The Truckee River Whitewater Park (800/367-7366) is a $1.5-million white-water and kayak park that’s the first of its kind in Nevada, and is located between First and Arlington streets in the heart of Reno’s bustling downtown. More than 2,600 feet long, the Class 3 white-water course includes north and south channels that surround a city park on an island in the river. It features 11 “drop pools,” boulders for kayaking maneuvers, a slalom racing course, and 7,000 tons of smooth flat rocks along the shores for easy river access. Best of all, the park is free and open to the public. Sierra Nevada Outdoors (800/881-6162; www.sierranevadaoutdoors.com), offers professional kayak instruction for all levels. The“Intro to Kayak” class is a perfect overview for beginners. Two and three day classes are also available for full immersion into the world of whitewater kayaking.