Youth Kayaking in Akron: Summer Quick Start Session for Aspiring Paddlers
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for children in moderate physical shape who can comfortably sit and paddle for an hour or more.
Overview
Get your kids started on the water this summer with Akron’s Youth Kayaking Quick Start Session—a fun, skill-building experience aimed at young paddlers eager to explore Ohio’s gentle rivers safely.
Youth Kayaking-- Summer Quick Start Session
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join our Youth Kayaking Quick Start Session for an exciting 2-hour adventure on a serene lake! Designed for ages 4-12, this hands-on experience teaches essential paddling skills and safety under the guidance of a certified instructor. Get ready to splash around and enjoy the thrill of kayaking!
About
A 2 hour overview of the basics while having a little fun! • Ages 4 -12
Our Youth Kayaking-- Quick Start Session will be a 2 hour long session that will allow youth paddlers to learn basic safety, become comfortable in a kayak in a small lake setting while learning the basics of paddling strokes and maneuvers necessary to paddle a recreational kayak on flat or slow moving water.
This course will be instructed by an American Canoe Association (ACA) certified kayak instructor.
Dates & Times Available By Appointment
Location Cuyahoga Valley Adventures 1570 Akron Peninsula Rd., Akron, OH 44313
Age: 6-12 years of age (youth age 4-6 may be allowed to participate. Please contact us if you have a child that falls in this range)
We will provide a youth sit-on top kayak, youth paddle & youth life jacket for each paddler.
Come prepared to get wet! We will be spending most of our time on the water! Each paddler must be comfortable being in the water if they were to capsize.
Attire should be appropriate for paddling: Swim suits and a non- cotton synthetic shirt under life jacket is recommended to prevent rubbing of life jacket. Water shoes are required.
Porta potty onsite.
Adventure Tips
Wear a personal flotation device at all times
Every paddle session requires a USCG-approved life jacket to keep kids safe on the water.
Bring a water bottle and rehydrate often
Staying hydrated in the summer heat is key—encourage kids to drink water before, during, and after paddling.
Apply waterproof sunscreen daily
Prevent sunburns with a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF to protect skin exposed during the session.
Choose quick-drying clothes and shoes
Dress in lightweight, quick-dry materials to stay comfortable during wet outdoor activity.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- River Otter
History
The region’s waterways were historically vital to Native American trade routes and later contributed to Akron’s development as a canal hub in the 1800s.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize Leave No Trace principles and regularly participate in river clean-up events to protect water quality and habitat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
USCG-approved life jacket
Essential for safety on any water-based activity.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protect feet and provide traction on slippery surfaces.
summer specific
Sun hat with brim
Keeps sun off the face and neck during outdoor sessions.
summer specific
Lightweight quick-dry clothing
Ensures comfort and helps manage sweat and splash.
summer specific