The American River is the scene for river rafting California enthusiasts that are looking for the excitement from very possible class of whitewater. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time in a rubber raft or if you are a seasoned boater, this river has whitewater that will challenge you. There are 6 classes of whitewater that are recognized internationally.
Class 1: No skill level is required to maneuver these very small rough areas.
Class 2: Basic paddling skills are required for maneuvering some rough water and possibly rocks.
Class 3: Experienced paddling skills are needed to handle whitewater, some waves and a possible short drop without noteworthy danger.
Class 4: You need to have whitewater skill to make it through this whitewater with medium waves, likely some rocks and a considerable drop with sharp maneuvers.
Class 5: Only advanced whitewater enthusiasts need attempt to maneuver this whitewater with large waves, large rocks and hazards and large drops with precision.
Class 6: You have to be either exceptionally skilled or lucky to make it through whitewater at this level. It is practically beyond navigation and is so dangerous the end result is usually serious injury or death. (Certain sections of the American River are off-limits when they reach this class during low water seasons.) These substantial rough waters include huge waves, enormous rocks and hazards. The drops are so severe that the rafts will typically sustain structural damage beyond repair from the impact. River rafting California participants beware!
River rafting California is in general an outdoor sports activity using an inflatable rubber raft to navigate (in this case) the American River. The buzz comes from the fact that it’s done on whitewater, or rough water of varying degrees in order to give the participants a thrill they will remember for a long time after the adventure is over. In general, river rafting first gained its reputation as a popular outdoor leisure sport in the 1970’s.
Rafting is historically one of the earliest methods used to transport people and food. The logs rafts that were taken out for hunting expeditions don’t compete with the state-of-the-art rubber rafts that are available now. The first indication of things to come took place in 1842 when Lieutenant John Fremont of the U.S. Army constructed a raft from independent rubber cloth tubes and wrap-around floor. His raft evolved into the modern durable, multi-layered rubberized or vinyl fabric version with multiple air chambers.
In 1992 river rafting on whitewater was included in the Barcelona Games and then in the Atlanta Games of 1996. The International Federation of Rafting was formed in 1997. The first Official International Championship was held in 1999. River rafting California
has been recognized as an extreme outdoor sport that requires endurance, skill and the ability to assess a situation and make decisions in a split second. It is not for the faint of heart.
California’s American River offers a thrill to outdoor sports enthusiasts that are looking for wild adventure. There are some essential items that will make you feel more comfortable and have a great experience, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned rafter. Regardless of the length of your trip, you’ll be out on open water and totally exposed to the sun. The water will magnify the effect of the sun’s rays, so be sure to take along plenty of protection – sunscreen lotion, a hat and sunglasses.
If the weather turns out to be a little cooler than you can handle take along a wet suit or paddling jacket. This will keep you dry and insulate you from the weather. Foot gear is really important. You’ll need to wear shoes or sandals that can get wet and stay on your feet, while being comfortable enough to climb on rocks or walk on a sandy beach.
For sleeping at night a good lightweight tent will suffice. You’ll need a sleeping bag with an insulation value appropriate for the temperature and a pad. Take changes of clothing that are light to pack and can be added as layers if you get a chill. Your clothes need to be durable and designed for intense activity. If you own a camera bring it with you! You’ll want to take a lot of pictures on your river rafting California trip. The outdoor settings on the American River are spectacular and your pictures will help to remind you of the thrills you experienced.
Whitewater rafting is one of the most thrilling, yet one of the most dangerous sports. It can be considered an extreme sport. It might not be as dangerous as skydiving, but it can be quite scary if the proper safety precautions are ignored. If you are a novice rafter it’s best not to try to “shoot the moon” on your first trip. Start by honestly admitting to your guide how well you can swim and your level of physical endurance.
No matter how experienced you are, don’t make the mistake of presuming you know more than your guide. They are responsible for everyone’s safety in the raft and the more willing each person on the trip is to cooperate; the better it will go for the group. A professional guide is required to pass certain levels of qualification that permit them to do their job knowledgeably.
River rafting California is an awesome experience, but it takes skill and care to safely maneuver some of the American River’s most challenging sections of whitewater. The adrenalin rush that happens when taking on Mother Nature’s most dangerous elements is so intense it can take over. No matter how enthusiastic you become in the thrill of the moment, keep constant attention on your personal safety and on the safety of the others with you. This is the best way to avoid situations of stress and injury while having formidable experiences with one the most adventurous outdoor sports.�
The American River is the favorite of everyone for white water rafting in California. The river starts out in the high Sierra Nevada, Tahoe and El Dorado National Forests, a little west of Lake Tahoe. It has three primary forks, dubbed “South,” “Middle” and “North” that flow through the Sierra foothills to meet up again just east of Sacramento. Each branch of the river presents a unique experience with breath-taking natural scenery.
Northern California benefits from the magnificent river by the power and irrigation it provides and as a fantastic resource for recreation. It is the motivating factor that causes avid and newbie white water rafters flock to the state for a sensational river rafting California experience.
The South Fork is the best branch of the river for rafters of all levels of expertise, including novices. It is the most popular river west of the Rockies where professional river guides lead ½ day to 2 day adventures for white water thrill seekers. The Middle Fork offers a more challenging run for rafters with more experience and although much of the land around it is privately owned, it is open to all boaters that enjoy a test. The North Fork offers a wild quest for only the most highly experienced experts. It becomes a spectacular region to hike in the summer when the low water levels make it impossible to raft. The American River has it all!
River Rafting California is a Fun Family Adventure
River Rafting California is a fun family outing that will make for memorable summer memories. Located on the South banks of the American River in California, Whitewater Connections offers whitewater rafting packages.
Trip Packages Available for Families
The high summer temperatures are ideal River Rafting California weather. Whether rafters are skilled class 4 experts or beginners, Whitewater Connections has trips available for families of all skill levels and offers family discount rates (children under 16 years old accompanied by an adult receive a 20% discount).
River Rafting California trip packages include the following locations on the American River:
- South Fork American: Class 3 (April-October); Ideal for families, 21 River miles, one or two day trips available
- Middle Fork American: Class 3-4 (May-September); 18 River miles, one or two day and combination South/Middle Fork trips available
- North Fork American: Class 4 (April-May, sometimes early June); 9 River miles, one day and South/North Fork or North/Middle Fork trips combination trips available
Whitewater Connections also offers River Rafting California packages along the Upper Klamath, California Salmon and Kaweah Rivers located across California.
Modern Amenities Included in Trip Packages
Whitewater Connections offers River Rafting California packages and amenities that appeal to the entire family (including kids and grandparents).
When rafters embark on their River Rafting California adventure, they can enjoy gourmet meals, hot showers, flush toilets and will be guided by expert white water guides.
Choose River Rafting California for Your Next Family Adventure
Whitewater Connections offers a perfect family environment on a lush private 40-acre base camp. Whether your family is made up of novice rafters or seasoned Class Level 4 experts, you’ll find a River Rafting California adventure waiting for you on the rapids this summer when you choose a Whitewater Connections trip.
Rafters will find high quality services offered by Whitewater Connections between their friendly staff and attention to details, families will experience an unforgettable River Rafting California experience.
Fun Family Adventure
River Rafting California is a fun family outing that will make for memorable summer memories. Located 
on the South banks of the American River in California, Whitewater Connections offers whitewater rafting packages.
Trip Packages Available for Families
The high summer temperatures are ideal River Rafting California weather. Whether rafters are skilled class 4 experts or beginners, Whitewater Connections has trips available for families of all skill levels and offers family discount rates (children under 16 years old accompanied by an adult receive a 20% discount).
River Rafting California trip packages include the following locations on the American River:
- South Fork American: Class 3 (April-October); Ideal for families, 21 River miles, one or two day trips available
- Middle Fork American: Class 3-4 (May-September); 18 River miles, one or two day and combination South/Middle Fork trips available
- North Fork American: Class 4 (April-May, sometimes early June); 9 River miles, one day and South/North Fork or North/Middle Fork trips combination trips available
Whitewater Connections also offers River Rafting California packages along the Upper Klamath, California Salmon and Kaweah Rivers located across California.
Modern Amenities Included in Trip Packages
Whitewater Connections offers River Rafting California packages and amenities that appeal to the entire family (including kids and grandparents).
When rafters embark on their River Rafting California adventure, they can enjoy gourmet meals, hot showers, flush toilets and will be guided by expert white water guides.
Choose River Rafting California for Your Next Family Adventure
Whitewater Connections offers a perfect family environment on a lush private 40-acre base camp. Whether your family is made up of novice rafters or seasoned Class Level 4 experts, you’ll find a River Rafting California adventure waiting for you on the rapids this summer when you choose a Whitewater Connections trip.
Rafters will find high quality services offered by Whitewater Connections between their friendly staff and attention to details, families will experience an unforgettable River Rafting California experience.
Reserve online now or call Whitewater Connection at 1.800.336.7238 for River Rafting California half day, 1 day & 2 day trips.