Choosing your California whitewater rafting trip:

We have a wide range of California rafting trips, some suitable for children from 4 years, seniors and those with special needs. We also offer some of the wildest whitewater in California, so we really have something for everyone.

Particularly for a first time trip, or if you have a larger group, err on the side of caution to ensure everyone has fun. Always consider the least experienced, most timid or least fit person in your party when making your decision. Please call or email our office if you would like assistance in choosing the most suitable trip.

If you know you want an American River Rafting trip, then go straight to Choosing Your American River Rafting Trip.

Whitewater Rafting levels of difficulty:  

Class 1-2 (Easiest/Younger Children):

- suitable for younger (under 8) or more timid children, seniors, special needs.

See Rafting with Children - easiest.

See Lower Middle Fork American River

See South Fork American River- Lotus Run

See East Fork Carson River (wilderness run only)

Class 2-3 (Easy/Beginner):

- suitable for first time rafters, corporate groups, families (kids from 7-8 years), most youth groups, bachelor parties or bachelorette parties.

- OK for non swimmers.

See Rafting with Children - easy.

See South Fork American River

See Truckee River

See Lower Klamath River

See Trinity River

 
Class 3-4 (Intermediate/Adventurous First-timers):

- suitable for adventurous first time rafters and groups, those with previous        Class 3 experience, adventure Scout groups, adventurous bachelor parties.

- Good swimming ability required.

See Rafting with Children - adventurous

See Middle Fork American River

See South/Middle American River Combo

See Upper Sacramento River

see North Yuba River (Class 4 sections only)

 
Class 4+ (Intermediate/More Difficult):

- requires previous Class 3 experience with strong swimming ability

See North Yuba River

See North Fork American River

See Upper Klamath River

See Kaweah River

 
Class 5 (Advanced/Most Difficult)

- Requires previous Class 4 experience with very strong swimming ability (may require swim tests)

see North Yuba River (Class 5 section)

See Burnt Ranch Gorge

See Cal Salmon and Scott River

 
NOTE: Early in the season (April – Mid-June), water levels may be higher if we have a large snow pack, and therefore we may raise our minimum age level, change our requirements for swimming ability or switch trips to less difficult runs.

For your safety before rafting:  

Nearly everyone can participate 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 one of our lifejackets with all buckles fastened and our regular lifejackets fit a torso circumference of 52 inches maximum. We have a few jackets that will fit up to 56” but they MUST be requested in advance. It is also important for us to know in advance about any conditions that may affect anyone from being fully able to participate to ensure the enjoyment of all our guests.

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.

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