Guide Rafting Whitewater

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Whitewater rafting attracts thousands of participants every year. Whitewater rafting can be safe and fun for the whole family, from the beginner to the advanced paddlers. A simple guide about Whitewater rafting follow:

Classification of Rapids:

Class I - Easy. Small waves in fast moving water. Few obstacles.
Class II – Novice. Wide channels and rapids that are easy to navigate, without many turns or obstacles. Small waves less than two feet high.
Class III - Intermediate. Strong currents require training and ability to maneuver quickly and effectively. From this class on, rafters require a guide. Not suitable for young children.
Class IV - Advanced. Powerful rapids for strong paddlers that can handle fierce turns and spins. Drops and waves are common.
Class V - Expert. Violent, dangerous rapids, usually through obstructed channels, tight turns, and soaring falls. Requires professional equipment.
Class VI - Unrunnable. Likelihood of death in attempting class 6 runs.

Types of Crafts

Kayaks – Kayaks designed for whitewater are usually shorter than sea kayaks and most are made of plastic (although fiberglass kayaks are popular among racers).

Rafts – The preferred type of craft for large groups, they are made of inflatable plastic, and can handle almost any type of current.

Catarafts -- Similar to rafts but easier to maneuver, they consist of two inflatable tubes held together by a frame.

Canoes -- Made of fiberglass or plastic, they can handle an Eskimo roll the same way kayaks do.

Fall has always been one of the most amazing months for rafting, to add to the incredible scenery, bears, mountain goats, deer, and cougars are often seen along the way. Also, during lower flow times, the big hits and tight, technical maneuvers make for a very exciting ride!”

Summer rafting is usually more calm, due to lower water volume. Some rivers provide daily dam releases from May through early October; others take advantage of melting snow (which increases water flow).

What to Bring

This varies according to the season and the company offering the trip –Some places have very specific outfit rules, and they provide some of the items in the list below, so it's always better to ask in advance. Some basics you need include:

* Wetsuit (in spring and fall); bathing suit or shorts (summer)
* Wetsuit booties or strapped sandals (no flip-flops)
* Pogies (special gloves to use when dealing with cold water)
* Polypropylene t-shirt (avoid cotton, as it takes a long time to dry)
* Wool socks and a windbreaker in spring and fall
* Waterproof sunscreen
* Bug spray
* Sunglasses (with neck strap)
* Disposable waterproof camera (do not bring any expensive equipment)
* First aid kit (if you're not going with a group)
* Fresh Water
* Depending on the location, the water may be cold even in May, so make sure you ask beforehand so you can decide what to wear.

 

Excerpts from a short essay by Diana Bocco
Occupation: Author, Instructor, Animal Activist

Diana has published over 200 short stories, essays, and features in both print and electronic publications. She was also featured in the bestselling book, Vegetarian NYC, with a foreword by Paul McCartney.

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