Everyone's Got a Story to Tell--We Want to Hear Yours

It’s almost summer. That means paddling season is either just beginning or it's in full swing. Spring runoff is being chased, boats are being brought out of winter storage, drysuits and tops are being packed away for the late fall, and hopefully everyone is optimistic about the rivers they have been or soon will be paddling. Here at the AW Journal, we’re excited too. Specifically, we’re eager to hear your stories and thoughts about paddling. As we do from time to time, we’re soliciting stories from you to help make our magazine the best it can be. So whether you’re a regular contributor or someone who’s never written about paddling before, now is the time to write and send us your stories. Remember, submitting stories and photos to AW couldn’t be easier: just use our Journal Submission Form to get us your stuff. And thanks!

Don’t know what to write about? Looking for inspiration? Try these suggestions:

Wilderness Paddling

Sure, the feeling of navigating whitewater is unparalleled, but so too are the places you can get via river. Some of the most incredible spots on the planet are accessible only by kayak, canoe, SUP, or raft. Getting to experience these special places is one of the best perks of being a paddler. If you have a story and photos that illustrates this point, please let us know!

Urban Whitewater

Kind of the opposite end of the spectrum from the previous idea, but urban whitewater has tons of appeal--especially for those who live in cities with viable paddling options. One of the most memorable experiences in my paddling career is surfing a huge wave in Lachine rapids in downtown Montreal. I remember thinking, “Imagine if I lived here…” If you do live there--or somewhere else with awesome whitewater down the street, let us know what it’s like.

Why I Paddle

This is the introvert’s chance to share. Everyone has reasons--conscious or not--why they paddle. It’s not like whitewater paddlesports are easy to break into or to continue to fit into a busy life, yet we all have made it happen. Why? How do you explain your passion for rivers to your non-paddling friends and family? Has anything worked to help them understand better? Let us know!