Travel Blog


Kern Rafting River Whitewater

May 14th, 2017 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

Kern Rafting River WhitewaterLocated in California, Kern Rafting River Whitewater is just three hours north of Los Angeles in the Sequoia National Forest. They have over 60 miles of commercially-run whitewater. As a result this location is a beautiful place to visit for residents of LA and other local cities.

The Rafting River Whitewater season begins in April as the snowpack from the western slope of the highest peak in the continental United States, Mt. Whitney, begins to melt. Of course this snowmelt drains into the upper river basin and makes it way down to the Lake Isabella reservoir.

The water is then let out of the Isabella dam forming a 21-mile stretch of excellent whitewater. As a result the Lower Kern, rafting one and two-day whitewater trip into September can be taken.

Kern Rafting River Whitewater

At Kern Rafting you can have a quality outdoor experience.  Of course the Kern Rafting River Whitewater staff is excited each year to help meet the needs of our Rafting Special guests. They are excited to get them out on the river. The staff is proud to work in such an enjoyable and exciting occupation. This is one of America’s most exciting and versatile rivers.

Kern Rafting River Whitewater can accommodate just about all age and experience levels you can bring. The company operates on all commercial sections of the Kern. This includes the Forks, high in the Golden Trout Wilderness of the Southern Sierra. Whether you are looking for a short, mild jaunt or a raging class V multiple-day wilderness adventure, we have it waiting for you and your group.

The guides are among the most knowledgeable and friendly in the business, having run many different rivers. Their love of whitewater and people can be seen from their mastery of the rapids and the delicious meals they prepare.

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California En Language rafting whitewater

December 28th, 2016 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

California En Language rafting whitewaterWhitewater rafting in California like anywhere else in the United States, exciting and challenging. It is also safe provided that you have excellent well trained guides who know the rivers. they should be trained in first aid, and know how to handle a raft in whitewater conditions. They should be comfortable with a group of people on board who may not have any experience in whitewater conditions.

They should know how to execute steering strokes to drive the raft to the best place to navigate the rivers rapids. Guides must also understand rafting safety procedures. They should know how to rescue swimmers should the raft capsize in whitewater conditions. If the raft does flip, they must be able to right a flipped boat and get everyone back on board.

California En Language rafting whitewater

In addition, if you are taking an overnight whitewater rafting trip in California, can your guide handle the camping requirements. Also the cooking requirements for a large group of people. Can they actually cook a good meal in a wilderness setting. Having a hot meal after a day running whitewater rapids in California can be very enjoyable. You want to really make sure that the trip you plan to take is going to meet your expectations.

Whitewater rafting guides are taught how to swim rapids. And also perform self rescue in difficult situations. Also how to use and care for whitewater rafting equipment and how to read water to find the best route through whitewater rapids. If this is your first time taking an whitewater rafting trip in California, check out the guides and make sure they are up to date on all of these areas.

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California In Rafting whitewater

October 30th, 2016 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

There is a wide range of California rafting whitewater trips available in California. Some suitable for children from 4 years, seniors and those with special needs. There is also some of the wildest whitewater in California. There is really thrills and challenges available for everyone. California In Rafting whitewater.

Particularly for a first time rafting trip, or if you have a larger group, err on the side of caution to ensure everyone has fun. Choosing the most suitable California Rafting trip or American River Rafting trip for your group can be a challenge. However if you focus on everyone having a good time and some excitement, everyone will be more than satisfied.

California In Rafting whitewater – Classes

Class one is usually the easiest and is acceptable for children, seniors and people with special needs. Class 2 is also easy and aimed at the beginner, first time whitewater rafters, groups , bachelor parties and is ok for non swimmers. The next level, Class 3 is intermediate or adventurous. It is generally aimed at people with previous experience, adventure Scout groups and usually requires good swimming ability. Class 4 requires class 3 requirements along with strong swimming ability. Class 5 is the most advanced and difficult of the whitewater rafting trips. It may require swim tests and you must have very strong swimming ability.

Nearly everyone can participate in a rafting trip at some level. Anyone with any medical condition, very overweight or in poor physical shape should always consult with their physician. Those with a heart condition or back problems should be particularly cautious. Each participant must fit into a life jacket with all buckles fastened. It is also important to let the guides know in advance about any conditions that may affect anyone from being fully able to participate to ensure your safety.

Outdoor activity involves risk. Accidents can happen. All participants will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk or Liability Release form prior to the trip.

 

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American Rafting River whitewater

October 29th, 2016 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

The American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

The river moves first among big foothills and later through a steep granite canyon. The American Rafting River struts out quickly, surging powerfully. It hen yawns coyly before suddenly rushing headlong through a number of rapids and gorges.

The American Rafting River Whitewater experience consists of the South Fork American River, the Middle Fork American River, the North Fork American River. There are rafting trips on each of these rivers. Customers can experience rafting whitewater river trips on all of them.

American Rafting River whitewater – Middle Fork

The Middle Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains just east of Sacramento. A great run for hardy, adventurous first timers and experienced rafters alike.

The river runs through a deep, wild, picturesque canyon in Auburn State Recreation Area. The Middle Fork of the American River offers rafters class IV-V excitement interspersed with more soothing stretches of Class II-III. At one point the entire river rages down a narrow class V cascade called Tunnel Chute. Then breezes underground through a runnable 30-yard cavern.

The South Fork American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

Moving first among big foothills and later through a steep granite canyon, the South Fork struts out quickly, surging powerfully. Then yawns coyly before suddenly rushing headlong through the fabled American River Gorge.

The North Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and carves a deep, sheer gorge, which plunges in a deep crevasse down the western slope of the Sierra.

The water sparkles like liquid diamonds, and the stream bed is sensuous intimate – at times just wide enough for the rafts.

All participants should be strong, physically fit and able to swim – only paddle boats are used on this exhilarating run.

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California Rafting Whitewater

October 28th, 2016 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

California Rafting WhitewaterThere are five rivers that are must do for California Rafting whitewater trips. They are listed in no particular order and should be of interest to Whitewater rafting enthusiasts. Always remember to apply safety when Whitewater rafting and follow your guides instructions.  We have listed them as follows:

1. The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular whitewater rafting trip in California because it has lots of Class III+ rapids, a long rafting season, and is relatively safe. Spring, Summer and Fall.

2. The North Fork of the American: Steep Class IV rapids in a tight gorge with crystal clear water. This is the premier class IV trip on the American River. This makes a great whitewater rafting trip in California for those of you that want a technical challenge. Spring and early Summer.

3. The Tuolumne: This river is the cream of the crop with famous Class IV rapids and “Wild and Scenic” scenery. Located near Yosemite National Park, most of the river takes advantage of the great hikes and spectacular scenery by spending a night or two in the canyon. Spring and Summer.

4. The Cal Salmon: This California whitewater rafting trip is for those of you that are hooked. Near the California-Oregon border, this river is well worth the drive for the numerous Class IV rapids and three famous Class V rapids. You’ll set up a base camp as you explore different sections of this river. Spring only.

5. Forks of the Kern: This three day trip has over 40 Class IV rapids and 3 big Class V’s. Granite boulders, breathtaking vistas, and huge waterfalls make this a spectacular rafting trip.

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American River Rafting

August 21st, 2013 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

American River RaftingThe three forks of the American River begin in the peaks of the Sierra Nevada range in Northern California. From there they meander through granite canyons into the rolling foothills of the gold country. The three forks range in difficulty from Class II (beginner) to Class IV+ (advanced).

The South Fork American is one of the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in the western United States. It jostles over friendly Class II-III rapids and meanders through the historic gold-mining town of Coloma. The Middle Fork American careens through a secluded canyon over numerous Class IV rapids, including infamous Tunnel Chute Rapid. The North Fork American relies on snow melt for its flows rather than upstream dam releases. Consequently, this American River rafting classic only runs in the spring.

South Fork American River Rafting

South Fork American River rafting is not recommended for inexperienced rafters, kayakers or inner-tubers (with the exception of the Coloma to Lotus section). The South Fork is Class III with some tricky and potentially dangerous rapids. The river gradient is a steep, exciting 30 feet per mile in the upper gorge from Chili Bar to Trouble Maker, easing to 9 feet per mile through the Coloma Valley. Another area becoming 33 feet per mile through the lower gorge.

The South Fork of the American is unusual in that most of the land along the river is privately owned. Homeowner’s, commercial rafting companies, private boaters, ranchers, anglers and picnickers all share this beautiful river. Above all follow proper etiquette while on the river.

Middle Fork of the American River

The Middle Fork of the American River runs through the scenic Sierra Foothills of Tahoe National Forest. The Oxbow to Greenwood run is class III-IV with one Class V (Tunnel Chute). Likewise with crews of people with at least Class III river experience who are ready for a strenuous and sometimes dangerous river adventure. As a result it is an order of magnitude more difficult than the South Fork of the American.

North Fork American River

The North Fork American is the most difficult of the three Forks. Towering Cliffs and 2000 foot canyon walls spotted with black oaks and varying pines sets the back drop. Hence this is one of the most beautiful California whitewater rafting river canyons. Located near Interstate 80, near the city of Auburn, the North Fork is easily accessible with some camping options nearby.

The Colfax-Iowa Hill Bridge to Ponderosa Way Bridge run is the most popular section to run. As a result it has been a favorite for California rafters and kayakers since the mid seventies. This 9.5 mile run contains many steep drops and boulder slaloms. Hence providing some of the best whitewater rafting of the 3 forks of the American river.

No Dams

The North Fork American, with no dams upstream, is truly a wild river. Most noteworthy it can be run by raft, canoe, or kayak in winter and spring only, when water exceeds about 900 cubic feet per second (cfs). At all levels, the river is Class IV with little rescue access. The North Fork American is a highly technical river. It should only be attempted by very experienced whitewater boaters who have seen its rapids before. A mile-by-mile guide cannot replace the judgment of each individual boater.

The North Fork is as dangerous a river to boat at low flows as at high flows. Several drownings and injuries have occurred at low flows due to underwater sieves. Above about 1500 cfs most dangerous rocks are covered and passages are wider, and maneuvering is much easier. But at flows in the 3,500 to 5,000 cfs range, hydraulic intensity increases markedly and eddies and rescue options decrease.

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Borrego Springs California

March 16th, 2013 ernie Posted in Borrego Springs No Comments »

Borrego Springs CaliforniaBorrego springs desert

Anyone planning to go to Borrego Springs can follow these directions. To get to Borrego springs take highway 10 E. from Palm Springs, Los Angeles, or the other Desert cities and then take Highway 86 S. towards Borrego springs. You will see the turn off on Highway 86 for the road towards the town of Borrego springs. This road takes you through the Badlands in the desert which are some of the pictures shown above and below.Tthis is a beautiful area of the desert and there’s lots of off roading opportunities in this part of the desert.

20130313-185348.jpgThe trip to Borrego Springs California is a nice drive taking about an hour to two hours depending on where you are coming from and also how often you stop like us to take pictures. There are also specific locations for those people in RV’s to pull off the road and spend the night with no services. There is also an RV park in Borrego Springs California where you can park for the night and also obtain some services for your RV. It is within easy walking distance of the town of Borrego Springs California as well, although some people might want to take the  car or bike into town.

Borrego Springs California – Views

20130313-185355.jpgThe view on the road to Borrego Springs California is absolutely beautiful if you enjoy the desert. There is a small golf course, a nice housing development and several small hotels. There are not many services such as bars and restaurants. This is a place to chill out and relax in the pure desert air. There are also lots of places to hiking, there is a desert museum and interpretive center as well to visit.  Anyone planning to stay in Borrego Springs California, should plan on spending a very quiet vacation.  If you need to go shopping for major groceries, or other items, plan on taking the entire day to drive into Indio or one of the other desert cities in the valley.

For more information about Borego Springs California, click here.

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Salton Sea

March 14th, 2013 ernie Posted in Borrego Springs 1 Comment »

Salton Sea.jpgThe Salton Sea, California shown in the distance is located in southern California. It is south of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. The Salton Sea is actually below seal level. The largest land locked sea in the USA. Unfortunately it is not a place were you would want to spend a lot of time going to the beach or swimming in. There are few nice beaches and the water level has been declining for the past few years. Which has become a concern to local residents as well as local farmers.

Salton Sea  – Swimming

Chemicals foul the water. Most people will not even put their boats in the water. It remains a beautiful sea to look at in the middle of the desert. When sea levels were higher and the land was actually lower. The water level is continuing to get lower due to the extensive evaporation.

This picture was taken from the parking lot of the Red Earth Casino. It is a small Indian Casino along highway 86.  click here for more information. For more information about Borego Springs California, click here.

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Borrego Springs Campground California

August 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in Borrego Springs No Comments »

Borrego Springs Campground CaliforniaWe have been to Borrego Springs in California several times on day trips and have enjoyed every visit. We stay in Palm Springs and drive south along I10 until you come to Cal 86. Take this highway and stay on it until you come to Borrego Salton Seaway. Turn on to this road, you will see the signs. The scenery is truly fantastic with lots of spots to stop along the way. Observe the huge vista’s as well as the ravines where off road vehicles race each other along the bottom of the ravines.

As the picture shows on the left, traveling to Borrego springs allows you to see huge vista’s that are very impressive. Whether you are renting a home, staying in a motel or camping in the Borrego Springs campground you will enjoy the scenery, the solitude, the hiking and the fresh air! We like to go to the Borrego Springs museum or visitors center. You can learn all about the area, how it came to be and the local wildlife that exists in the area.

Borrego Springs Campground California – Hiking

Hiking Path

There are short paved hiking paths were you can walk into the desert. Experience the feeling of being in the dry desert without actually having to hike too far. This is suitable for those people who may not be able to walk that far. Or need paved surfaces for wheel chairs and motorized chairs. The entire visitors center is set up so that people who have difficulty with steps can see the entire indoor and outdoor exhibits. We really enjoyed the exhibits and learning about the area and how it originally got started.

What to Bring to Borrego Springs

If you do plan to go to the area, always take along a hat, sun tan lotion and a bottle of water. It can get pretty hot on some days. You do not want your trip curtailed because you forgot to bring a hat or water to drink while hiking in the area. The trail that begins at the visitors center winds its way through the desert for about 1 mile. It ends at the Borrego Springs Campground. It appears to be suitable for both camping in tents as well as  it can accommodate RV parking as well.

There is also a golf course in the area with homes that back onto the golf course. We have driven through the area and found them well manicured in terms of landscaping and watered lawns. There is a grocery store and several restaurants in the area. Visitors should be aware that this is a small village that does not have all of the things that you might expect to have in a larger community.

Driving to Borego Springs

The picture below is an example of the pristine desert that you walk through. Hikers are asked to stay on the walkway to avoid damaging the environment. They also avoid encountering snakes and other wildlife.

The drive to Borrego Springs as we already mentioned is spectacular.  There are many ravines that crisscross the desert. These ravines are washed out areas that have been formed by flash floods that occasionally occur in the desert. They have flat sandy paths that are now used by off road vehicles. They are for people who are looking for some excitement and to get a taste of a different part of the desert.

Visit the area in the spring time. The flowers are spectacular. If you can time your visit in the March time frame or just after a winter rain storm there is a good chance you will see lots of flowers. Also some years are better than others in terms of flowers. However as always the desert is beautiful in it’s own way with very different plants and fauna that you do not see anywhere else.

We plan to go back to this area again in the spring of 2013 and will provide another update . For more information about Borrego Springs California, click here.

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American River North Fork

June 7th, 2012 ernie Posted in California 2 Comments »

The American North Fork river is in the state of California. It is considered a class 4 river. (see our post on white water rafting classifications if you are not familiar with this level.) The length is 10 miles or 16 kilometers. The season typically lasts from April until June, corresponding with the spring runoff.  Summer time flows are too shallow for white water rafting on the American river north fork. Unless there has been heavy rains or unusual amounts of rain in the season. There are a number of rapids which are named:

  • Chamberlain Falls,
  • Zig-Zag,
  • Achilles Heal,
  • Bogus Thunder,
  • Staircase

American River North Fork

The North Fork is one of three sections on the American River system suitable for rafting. However it is the most challenging of the rivers, offering a class 4 section that runs about 5 miles, while the remainder is typically class 2 or class 3 level of rapids.

There are many intricate boulders, rushing falls and drops that combine to provide an intense white knuckle thrilling ride. this particular section of the river is not dammed, so the run is a truly natural wilderness run. This particular river is only suitable for white water rafting during the April to June period corresponding with the snow melt in the mountains.

Check before heading out with a local rafting company to ensure that there is sufficient water. You want to have a safe and thrilling ride through the boulders, falls and drops.

By late June, the runoff from the mountains will decrease to become a normal mountain stream so there may not be sufficient water cascading down through the gorges to provide a white water rafting experience.

This is a great set of rapids to challenge even the most daring folks who love to go rafting. The challenges will vary a great deal depending on the time of year and the relative amount of snow fall in the mountains.  If you are after a particularly challenging set of rapids, check with the rafting company. Speak to one of the guides to find out about the local conditions at the time you are planning to go.

Comments are welcome. let us know what you think about the American river north fork white water rafting experience.

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White Water Rafting in California

May 7th, 2011 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

White Water Rafting in CaliforniaThere are many rafting trips available in California. Some suitable for children from 4 years, seniors and those with special needs. There is also some of the wildest White Water Rafting in California or in the nation, so there are really thrills and challenges available for everyone.

If this is a first time rafting trip, or if you have a larger group, err on the side of caution to ensure everyone has fun. Choosing the most suitable White Water Rafting in California trip or American River Rafting trip for your group can be a challenge, however if you focus on everyone having a good time and some excitement, everyone will be more than satisfied. While more serious rafters may be disappointed, they should focus on the comradeship of a larger group and the enjoyment from watching the excitement of new rafters

White Water Rafting in California – Classes of Rapids

Class one and two trips are for beginners, children and seniors. Class one set of whitewater rapids are relatively easy to navigate, although you still need to be wearing a life jacket and you need to follow the instructions of the guides.

These can be very nice relaxing whitewater trips, were you can enjoy the scenery and the wildlife that may exist along the river. If you are planning to take on higher class rapids, make sure you read the requirements and the safety issues before you sign up just to make sure you receive what you expect in terms of whitewater thrills.

Class 3, class 4 and class 5 rapids are progressively more difficult and thrilling. You may need to pass a number of tests before going on some of these whitewater trips just to make sure that you can handle any of the potential upsets that could occur. Particularly in class 5 whitewater rapids trips, participants could be thrown out of the raft or the raft could even tip over. If this happens you need to be able to swim out of the rapids and get to shore were someone can pick you up.

If you are not up to the task of swimming out of the whitewater rapids, then this level of rafting trip may not be for you. You can still great thrills if you go on lower class rafting trips down whitewater rapids. Remember too that rapids classification are also dependent on the amount of water that is cascading down the river. Spring runoff will usually bring higher cascades than summer or late fall unless there are heavy rains in the headlands of these whitewater rapids.

White Water Rafting in California classifications

Whitewater rafting in California is classified from one to five to help customers understand the type of whitewater rafting experience they can expect.

Class one is usually the easiest and is acceptable for children, seniors and people with special needs. Class 2 is also easy and aimed at the beginner, first time whitewater rafters, groups. Also for bachelor parties and is ok for non swimmers. Class 3 is intermediate or adventurous and is generally aimed at people with previous experience, adventure Scout groups. This class usually requires good swimming ability. Class 4 requires class 3 requirements along with strong swimming ability. Class 5 is the most advanced and difficult of the whitewater rafting trips. They may require swim tests and you must have very strong swimming ability.

Nearly everyone can participate in a rafting trip at some level, but anyone with any medical condition, very overweight or in poor physical shape should always consult with their physician. Those with a heart condition or back problems should be particularly cautious. Each participant must fit into a life jacket with all buckles fastened. It is also important to let the guides know in advance about any conditions that may affect anyone from being fully able to participate to ensure your safety.

There are risks involved in any outdoor activity and accidents can happen. All participants will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk or Liability Release form prior to the trip.

Major White Water Rafting in California

There are five rivers that are must do California Rafting whitewater trips. We have listed them as follows:

1. The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular whitewater rafting trip in California because it has lots of Class III+ rapids, a long rafting season, and is relatively safe. Spring, Summer and Fall.

2. The North Fork of the American: Steep Class IV rapids in a tight gorge with crystal clear water. This is the premier class IV trip on the American River. This makes a great whitewater rafting trip in California for those of you that want a technical challenge. Spring and early Summer.

3. The Tuolumne: This river is the cream of the crop with famous Class IV rapids and “Wild and Scenic” scenery. Located near Yosemite National Park, most of the river takes advantage of the great hikes and spectacular scenery by spending a night or two in the canyon. Spring and Summer.

4. The Cal Salmon: This California whitewater rafting trip is for those of you that are hooked. Near the California-Oregon border, this river is well worth the drive for the numerous Class IV rapids and three famous Class V rapids. You’ll set up a base camp as you explore different sections of this river. Spring only.

5. Forks of the Kern: This three day trip has over 40 Class IV rapids and 3 big Class V’s. Granite boulders, breathtaking vistas, and huge waterfalls make this a spectacular rafting trip. You’ll have to hike two miles into the put-in and warm-up on some other class IV rivers first, though. Spring only.

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American South Fork White Water Rafting

February 21st, 2011 ernie Posted in California 1 Comment »

American South Fork White Water RaftingAmerican South Fork White Water Rafting – 21 miles of class III,III+ and IV rapids. Recommended for athletic users only. Other rafting trips involve shorter trips as well. There are half day trips, full day trips and 2 days trips available.

Description – The American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

The American Rafting River Whitewater experience consists of the South Fork American River; the Middle Fork American River; the North Fork American River. There are rafting trips on each of these rivers. Customers can experience rafting whitewater river trips on all of them.

The South Fork American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

Moving first among big foothills and later through a steep granite canyon, the South Fork struts out quickly, surging powerfully. Then yawns coyly before suddenly rushing headlong through the fabled American River Gorge.

American South Fork White Water Rafting

The North Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It carves a deep, sheer gorge, which plunges in a deep crevasse down the western slope of the Sierra.

The Middle Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains just east of Sacramento. A great run for hardy, adventurous first timers and experienced rafters alike.

River Rating

The 3-mile, Class II “Coloma to Lotus” stretch is an ideal introduction to whitewater. Intermediate boaters enjoy the increased challenge of the Class III “Chili Bar” and “Gorge” runs. Expert kayakers spend hours perfecting their rodeo moves in the world-famous Chili Bar Hole and other play spots.

Number of Rapids

Numerous class III, III+ and class IV white water rapids. The flow rates on the river can vary widely between spring , summer and fall. Also storms and rainy weather can change the flows quickly. Check with your outfitter for current conditions.

Minimum Age

8 years is the minimum age for going on south fork rafting trips.

South Fork White Water Departure Dates

California rafting starts early in mid-March and usually runs through the end of September and occasionally into October. Other times, after a major storm, whitewater rafting is available due to increased flows of the rivers in the late fall and winter months. Rafting schedules are at its peak during the summer months in California.

Boat Type

Rafts as well as Kayaks. Canoes are not recommended

South Fork White Water What to Bring 

In colder weather or spring time, we advise wet suit gear to keep you warm on the river. Check for local conditions and time of year with your outfitter.

If you are on an overnight camping trip, review the lists for what to bring on a rafting trip from your outfitter. Each one will have slightly different requirements.

In the summer, basics are needed. Swim wear, shorts, tennis shoes and lots of sunblock!

Outfitters

There are multiple outfitters for all 3 sections of the American River. Search for the section you are interested in or go to the American North Fork review or the American Middle Fork review. These reviews will be posted within two weeks of this post about the American South Fork River.

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California White Water Rafting

February 7th, 2010 ernie Posted in California No Comments »

White Water Rafting in CaliforniaThere are many locations were you can try your hand at White Water rafting in California. We have listed a number of California White Water rafting locations and provided a short description of each. White water rafting can be a lot of fun for all types of people and with a variety of skill levels. California White Water rafting rapids, like all white water rafting  has all of the rapids classified into classes so that you know what you are getting into and outfitter can match their customers to the type of rapids they offer.

For example you do not want to be on a Class IV rapids when you can barley swim or do not have the stamina to paddle and navigate a rough set of rapids. Generally all outfitters will offer a variety of rapids to traverse that will accommodate the beginners as well as the technical experts.

California White Water Rafting

The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular whitewater rafting trip in California because it has lots of Class III+ rapids, a long rafting season, and is relatively safe. Spring, Summer and Fall. This California White Water rafting location offers trips and river fun for the novices, the experts as well as the thrill seekers.  Rafting enthusiasts can also arrange for trips ranging from half day trips to two-day trips with experienced guides. The South Fork of the American is just a short drive from Sacramento.

The Middle Fork of the American:The land around the Middle fork of the American river is privately owned, yet the river is open to everyone and there are numerous areas that can be enjoyed along this portion of the river. This portion of the river provides a variety of boating challenges for experienced boaters and expert boaters.

The North Fork of the American: Steep Class IV rapids in a tight gorge with crystal clear water makes this California White Water rafting river a challenge. This is the premier class IV trip on the American River. This makes a great whitewater rafting trip in California for those of you that want a technical challenge. This section of the river is really for experts only. During the Summer, the flows are often too low for rafting, and this portion of the river becomes a great place for hiking with demanding canyon trails and cool swimming holes for resting.

The Tuolumne:

This river is the cream of the crop with famous Class IV rapids and “Wild and Scenic” scenery. Located near Yosemite National Park, most of the river takes advantage of the great hikes and spectacular scenery by spending a night or two in the canyon. Spring flows from the snow melt are fierce and challenging for even the most experienced rafter. During the summer there is just enough water to negotiate the river. This California White Water rafting river changes from being scary and dangerous to being a technical challenge for experienced rafters.

The Cal Salmon: This California whitewater rafting trip is for those of you that are hooked. Near the California-Oregon border, this river is well worth the drive for the numerous Class IV rapids and three famous Class V rapids. You’ll set up a base camp as you explore different sections of this river. Spring only. The Cal Salmon has many Class IV rapids and includes three challenging Class V rapids. The water is clear and the beauty of the bedrock canyon is stunning. Additionally, this run is a long drive from California’s population centers so it is rarely crowded.

Forks of the Kern: This three-day trip has over 40 Class IV rapids and 3 big Class V’s. Granite boulders, breathtaking vistas, and huge waterfalls make this a New Rafting River whitewaterspectacular rafting trip. You’ll have to hike two miles into the put-in and warm-up on some other class IV rivers first, though. Spring only.

This 22 mile rafting trip features huge Class V drops and continuous Class IV whitewater framed by some of the most spectacular canyon scenery in the west. Space is limited and trips fill early.

The Forks of the Kern originates near Mt. Whitney in the Golden Trout Wilderness. It is much more strenuous than other river trips and guests should be in good shape.  The canyon is steep and remote. Horses and mules are needed to carry rafts to the river. Guides and guests must hike the 2.5 miles to put-in carrying their own gear.

Truckee River Rafting near Lake Tahoe

This white water rafting trip on the Truckee River is the closest rafting to Lake Tahoe and Reno. It is a fun and exciting, 7-mile guided white water adventure, with many Class 2-3 rapids for the first 6 miles and exciting Class 3+ rapids in the last mile. This whitewater rafting trip on the Truckee River should not be confused with the self-guided float out of Tahoe City. Truckee River Whitewater Rafting trips operate from mid-May to September 30th. As water is obtained from several reservoirs and not just Lake Tahoe, this rafting trip is always available, even when the raft rentals are closed.

Upper Klamath California White Water Rafting

The Upper Klamath River is one of the best Class 4 whitewater rivers for the summer . The only “big water” summer run, with the longest rapids in the west. It is relatively uncrowded due to its location and definitely well worth the trip. The river warms up with nearly 6 miles of Class 3 rapids before tackling the big stuff. The gradient changes, and the next 6 miles offers some wild whitewater with the Class 4+ Caldera (200 yards) and Hells Corner (400 yards) being the highlights. The rapids are long and the water big.

Lower Klamath

The Lower Klamath River is an ideal multi-day white water rafting trip for families and first timers. It is an easier trip than the South Fork American River, and in a more remote setting. However, with the addition of inflatable kayaks, there can be more than enough excitement for older children. Or more experienced river runners. There are many fun whitewater rapids such as Kanaka Falls (or Rattlesnake), Devil’s Toe Nail, the Trench. Also Dragon’s Tooth, Osprey, and Sasquatch Squeeze. The Klamath River has large sandy beaches for camping and play and its waters are warm compared to most other California streams.

North Fork Yuba River

Rafting on the North Fork Yuba River offers both veterans and active first-timers, a variety of Class 3 – Class 5 whitewater thrills, from  1 – 4 days, on over 35 miles of river. Even at lower flows, the North Fork Yuba River still offers exciting rafting in smaller boats.

Safety

If you are planning to take part in a California White Water rafting experience, check out the outfitter for safety and how they maintain their equipment. If you are a first timer, you do not want to be going on a difficult set of rapids. It is preferable to build up to the various levels as you gain experience and stamina. You will also become more knowledgeable with the skills required at various levels of California White Water rafting.

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