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Basic Packraft Paddling | Missoula, MT June 6 – 7, 2026
COURSE DETAILS
The Basic Packraft Course is for those wishing to gain professional instruction on the proper use, care, and application of a packraft for downstream travel.
ABOUT THIS COURSE:
If you are new to paddle sports, new to packrafting, new to the river and/or have never had formal paddling training before, the basic course is for you. It is designed to take those with minimal experience and give the foundational skills necessary to make reasonable decisions and understand craft mechanics and maneuverability. We will start with the basics: boat inflation, outfitting, personalizing your fit, paddles, paddle strokes and self-rescue. We will spend a good amount of time in and out of our boats as we travel down river each day working on training objectives while we paddle class II+ – III- water.
COURSE DETAILS:
ONLINE COMPONENT: Yes – Optional (but highly recommended)
COURSE FORMAT: 2-day field course with 2 hours of online training and two 8-hour in-field training days. Total class length: 18hrs.
WHEN: June 6 – 7, 2026
WHERE: Missoula, Montana
FIELD SITE: Blackfoot Rivers – Johnsrud Park Fishing Access
INSTRUCTOR: Libby Tobey & Sarah Kilbourne
PREREQUISITES:
1. A desire to learn
2. Packraft, paddle, and all associated boating gear necessary to travel downstream
3. Proficient swimmer
4. Physically capable
5. All of the listed PPE
6. Meet all Essential Eligibility Criteria
GEAR FOR THIS COURSE:
The welcome packet details the gear you will need for this course. As an SSI student, you get access to student pricing in the SSI Gear Shop! Once you register you’ll have access to the shop through your SSI account.