A few weeks ago I got together a few friends and invited them to go standup paddleboarding with me on beautiful Lake Tahoe.  Our sunset paddle and dinner at Lake Taco was a great way to spend a Saturday evening.  Most of the people in the group had never tried standup paddle boarding before but I knew that once they tried it they’d be hooked.  I was right. (What’s new?)

I asked my friend Kate Thomas about her experience as a standup paddle rookie.  Here’s her take.

Before you’d ever tried standup paddle, what were your impressions of the sport?
I have tried it once in New Jersey but that experience was in the ocean and it was really difficult to stand up. I have always loved the idea of standup paddling really early in the morning when the world is not awake yet with my dog sat on the front of the board. It just seems so calming, peaceful and relaxing. I also heard about yoga on a paddle board… sounded challenging and I love a new challenge.

What made you want to try it?
I am always up for trying new things and had wanted to try standup paddle for a while. What better a place to try it that in South Lake Tahoe. Beautiful clear water, amazing surroundings and great people at South Tahoe Standup Paddle.

What were your fears about getting on that board?
Obviously being able to stand up and stay up. The water was pretty choppy on the day we did it so I was nervous about that. But Chris gave us a great lesson to start off with and some brilliant pointers about looking at the horizon, which really worked. So I didn’t feel like I was going to fall it at all. In fact the water was so warm and perfect I ended up jumping in anyway.

Chris Brackett gave you a mini-lesson.  Did it help?
Tremendously. He gave some invaluable help that made the transition from kneeling to standing so much easier. He is a great teacher.

What was it like being out on the water?
Amazing!! It is so serene and tranquil and the water feels great lapping up on your feet. The sun was setting when we were out there and the colors and patterns reflecting on the lake were breathtaking. Truly an unforgettable experience.

What would you say to someone who’s thought about trying standup paddle but never has?
DO IT. RIGHT NOW.

Of all the places you could standup paddle, what did you love about doing it on Lake Tahoe?
There are so many pros to doing standup paddle in Tahoe. The obvious reason it is so good is because it is a lake and the water is much calmer. Secondly, Tahoe is one of the most beautiful spots in North America (in my opinion) with the best sunrises and sunsets out there. There is nothing like being alone in the middle of this great lake with the warm ambers and reds of the sunset reflecting all around you. So beautiful. Finally, Chris ROCKS and is a great teacher so you will definitely get the most out of your experience.