Advanced Packraft | Riggins, ID April 10 – 12, 2026

This three day Advanced Packraft course is designed for packrafters who have a regular habit of “playing” on the river through class III – III+ rapids. This includes catching small, technical eddies, punching waves and laterals and choosing/executing lines that may not be the easiest point-and-shoot routes through rapids. You should be competent in self-rescue as well as companion rescue 100% of the time, be comfortable with throw bags and be competent in righting a loaded packraft in moving water.

Space is limited to 6 students and will be taught by SSI lead instructor, Zak Sears. Class fills up fast, so register early!

ONLINE COMPONENT: Yes – Optional (but highly recommended)

COURSE FORMAT: 3-day field course with 2 hours of online training and three 8-hour in-field training days. Total class length: 26 hrs.

WHEN: April 10 – 12, 2026

WHERE: Riggins, ID

FIELD SITE: Little Salmon River – Riggins City Park

COURSE COSTS: $790

PREREQUISITES:
1. A desire to learn
2. Packraft, paddle, and all associated boating gear necessary
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.

Drysuits Required

ABOUT THIS COURSE:

Learn and practice more advanced techniques required for running more technical (Class III and up) whitewater. Students participating in this course will be competent and proficient in reading whitewater and safely paddling through Class II-III whitewater with minimal capsizes and eager to push themselves in order to improve their packraft paddling skills and comfort in more challenging and/or technical whitewater. Work on skills including Front Surfing, Draw Strokes and Boat scouting / Horizon Line Paddling skills.