My arms were trembling from the exertion of pulling through three-foot waves against a head wind. My heart was pounding with the fear that I couldn't continue paddling for two hours, the kayak would tip, and I would be in the dark water alone: except for the monsters that were bumping the bottom of the boat.
This is our first attempt at an overnight trip that includes hiking out, pitching camp, and then strapping our thirty-pound packs to the front of the Alpaca Rafts to float home. I start to wonder about the wisdom of having our inaugural voyage fifteen miles back in a remote Alaskan drainage.
Aged 7 or 77 years, the effect is often similar - people are inspired and excited for life. At Bassenfell Manor Christian Centre in the Lake District, we have a passion for helping people find ‘life to the full’ through pointing them to Jesus, sharing his love and creation, and letting outdoor activities bring those interactions to life.
As we slide into our boats I notice Danny pull on his full-face helmet, making him look something of a cross between hockey goalie and Darth Vader. He looks like he’s ready for anything. I wonder if I’m in over my head. Pushing out into the flow, my heart races as we float towards my first lesson in class-III whitewater.
The rapids will push you down river - maybe down under the river. They’ll most definitely push you out of your comfort zone. And - when they do, an Alpine Adventures guide wants to help you find more than just a thrilling experience. See the companion videos on Shout's Outdoor Channel as well.
Stand up paddle boarding, or Hoe he'e nalu , is an emerging global sport with Hawaiian heritage. The sport is an ancient form of surfing, and has come back as a tremendously flexible way to get out on the water and enjoy paddling.
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| 1 |
In Defense of Anarchy By Matt Evans May/June 2013 |
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| 2 |
Scuba Diving Action Cameras By Matt Taylor November/December 2012 |
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| 3 |
World-Class Whitewater July/August 2012 |
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| 4 |
The Heat Is On By Aaron Biggerstaff May/June 2013 |
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