Sometimes, when the wind is blowing, the temperature is dropping and the sun is disappearing before you get off work, taking your boat to the creek just isn't as appealing as it is in the summer.
Luckily, Tri-State paddlers don't have to get rusty. Two area facilities offer a chance to work on rolls or other whitewater skills no matter how cold it gets this winter.
Calling Roll
Just up the road in Collegedale, Outdoor Chattanooga's Rapid Learning Whitewater Program is hosting classes in the pool at Southern Adventist University's Hulsey Wellness Center.
The ACA-certified staff supplies all of the equipment and offers instructions on everything from beginner rolls to more advanced whitewater skills on the first and second Tuesdays of each month.
The first lesson is free, but beyond that there is a $75 annual membership fee for individuals and $125 for families. Paddlers with their own gear can attend the classes for $10 each session.
For more information, call 423-643-6888.
Making Waves
Dawsonville, Ga. (about two hours from Chattanooga) is known for moonshine, race cars and an outlet mall. But the North Georgia town is also home to the world's only indoor wave generator exclusively created for paddlers.
The Outside World outdoor store, located just south of the mall, uses two 50 horsepower pumps to create a wave generator that moves 10,000 gallons of water per minute through an adjustable "sluice."
"Being the first of its kind. it's pretty special," says Lead Boater Dude Dan Schreiman-the title is printed on his business card that way. "It's a great tool."
The wave generator and pool are available to anyone wanting to demo a boat the shop has for sale. Paddlers can bring their own boats for $50-perhour lessons with American Canoe Association certified instructors. The pool can also be rented without an instructor for $40 per hour.
"It helps maintain what you've got or increase skills you'd like to work on," Schreiman says.
For more information, visit theoutsideworld.net or call 706-265-4500.