What's The Weather Like?
Always check the forecast before you come to Outdoor UW and before you go out on the water. A lot of rentals are dependent on the wind direction and speed, and storms or high winds may cause the lake to be closed for a period of time. Long exposure to sunlight and extreme heat is also something to be aware of; be prepared with proper hydration, sunscreen, and clothing.
Are You Open If There Is A Northwind?
If the UW Lifesaving flag is green but the wind direction is from the North and higher than 12 mph, we will not be open for paddling rentals. On a Northwind day, the waves have the entire length of the lake to grow, so when they reach our launching point they're quite big. This can be challenging in even lighter winds, but in moderate to heavy wind it is an extremely challenging for stand-up paddleboards and inexperienced paddlers.
Are You Open If There Is A Southwind?
If the UW Lifesaving flag is green and the wind is from the South, we will be open for paddling rentals unless the conditions are too strong for beginning paddlers. However, keep in mind that on a Southwind day, the lakefront buildings block most of the wind, so while it is calm in the bay, beyond the mooring field the wind can be unsuspectingly strong. When you're paddling against the wind it will take you twice as long to get back to the rental area.
Are You Open If There Is An Eastwind Or Westwind?
If the UW Lifesaving flag is green and the wind is from the East or West, we will be open for paddling rentals unless the conditions are too strong for beginning paddlers. The most important thing to remember with these winds is that it will be harder on the way back if you begin by going with the wind.
I Have Never Been Paddling Before. How Do I Get Started?
No worries! We are here to help you and also have a handful of resources to help get you started:
Canoes: It is important that the person in the back of the canoe (helm) knows how to steer, and that the person in the front (bow) has more strength. Basic paddle strokes will be taught by the staff member helping with the canoes. Check out this video for instruction on getting in and getting started and this one for the golden rules of canoeing!
Kayak: As with the canoe, staff members will be able to offer instruction on how these paddling strokes should be executed. Check out this video for instruction on getting in and getting started and this one for the golden rules of kayaking!
SUP: This is a much simpler craft for paddling, but the form of the stroke is very important. Staff members will offer instruction on how these paddling strokes should be executed. Check out this video for instruction on getting on and getting started and this one for the golden rules of SUP!