California White Water Rafting Classes
Choosing your white water rafting trip by difficulty
Class 2, 3, 4 & 5 white water rafting trips – more options in California than any other outfitter
There are so many white water rafting trips to choose from, it helps to narrow your options based on the youngest person in the group, or if you have any non-swimmers coming with you. Our guide below will help you select the perfect rafting adventure. If you need assistance feel free to contact us.
International Scale of River Difficulty:
- Class 1 Rafting – Easy: Waves are small, regular; riffles.
- Class 2 Rafting – Medium: Rapids of medium difficulty; swift current, passages are wide and clear.
- Class 3 Rafting – Difficult: Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks, eddies, rapids with passages that are clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering.
- Class 4 Rafting – Very Difficult: Long rapids, waves powerful and irregular; dangerous rocks, boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required.
- Class 5 Rafting – Extremely Difficult: Long and violent rapids following each other almost without interruption; riverbed extremely obstructed; big drops, violent current, very steep gradient.
- Class 6 – Virtually un-navigable: The upper extreme of whitewater rivers, commercially un-runnable.
Rafting trips by levels
Class 2 Rafting Trips
- Ages 4+
- For timid older children, seniors and special needs. These trips can also be enjoyed by adults and older youths
- Inflatable Kayaks may be added for greater challenge
Class 3 Rafting Trips
- Ages 6-8 (varies)
- Best beginner rafting trips
- Best choice for groups
- OK for non swimmers when flows are at normal levels
- You definitely get wet and it’s fun and exciting
Class 4 Rafting Trips
- Ages 14+
- Adventurous first time rafters welcome
- Fun for older Scout groups
- Most popular bachelor party trips
- Swimming skills required
- Challenging and fun
Class 5 Rafting Trips
- Ages 16+
- Previous Class 4 experience required
- Strong swimming abilities required
- Mostly available in the spring
- Previous Class 4 rafting experience required
