Karl Schmidt

Hailing from the Midwest, Karl has paddled whitewater throughout Appalachia, the Rocky Mountains, the Pacific Northwest, and Norway. Finding joy in the static noise of the rapids, he smiles his way though class V creeks and over thundering waterfalls. Karl and his wife Katie now call Richmond home, enjoying the unique world class urban whitewater found on the James River. Certified through the American Canoe Association and Rescue 3 International. Karl currently serves as Virginia Commonwealth University’s Outdoor Adventure Program Coordinator. Instructing rafting, kayaking, and swiftwater rescue allows Karl to support the next generation of whitewater paddlers and give back to the river community. On his off days Karl can be found doing the same this he does on his on days, enjoying the river.