Minnesota may (arguably) have 10,000 lakes, but it also has hundreds of miles of rivers—many of them perfect for a kayak. What’s so great about Minnesota is its varied mixture of water from quiet scenic lakes and rivers, to roaring white water rivers and majestic Lake Superior.
Our ACA-certified instructors will first teach you the basics in the pool or on one of our many beautiful metro area lakes. As you gain skill and confidence, we will move you on to the gentle Mississippi, Crow Wing or St. Croix Rivers to gain experience on moving water. For the more adventurous kayaker, the thrill-a-minute play spots and rapids on the Snake River, the Kettle River in Banning State Park and the St. Louis River in Jay Cooke State Park await. For those wanting a true sea kayaking experience, Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands National Seashore will give you that and much more.
Whichever paddling discipline you choose, your TRR Minnesota chapter, along with the support of partners Three Rivers Parks District and Rapids Riders Canoe and Kayak Club are here for you and every paddle stroke you take!
Winter pool sessions begin in November at the Edinborough Park Pool in Edina and run through April. White water instruction with TRR-Mpls and Rapids Riders start in May and run through June. Outdoor lake and gentle river sessions with Three Rivers Parks District start in May and run through September.
We serve patients at the Minneapolis VA Hospital as well as any injured/affected service member who are interested in kayaking. Please contact us for further information.
Check out our scheduled events and “like” us on Facebook!
LOCATION:
Minneapolis, MN
If you or you know of a veteran that might be interested in volunteering and/or participating with TRR Minneapolis, MN, please contact the chapter coordinator below and get involved!
Chapter Coordinator(s):
Cohen Rautenkranz – cohen.rautenkranz@teamriverrunner.org
Kelly Meehan – kelly.meehan81@gmail.com
Naomi Houdek naomi.houdek@teamriverrunner.org
612-559-1962
Committe Co-Chair
Vanessa A. Jones is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering
inclusivity, encouraging discussion, and promoting a culture of
belonging in the outdoor sports community. Hailing from
Washington, DC, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and
perspectives to her endeavors.
As a US Army veteran and ordained Chaplain with a focus on
seniors and caretakers, Vanessa is deeply committed to serving
others. Her work as a patient-caretaker advocate reflects her
passion for supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their
voices are heard.
Currently, Vanessa is employed by a resettlement agency, where
she confronts challenges head-on with resilience and
compassion. As a single, Black woman veteran, she embraces
the unique hurdles she faces, viewing them as opportunities for
growth and empowerment.
In her downtime, she wears many hats, including that of a
missionary, spreading hope and positivity wherever she goes.
Weekends are spent paddling, immersing herself in West African
dance and finding solace and joy in nature’s embrace.
Vanessa is committed to equitable principles, ensuring that
everyone’s opinions are valued and heard. Through her
unwavering dedication and inclusive leadership, Vanessa is
paving the way for a more equitable and diverse outdoor sports
landscape.