Our key Features
What Sets Us Apart From the Rest
#1
No Scripts. No Templates.
We reject the cookie-cutter approach. Every lesson – from 1-on-1s to university programs—is built to order based on your goals, your craft, and your timeline.
#2
Decades of Chattooga Expertise
Our coaches have 10+ years of experience on the iconic Chattooga River. We don’t just know the lines; we know how to use this dynamic environment to fast-track your progression.
#3
The Pre-River Consult
You aren’t just a booking on a calendar. Every student gets a personal call from their instructor before the lesson to dial in your specific needs. Your training starts before you hit the water.
#4
Focused Progression
We meet you where you are—whether that’s a pool-to-river transition or a Class V deep-dive. We push you just enough to build real confidence without the stress. Our coaches are patient, approachable, and deeply committed to creating a safe, supportive, and fun learning environment.
Team
Our Team
Crystal Gustin
Founder / Coach
Crystal Gustin has been paddling since 2005 and currently paddles for Jackson Kayak. She’s instructed at NOC (NC), Cascade Rafts (ID), and Ace Kayaking School (TN), sharing her love of the river with paddlers of all levels. Crystal has competed in freestyle, raced the Russell Fork, and paddled rivers across the U.S. and internationally. When she’s not on the water, she’s a high school Health and PE teacher. She’s stoked to launch Level Up Kayak School and bring expert whitewater instruction to the Chattooga River.
Jill Wrenn
Instructor / Coach
Jill Wrenn started whitewater kayaking in 2006 and began teaching in 2014. She has since shared her passion for paddlesports through kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding instruction across western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Jill loves helping paddlers of all ages build confidence, develop new skills, and find joy on the river.
Her adventures have taken her to rivers throughout the United States, Latin America, and Nepal—but no matter how far she travels, the Chattooga River will always feel like home.
Kerrie Barloga
Instructor / Coach
Still paddling through the editing process. Stay tuned for an updated bio once our instructor catches their breath!
Aimee Norris
Swiftwater Rescue Instructor
Aimee started kayaking in 2003 after moving to Columbia, South Carolina, and was hooked from the start. From local races and festivals to paddling classic Southeastern rivers, she dove headfirst into the sport. In 2018, she joined H2o Dreams Paddling School, where she taught a range of classes, including beginner lessons, kids’ camps, private instruction, and swiftwater rescue.
Availability and Booking Policy
Please note that due to regulations set by the Forest Service, availability for whitewater kayaking lessons is limited by both the number of days and times we can operate. Once we receive your requested dates, we will confirm availability and reach out via email with the final details. This will include a payment link, confirmation of your dates and times, and which section of the river we’ll be covering during your lesson.
We may not be able to confirm your request until two days before the anticipated date (this is dependant on the time of year and the section of whitewater)
