Rafting on the Kaweah River offers exciting Class 4-4+ raft trips on 10 miles of snow melt water running from the majestic 12,000 foot peaks in Sequoia National Park. Previous paddling experience is preferred for Kaweah rafting trips due to the level of difficulty and non-stop action. It is best run by the intermediate and expert rafter, who are strong swimmers, in good physical condition, hardy and adventurous.
For the suitably qualified, the Kaweah River offers some of the best white water rafting in Central and Southern California. Dropping at 85 feet per mile in its first few miles, it is one of America’s steepest rivers. The scenery is good, and though there are private residences and Highway 198 alongside for much of the run, they are not obtrusive.
With Los Angeles and Southern California close-by, the Kaweah River offers a great opportunity to combine a whitewater adventure with an excursion to the majestic trees and mountains of the Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. The meeting location is in the town of Three Rivers, which was founded as an idealist colony in the 1880’s. It features a fine array of eateries and galleries strung out along the Kaweah River. There are numerous campground and accommodation options in Three Rivers and nearby in Sequoia National Park.