Challenge the Whitewater on a
California River Rafting Trip
River rafting in California can be enjoyed by novices and experts alike.
The excitement of facing the wild whitewater of America's rivers is exhilarating, and California river rafting trips are no exception. The vast Golden State is home to several rivers that both experienced and beginning rafters will find challenging yet fun.
Nearly everyone can enjoy river rafting in California and most outfitters will allow children as young as approximately 6-8 years old to join in the fun. Many rapids found amidst the rivers which are most often run in California fall into the Class II and III categories (though some are much wilder!) making this activity safe for the whole family.
What Rivers Offer Whitewater Adventure?
Almost all California river rafting trips are run on rivers that are north of the central California town of Fresno, though experienced rafters may challenge the Kaweah River, located further south in Sequoia National Park.
The most popular river for this activity is the Fork American River, usually divided into sections labeled North, Middle, and South. Each section is a little different.
Novices and intermediates should check out the lower portion or South Fork American River. This is the most popular river in the state for this sport and most rapids here are Class III. It's a great place for first-timers but experienced rafters certainly won't be bored.
If you do the full length of the South Fork American River, you'll be traveling about 21 miles. Many outfitters, however, offer a 1-day, approximately 8-mile trip.
The 18-mile run on the Middle Fork American River provides a varied experience, with rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV. Adventurous rafters will love the Tunnel Chute and Ruck-a-Chucky Falls, a 25 foot drop!
The northern portion of the river is not for the faint-hearted. Rapids reach Class IV+ and there are multiple steep drops and narrow canyons.
The Merced River in the rugged Sierra foothills is also for intermediate to advanced rafters. A river rafting adventure on this body of water will put you face-to-face with some fierce Class IV rapids. Many combine this run with a visit to nearby Yosemite National Park.
Veteran rafters may want to try their hand at the California Salmon River, with its stunning scenery and challenging Class V water. The minimum age to run this river is usually about 15 or 16.
Equipment
The boats and other equipment used for your California river rafting trip will vary from outfitter to outfitter. Some use paddle boats, where everyone has the chance to paddle and the guide sits in the back and steers.
Others use oar boats, where only the guide paddles. If you're concerned about holding on, you may prefer this kind of boat as your hands will be free.
Most boats have foot holds and life jackets approved for whitewater rafting are provided for each passenger, regardless of level of experience. Guides carry plenty of additional gear in order to provide for your safety.
When to Go
River rafting in California usually begins in April and ends by mid- to late October. If you go early in the season, you'll get tossed around a bit more as the snow is still melting and running off the mountains, causing an unsteady water level.
As the weather gets hotter during the summer months, the water levels off and rafters are presented with a more consistent ride. Weekends fill up fast during the peak season, so it's best to plan ahead or choose a weekday, if possible.