Bellingham And Paddling, 2 Birds Of A Feather
Bellingham Washington was recently named the best paddling town in the United States by Outside magazine. Match this with the statistic that nationwide, the number of people kayaking has increased by 23% in the last year, and you can see why kayaking in Bellingham is a great way to get involved in outdoor recreation.
Most kayakers would agree that you get to see some of the most breathtaking views from a kayak. Kayaks are able to go where many other types of boats cannot, or are not allowed. A few examples might be certain protected waterways and lakes, as well as some shallow coves and bays along the Pacific Northwest coastline.
Before venturing out in a kayak for the first time, there are some basics that need to be learned. Getting in and out of the boat, how to wear a spray skirt, how to get out of the boat if it is turned over ( known as a wet exit), and how to paddle. The best places to learn these skills in the Bellingham area are either the Elakah Expeditions www.elakah.com, or the Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts www.WakeKayak.com. Both of these organizations hold classes throughout the summer, as well as host half day trips to popular kayaking areas in Whatcom county. A few of these places include Chuckanut Bay and Lake Campbell.
Before you run out and buy a bunch of new gear, take this advice. Borrow someone else's boat, or buy a used one first. Then take some classes to see if you are going to be interested in kayaking. When you are ready to buy some gear, head down to Seattle's Northwest Outdoor Center. There you can try out over 20 different types of kayaks on Lake Union (for a fee). As your skills improve, you will likely sell your boat and buy others. Look for these used boats that others are selling.
Most kayakers would agree that you get to see some of the most breathtaking views from a kayak. Kayaks are able to go where many other types of boats cannot, or are not allowed. A few examples might be certain protected waterways and lakes, as well as some shallow coves and bays along the Pacific Northwest coastline.
Before venturing out in a kayak for the first time, there are some basics that need to be learned. Getting in and out of the boat, how to wear a spray skirt, how to get out of the boat if it is turned over ( known as a wet exit), and how to paddle. The best places to learn these skills in the Bellingham area are either the Elakah Expeditions www.elakah.com, or the Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts www.WakeKayak.com. Both of these organizations hold classes throughout the summer, as well as host half day trips to popular kayaking areas in Whatcom county. A few of these places include Chuckanut Bay and Lake Campbell.
Before you run out and buy a bunch of new gear, take this advice. Borrow someone else's boat, or buy a used one first. Then take some classes to see if you are going to be interested in kayaking. When you are ready to buy some gear, head down to Seattle's Northwest Outdoor Center. There you can try out over 20 different types of kayaks on Lake Union (for a fee). As your skills improve, you will likely sell your boat and buy others. Look for these used boats that others are selling.
Labels: bellingham, kayak, outdoor, recreation
