How to Choose a California Whitewater Rafting Trip

June 10, 2009.

Summertime, sweet summertime: school is out, warm weather is here, and you just might be ready to sign up for that whitewater rafting trip you’ve long been considering. There’s no time like the present!

Ask yourself some questions first to help you decide what river trip is right for you. Be honest. What do you like? Are you an adrenaline junkie? Do you enjoy stepping out of your comfort zone? Are you looking for a fun, one-day rafting trip for the entire family? Have you rafted before, loved it and want to step it up a notch? Are you looking for something close to home? Are you looking for stunning scenery? Do you want to combine your river trip with another activity to turn it into a vacation?

California rivers are rated Class I – V. Here is a brief explanation of river ratings to help you decide what is right for you:

Class I – Easy flow with no rapids.
Class II – Mostly slow with a few splashes of water.
Class III – Exciting, moderate whitewater but with relatively low chance of spills.
Class IV – Heavy whitewater, boulder gardens, moderate soaking, medium- to good-sized drops.
Class V – Maximum whitewater, steep drops, massive waves, complete soaking.

Here is a partial list of California’s best whitewater rivers to consider:

The South Fork of the American River, located a short distance from Sacramento, is an ideal trip for those looking for their first whitewater rafting experience. I call it “Everyone’s Favorite River” because it has an ideal combination of fun, splashy rapids, excitement, challenge, as well as calm sections in which to have water fights or go for a swim. Its close proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area makes it a fun and easy one-day getaway. The South Fork is rated Class III.

The Merced River near Yosemite National Park is a super fun, splashy river providing playful wave trains and slick chutes. It would seem a shame not to combine a Merced River rafting trip with a night at a local lodge and a day or two exploring Yosemite National Park – the waterfalls are usually at their peak when the Merced is running. This river is dependent on Sierra snowmelt, so book early in the season! Suitable for river rafters of all abilities, the Merced is rated Class III-IV.

This section of the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River near Yosemite National Park, runs 18 miles through a true wilderness canyon – just three hours from the San Francisco Bay Area. The river flow is controlled by water releases from an upriver dam, offering some of the state’s best whitewater throughout the entire summer. The Tuolumne is rated Class III-IV.

The Middle Fork of the American River steps it up a notch. This river, located between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, offers one of the most unforgettable rapids in the state – Tunnel Chute. Technically, the rapid should be called Chute Tunnel, as you will drop down a chute (approximately 15 feet) over a distance of 80 feet, concluding with a big drop into frothy, churning water. You will then pass through a 90-ft long tunnel. This secluded river canyon is a must-do for any river runner. The Middle Fork is rated Class IV.

The Lower Klamath River offers the perfect outdoor vacation for families with young children. Located near the California-Oregon border, this river offers large, sandy beaches, pleasant swimming holes, scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities. This trip provides ample opportunities for children to gain confidence and interest in the outdoors. The Lower K is rated Class I-II.

The North Fork of the Stanislaus River is one of the most spectacular river canyons I’ve experienced – California or otherwise. You’ll have to take my word for it, because the 2009 commercial boating season ended recently. Because this river is dependent on Sierra snowmelt, it usually runs from mid-April to the beginning of June. Be sure to add this to your list of spring projects in 2010! This Class IV river offers emerald green water and thrilling, steep, technical, challenging, boulder-strewn rapids throughout the entire 5-mile run. The trip ends amidst Giant Sequoia groves in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, just up the road from dozens of Calaveras County wineries. The Stan is rated Class IV – ideal for those looking for whitewater thrills.

Tweet This Post