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Enjoy a fully guided float between Big Bend and downtown Salida on the Arkansas River. Learn about our watershed and environmental issues facing the Arkansas Valley. This morning float will be guided by Independent Whitewater and will offer several stops for observation, reflection, and discussion. Boats will be set up with a stern rig, participants may choose to paddle assist. There will be a total of two boats and an interpreter will ride in each boat.
The group will meet at 8:00 am at Independent Whitewater (approximately 7 miles from downtown Salida) and will be shuttled back to Independent Whitewater upon completion of the trip. The Drift In Riverside Bar and Grill will be open for those who are interested in enjoying lunch by the river after the float. 
Interpreters:
Eric Heltzel studied geography and taught environmental sciences, geography, meteorology and geomorphology for 30 years. He is a river guide for IW and has a solid understanding of hydrology. Eric serves on the Board of the Collegiate Peaks Chapter of Trout Unlimited, was a Sierra Club national outings leader, has traveled extensively and has much experience leading people outdoors.
Dominique Naccarato is a Salida native, was a whitewater and fishing guide on the Arkansas River for thirteen years, and taught middle and high school science for seven years. Now entering her 5th year on staff at GARNA, she enjoys teaching kids and adults about geology, birding, forest health, stream ecology and our watershed. Having recently completed her Master’s in Environmental Management, Dominique explores our area’s natural history through the lens of human impact and community development.
The cost of the trip is $50 for GARNA members; $60 for non members. Price includes shuttle transportation, guided river trip with interpreters, life jackets and great conversation! Group size is limited. Additional information will be provided to those who register. Online registration is available below via our secure, pay pal site. Please note: you do not need a pay pal account, only a credit card. Fees support coordination and promotion of GARNA programs.
Many GARNA programs require a Liability Release Form be filled out each calendar year.
Your registration is secured upon receipt of payment, as long as there space is still available in a program. If you prefer not to register online (recommended), you may mail a check, made out to “GARNA” to the address below or stop by the office. Please include a note with the program you are registering for. Be aware, some programs sell out quickly, and we cannot confirm your spot with a mailed registration.
PO Box 1522
Salida CO 81201
Cancellation policy:
If we are notified of your need to cancel by 24 hours of program date, your program fee will be refunded except for a $3.00 administrative fee. No refunds within 24 hours or after the event (but most events are transferable). If minimum enrollment has not been met 2 days before program date, programs will be cancelled and we will refund the full amount.
