Rafting is an exhilarating and fun experience for everyone. Rafters often come to different rivers all over the country to respect the power of the water while enjoying serene surroundings that are only broken by the sound of the rushing waters. Although it looks dangerous, this type of adventure is actually available for the whole family. Young and adults, novice and experts could enjoy the waters while being close to nature like never before.
Rafting: The Basics
White water rafting is an activity wherein an individual or a group maneuvers through the river usually using their paddles while inflatable boats. Rafting or whitewater rafting is done as a hobby itself or as means of going through the river while enjoying the surroundings.
Rivers are classified based on the challenges such as rocks, waves and the requirement for maneuver. There are six classes wherein class six is the most dangerous and never recommended for anyone while class one is a type of river that provides little to no waves. No skills and small amounts of maneuvering are needed for class one. As the class increases, the danger also increases which requires more skills and experience for rafting.
Class 1 has manageable rough areas which require no skill level.
Class 2 requires maneuvering but still good enough for beginners.
Class 3 is already rough for first time rafters since advanced paddling skills are required.
Class 4 has stronger waves, rocks and possible drops which is only ideal for experienced rafters.
Class 5 features large rocks, stronger waves and deep drops. Only rafters with advanced experience and skills should consider going through this class.
Class 6 is very dangerous and could be fatal. Even with great skill and experience, the waters and condition is very dangerous.
Popular White Water Rafting Destinations
There are hundreds of white water destinations around the country. However, there are places that have gained the distinction of being family friendly while providing challenges for thrill seekers.
The US will always have some of the world’s best white water rafting destinations. Active participation from the government and strict implementation of rules has preserved these mighty yet gentle rivers.
1. Trinity River California – A perfect destination for the family, Trinity River is a serene family destination offering mile after mile of natural beauty. The trees offer an amazing backdrop to the consistent but slow river. There are spots in Trinity River that are great for canoeing while others for rafting. Parts of Trinity River have Class 2 – 3 waters.
2. Colorado River, Colorado – Less than three hours from Denver, Colorado River is the haven for white water rafting enthusiasts. There are parts where class 5 water conditions which only for the experienced and parts which feature class 4 waters. But don’t just behold the power of water in Colorado. The canyons in this park are breathtaking. There are a good number of canyons in Colorado River that you should get a guide to visit these beautiful canyons in the park. You may stay here for the night to fully enjoy what Colorado River has to offer.
3. San Miguel River, Colorado – if Colorado River is too strong for you, head on to San Miguel River. Anything that Colorado River doesn’t offer in terms of waters is there. The waters are ideal for beginners and family as the waters are usually graded class 2 to 3. The wildlife is very strong in this area so it’s possible to spot certain animals such as elk or even bears.
4. Salmon River, Idaho – this river is one of the biggest in the country. Salmon River runs through a forest that’s measure 2.3 million acres. The Salmon River will provide an exhilarating experience with their class 3 to 4 rivers. But families will still like the waters in this area since there are stretches that could accommodate their skills. Besides the strong and challenging waters for everyone, the 2.3 million acres is home to some of the country’s deepest gorges while its mountains, particularly the Sawtooth Mountains offer a breathtaking view of the area. Because of the size of Salmon River, a two day trip is never enough. Most of the vacation trips here last for at least three days.
5. Kennebec River, Maine – Go up north and you’ll have a great rafting experience in Kennebec River. The place is three hours by car from Portland and less than three hours from Canada. For a day or two, experience rafters as well as families could have fun in this river. The water here is controlled by a nearby dam so water conditions are always stable. The river is full life in the vast Kennebec River as river otters and Atlantic salmon could be spotted here.
Rafting Safety
Safety is always the priority of the guides as well as professional rafters. Helmets and life jackets are very important during rafting even in Class 1 rivers. Pointed objects should never be brought to the boat as this could be dangerous if the boat strikes against hard objects. Information is also the key to safety. Check the conditions of the river before visiting the area. Extra caution has to be done when traveling with the family. Most guides follow the strict rule of the minimum age for rafting. Knowing the age restriction will also prevent frustration on location.
Rafting Vacation Options
Depending on location, your rafting vacation could only last for a day, overnight or multiple nights. If you and your family are only here for rafting, then a half day adventure in the water should be more than enough. However, there are multiday trips that would be perfect during the summer. It may require hiking but guides are smart enough to get you to the most scenic places with different water challenges as fast as possible. Your trip could be very comfortable if you have the budget since your traveling company will bring the food and supplies to you, but you can still enjoy the scenery if you don’t have a good budget. The only difference is the comfort of traveling since you might have to bring your own food and supplies for cheaper multiday trips.
White water rafting is a great activity that could be enjoyed by the whole family every summer. Through careful planning and observing safety during the entire trip, rafting will never be dangerous but a fun activity for the whole family.
Author Resource:-
Paul Kapschock is a master rafter and has started a series of articles for rafting vacations. He is working on a Grand Canyon rafting vacations article and has published this article as the 1st in a series on rafting fun and adventure. Please view his website at: http://www.RaftingVacations.org
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