Rochester Canoe and Kayak (Rock Park)
Information Page
(Map-Quest Address) This is not a mailing address!
Rochester Canoe and Kayak Park
1 Seth Green Drive
Rochester, NY 14621
Director: Art Miller 585 704-2372 or
Kayakadv@rochester.rr.com
Program Information: Check out these Clinics and Workshops. Go to the instruction page for details.
Introduction to Kayaking
Moving Water Workshops
Weekend Paddling Trip to Bellefonte PA (August)
Student Paddling Clubs
Adult Paddling Clubs
Sea Kayak Trips
Boy Scout Merit Badge Workshops
Girl Scout Merit Badge Workshops
Note: These programs are seasonal. The schedules will be posted soon.
Rock Park Details and Brief History:
Rochester Canoe and Kayak Park (Rock Park) was opened in the spring of 2006. This location was referred to as the "Jewel" of the Genesee by Democrat & Chronicle Sports writers. A forgotted absolutely beautuful location the runs beneath Driving Park Bridge and continues downstream (North) for about 1500 feet contains Class I to Class III+ whitewater year round. A coach couldn't ask for a more ideal location to Teach New and Experienced paddlers the finer points of Whitewater Kayaking.
The site was shown to members of the USA Canoe and Kayak National Development Committee and the response was overwelming in favor of designating the site as a National Jr Olympic Development Center. This action triggered a very busy summer. First came what seemed like a never ending series of Permits and Meetings to lay the groundwork for everything that followed. Insurance was provided by USA Canoe and Kayak.
With the help of Frontier Communications, Liberty Underground and almost 100 vulunteers the primary structure for the Whitewater Slalom Training Center was built. Followed by the placement of a series of Slalom gates that could be moved over the River during Training sessions and removed when the sessions were completed. The course was used daily throughout the season with over 1000 paddler visits to the Park. This area is one of the best fishing sites in the State. The positive aspect of this is that the Fishing season and the Kayaking season have very little if any overlap.
To improve safety and access for the young paddlers that use the Park the access road was built to allow for vehicles to transport the students to and from the put-in. The access road was also meant to assist the Police and The Rochester Fire Department Rescue teams. During the summer both organizations performed safety training drills weekly in response to the increased use of the area. All paddlers and parents were pleased to know that the Local Rescue Teams were ready if the need arrized. Fortunately our first year was accident free.
Rock Park is managed by Kayak Adventures and is a very important part of our overall Training Program for the many Recreational and Competitive students that paddle with us throughout the Year.