional rainy-day coverage to your trip and get money back if the weather is less than ideal. Available for bookings more than 3 days in advance. Watch for an email from kayakpittsburgh@ventureoutdoors.org with your rain guarantee booking instructions.
The safety of our customers and staff is of the utmost priority.
- No drugs or alcohol are permitted prior to or during your rental
- Follow all directions of Kayak Pittsburgh staff
- PFDs (lifejackets) are required to be worn properly at all times during your rental
- Wet suits are provided and required to be worn for the duration of the rental
- Windbreakers, neoprene gloves and booties are also available for use
SIZING
- Wetsuit sizing
- Glove Sizing
- Splash Jacket sizing Women's | Men's
- Booties Women's | Men's
- While we do our best to dry the gear between trips some equipment may be damp from a prior outing. All gear is disinfected between uses.
We look forward to seeing you out on the water!
FAQ's regarding Kayak Pittsburgh
Thank you for choosing Venture Outdoors. We make it easy to get outside!
Adventure Tips
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Dress for the water temperature and bring a change of clothes for after the session.
Practice Rescue Techniques Regularly
Review your skills periodically to stay confident in emergency situations.
Pay Attention to Weather Conditions
Ensure water conditions are suitable on the day of the class to maximize safety.
Bring Personal Safety Gear
Always carry a personal flotation device and whistle during practice sessions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Herons
- Eastern Painted Turtles
History
North Park Lake was created in the early 20th century as part of Pittsburgh's urban water management system.
Conservation
Venture Outdoors emphasizes minimal environmental impact by teaching low-impact rescue practices and encouraging Leave No Trace principles.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pittsburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Life Jacket
A well-fitting PFD is crucial for safety during rescue practice.
Dry Clothes
Bring dry, warm clothes for after the session.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Waterproof Bag
Keep your valuables and extra gear dry.
Snacks and Water
Stay hydrated and energized throughout the course.