ACA ACA Trip Planning & Leadership

Question 1

What is the purpose of a 'float plan' before a paddling trip?

Accepted Answer

A record left with a responsible person detailing the trip route, participants, and expected return time

Answer

A document describing the type of flotation devices being used

Answer

A plan for floating downstream in the event of a capsize

Answer

A financial plan for purchasing new paddling equipment

Question 2

What is the recommended ACA student-to-instructor ratio for a beginner flatwater kayaking class?

Accepted Answer

6:1

Answer

1:1

Answer

3:1

Answer

12:1

Question 3

Before leading a group on a new river section, what should an ACA instructor always do?

Accepted Answer

Scout the route, review gauge data, and assess hazards in advance

Answer

Trust their experience and paddle it without prior preparation

Answer

Have students sign liability waivers and proceed immediately

Answer

Wait for a sunny day and high water levels

Question 4

What does 'reading water' mean in river trip planning?

Accepted Answer

Observing the river's surface features to identify currents, hazards, and routes before paddling

Answer

Reviewing river maps and guidebooks

Answer

Monitoring weather reports for precipitation

Answer

Calculating the river's flow rate using mathematical formulas

Question 5

What is a 'shuttle' in the context of a paddle trip, and how does it affect trip planning?

Accepted Answer

Moving vehicles from the put-in to the take-out so paddlers can do a one-way trip

Answer

A ferry service that transports gear between campsites

Answer

A paddling stroke used to cross a current

Answer

An emergency evacuation plan for the group

Question 6

When selecting a put-in and take-out for a student group, what is the most important safety consideration?

Accepted Answer

Ease of water access, manageable current at the launch, and safe egress for all skill levels

Answer

Proximity to a restaurant for post-paddle meals

Answer

Availability of free parking

Answer

Distance from the nearest town to ensure a wilderness experience