Currently run by the family’s third generation, Madawaska Kanu Centre was the vision of Christa & Hermann Kerckhoff. Winning the individual Canadian whitewater kayak title in 1968 the couple was inspired to get more paddlers out on rivers. The first whitewater school in the world was born. Modeled after the European ski school concept where paddlers are divided into skill level groups, good food, and a great atmosphere lead to the ‘Rapid Education’ we know as MKC today! The Madawaska River location became the River of choice with its technical rapids and guaranteed surface water releases providing warm whitewater all summer long.

Overview

This Weekend Retreat provides an opportunity to learn new skills or fine-tune previously acquired paddling techniques in your choice of whitewater Canoeing or Kayaking. Once mastered, these skills open up unlimited paddling possibilities for wilderness travel on the water. Our team of talented female paddlers, will guide you through a fun-filled and confidence-boosting weekend on the water.
The quiet of the surrounding forest provides a unique ambiance for après-paddling relaxation, mealtimes and overnights. This all-inclusive retreat is enhanced by our amenities which include a log cabin sauna, outdoor showers, wash house, yoga retreat, and cozy chalet with fireside lounge and library.
Starting at
$342 USD
$428 CAD
Per Person

Trip Highlights

  • Learn from amazing and inspiring women on and off the river
  • Share awesome experiences with new and old friends
  • Join the paddling community

Currently run by the family’s third generation, Madawaska Kanu Centre was the vision of Christa & Hermann Kerckhoff. Winning the individual Canadian whitewater kayak title in 1968 the couple was inspired to get more paddlers out on rivers. The first whitewater school in the world was born. Modeled after the European ski school concept where paddlers are divided into skill level groups, good food, and a great atmosphere lead to the ‘Rapid Education’ we know as MKC today! The Madawaska River location became the River of choice with its technical rapids and guaranteed surface water releases providing warm whitewater all summer long.

Quick Facts

Paddlesport

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing

Activity

  • Whitewater

Experience/Service

  • Instruction or Skills Clinic

Waterway

  • Whitewater Class I
  • Whitewater Class II

Destination

  • North America

Length

  • 3 Days

Accomodation

  • Lodge or Resort-Based
  • Glamping
  • Campground or Car Camping

Guided

  • Yes

Outfitted

  • Custom

Special Interest

  • Women
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate

Accreditation

  • Skills Certification

Adventure Level

Easier Challenging

Itinerary

45.414850° N, 77.756885° W

Meeting Place

Madawaska Kanu Centre

Barrys Bay, Ontario

Day 1:

8:00 am - Buffet Breakfast 9:00 am - Welcome Meeting with the Instructors 9:30 am - Off to the River! 12:00 pm - Lunch at MKC 1:00 pm - Drive to Palmer Rapids 4:00 pm - Snack on the van ride back to MKC 6:00 pm - Dinner 7:30pm - Instructional Video 8:00pm - Wine & Cheese Tasting

Day 2:

8:00 am - Breakfast 9:00 am - Off to Palmer Rapids 12:30 pm - BBQ Lunch Buffet served at Palmer Rapids 1:30 pm - Back to the River! 3:30 pm Shuttle back to MKC 4:00 pm Snack 5:00 pm - Depart from MKC

Dates & Packages

Women's Retreat Weekend

June 29-30, 2024
Shared Lodge Plan | $324 Our rustic Lodge rooms have everything you need! Choose either a queen bed or 2 twin beds. Rooms are at ground level with nearby washroom facilities (en suite not available). Meals included. Shared Cabana Plan | $324 Enjoy our off-the-grid Cabanas tucked in the woods! Choose either a queen bed or 2 twin beds. Washroom facilities are a short walk away. Meals included. No electricity. Dormitory Plan | $270 Dorm room accommodation sleep up to six per room. Dorms are on the second floor with nearby washroom facilities. Meals included. Bring your own bedding. Camping | $234 MKC's wooded campsites are great for tents, trailers and campervans. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, onsite parking, and access to nearby washroom facilities. Meals included. No electricity.
Rental Package: $131 (for boat, paddle, helmet, lifejacket). Individual items also available to rent

What Guests Are Saying

I grew in confidence and competence. The retreat provided wonderful nourishment for body, heart and soul. It was wonderful to connect with women from many different places to learn together and support each other through our love of paddling.

- Kathleen
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Currently run by the family’s third generation, Madawaska Kanu Centre was the vision of Christa & Hermann Kerckhoff. Winning the individual Canadian whitewater kayak title in 1968 the couple was inspired to get more paddlers out on rivers. The first whitewater school in the world was born.

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Currently run by the family’s third generation, Madawaska Kanu Centre was the vision of Christa & Hermann Kerckhoff. Winning the individual Canadian whitewater kayak title in 1968 the couple was inspired to get more paddlers out on rivers. The first whitewater school in the world was born.

Read More
Location

The Madawaska River is celebrated as one of the best places in North America to learn whitewater paddling. Flowing past our front door, through a forest of hardwood and pine, the dam-controlled water is warm, clean, and dependable all summer long.

Read More
Location

The Madawaska River is celebrated as one of the best places in North America to learn whitewater paddling. Flowing past our front door, through a forest of hardwood and pine, the dam-controlled water is warm, clean, and dependable all summer long.

Read More