American River White Water
Rafting
Frequently Asked Questions
We will attempt to answer many of the most commonly asked questions
regarding rafting but if you have other questions simply call EARTHTREK
EXPEDITIONS at 800-229-8735 (9-5 PM, Pacific time, Mon-Fri)
or E-mail us and we will be
happy to answer them.
WHICH IS THE BEST WHITE
WATER RAFTING TRIP?
The South Fork American
River is an excellent white water rafting trip for first time
rafters but we also recommend it for rafters of all abilities because
of its exciting and fun rapids, reliable summer water flows, comfortable
camping facilities
and economical prices. For experienced rafters looking for more
white water action we recommend the Middle
Fork and North Fork
of the American River.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO WHITE WATER
RAFTING?
Excellent rafting is available from April to October on dam controlled
rivers such as the South
and Middle Forks of the
American. Free flowing rivers, such as the North
Fork American are only available during the spring to early
summer when the Sierra snowpack is melting. For thrill seekers looking
for high water excitement we suggest booking your trip in May to
early June when the melting snow is at its peak. Summer months of
June, July and August are the most popular times to raft, especially
on weekends. If you can schedule your trip during the midweek you
will have the advantage of enjoying greater solitude on the river
at a lower cost.
HOW ARE RIVERS CLASSIFIED FOR DIFFICULTY?
The difficulty
of a river is classified on a scale of I
to VI with
I being very easy and VI
unrunnable. We have classified the rivers based on normal moderate
water flows but during times of high water river, difficulty levels
can be increased. We recommend a Class
III river for beginning rafters and a Class
IV river for experienced rafters looking for more action. Class
V river trips are reserved for expert, highly experienced rafters.
WHAT TYPE OF WHITE WATER RAFT DO I
RIDE IN?
On most Class
III and IV rivers, self-bailing paddle rafts are used for maximum
fun and excitement. Each of the 4-8 passengers has a paddle to help
power and maneuver the raft while the guide steers and directs the
crew. On high water trips or for passengers with special needs,
an oar raft where the guide rows the boat, may be used.
WHO CAN GO WHITE WATER RAFTING?
Generally, just about anyone in reasonable health and fitness can
go rafting. The minimum age for a child on a Class
III river (under normal water flows) is 8 years old (and a minimum
weight of 55 pounds) and 14 years old on a Class
IV river. There is no maximum age although anyone over 60 should
be in good health and perhaps consult with your physician if you
have any concerns. If you are pregnant, extremely overweight, or
have back or heart problems, we do not suggest a raft trip. Swimming
skills are not a requirement since your safety jacket will keep
you afloat but it is recommended that you not have a fear of the
water.
WHAT ABOUT YOUNG CHILDREN UNDER
8?
Children 8 and older are welcome on the Class III South
Fork American but for families with kids under 8 we offer our
non-rafter program where one parent pays full fare for a two day
trip and the other parent pays $54 for camping and all meals (except
day 1 lunch) and this includes no extra charge for the kids. This
program allows one parent to raft the first day and then they can
switch and the other parent rafts the second day. This program also
applies if you have a non-rafter that just wants to camp and have
meals with you, but not raft.
WHAT DO I PROVIDE?
You will be sent a checklist of what to bring when you make a reservation
or you can view a checklist on our web
site. Basically you will need to bring a sleeping bag, a foam pad
or air mattress, and your personal clothing and toiletries. A wet
suit is essential during spring trips when the water is cold and
the weather is more unpredictable. For participants of EarthTrek
operated trips, we can provide low cost rental
wet suits, tents, sleeping bags and foam sleeping pads.
ARE GROUP RATES AVAILABLE FOR COMPANY
GROUPS, CLUBS OR YOUTH GROUPS?
A river trip is the perfect activity for a group and we offer discounts
to groups starting at only six people. See our web page titled GROUPS for more details.
Special rates are also available for youth
groups such as Boy Scouts or YMCA.
BUT I STILL HAVE MORE QUESTIONS
If you have more questions, simply E-mail
us or call EarthTrek Expeditions at (800) 229-8735 and
we will be happy to answer them.
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