National Kayak Center
Carlton, Minnesota
The National Kayak Center continues to be a favorite site for all whitewater sports. From local beginners to Olympic-caliber paddlers, the varied terrain of the St. Louis River above and below the Thompson Dam offer different levels of difficulty. The University of Minnesota-Duluth Outdoor Program operates the Outpost Visitor Center at Jay Cooke State Park. This natural log structure serves as a staging location for classes, clinics, and competition events.
The new interest in whitewater “rodeo” events
has helped boost usership at the Kayak Center. Called “park and
play” paddling (as opposed to longer downriver runs), the Kayak
Center has proven to be a ideal site for rodeo paddling.
State Investment
$.260 million (1989)
Current Financial Operation
Operated by the University of Minnesota-Duluth Outdoor Program
Facility Specifications
White water section of the St. Louis River immediately downstream from
the Thompson Dam. Viewing areas, trails, spectator safety fencing. Facilities
for special events.
Estimated Economic Impact (1990-2000)
1989-1992: $ .853 million (annual ave: $ .213 million)
1993-1994: $1.293 million (annual ave: $ .646 million)
1995-1996: $ .780 million (annual ave: $ .390 million)
1997-1998: $ .151 million (annual ave: $ .076 million)
1999-2000: $ .158 million (annual ave: $ .079 million)
Total economic impact since opening (1989): $3.235 million
Estimated Users (1990-2000)
1989-1992: 26,874 (annual average: 6,718)
1993-1994: 25,745 (annual average: 12,872)
1995-1996: 30,500 (annual average: 15,250
1997-1998: 32,000 (annual average: 16,000)
1999-2000: 33,000 (annual average: 16,500)
Total users since opening (1989): 148,119
Sports and Activities Served
Cycling
Flatwater canoeing
Hiking
In-Line Skating
Whitewater Kayak & Canoeing
Park & Play Paddling Events
Night Rodeo
Major Events Hosted (1999 & 2000)
St. Louis River Whitewater Rendezvous
American Canoe Association Whitewater Kayak & Canoe Instructor Certification
UMD Outdoor Program classes and activities
Swiftwater rescue training
Open Canoe Whitewater Slalom National Championships (coming in 2001)
Economic Impact
For More Information
National Kayak Center
University of Minnesota Duluth Outdoor Program
121 Sports and Health Center
10 University Drive
Duluth, MN 55812-2496
218.726.6177
218.726.7188 (fax)
Web Site: http://www.umdoutdoorprogram.org
E-mail: outdoor@d.umn.edu
Randy Carlson, Manager
