Short Answer: Whitewater rafting is about the best thing in the world. And you need to go do it immediately!
Long Answer: Whitewater rafting is an exciting outdoor adventure sport involving navigating a river and its rapids via an inflatable raft. Through the logistical challenges and required teamwork that this sport entails, whitewater rafting brings people together in an unimaginable way.
When you’re on a rafting trip, you are able to travel to beautiful places that would otherwise not be possible for humans to easily get to.
What does it mean to go whitewater rafting?
“Whitewater” refers to the turbulent water created when a river’s gradient steepens and flows over obstacles in the water.
If you see bubbles, splashes, and turbulent currents, it is considered to be whitewater.
These obstacles that create the whitewater are generally rocks and boulders. However, they could also be items like tree trucks and debris.
People float down the river in an inflatable raft that can typically hold anywhere from 1 to 9 people. There are rafts specifically designed to carry light loads and fewer people as well as rafts designed to carry thousands of pounds of gear and large groups.
You’ll know whitewater when you see it because waves will splash, which entraps air bubbles in the water, giving it a white appearance.
A whitewater river generally has several rapids, creating plenty of opportunities for a turbulent ride.
Navigating the river and its rapids can also be called running the river.
Running rapids in a raft can be thrilling but also challenging and dangerous. The best way to begin whitewater rafting is by hiring an experienced whitewater river guide. Guides are trained to navigate whitewater, safety protocols, and various rescue techniques. They are generally also entertaining and kind people!
Rafting trips typically take place on rivers with varying levels of difficulty, which are categorized using the International Scale of River Difficulty.
CLASS OF River RAPIDS
This scale ranges from Class I (easy and gentle) to Class VI (extremely difficult and dangerous). Each class represents different challenges, ranging from simple waves and clear channels to technical maneuvers through powerful currents and obstacles.
The above video is one of us paddling an RMR Phat Cat down the Poudre River on a July Day. The rapids in this video are class III and IV whitewater.
A good starting spot for people new to the sport is rivers with Class I and II rapids. For thrill-seekers, a guide can take you down Class III and IV rapids.
Class V rapids are only for expert river runners. Class V rapids involve severe consequences for any swimming paddlers. Class VI rapids are extremely dangerous and are rarely attempted.
In all instances, people should wear a PFD (personal floatation device) and, in most instances, a helmet. On some Class I and II whitewater, helmets are not deemed necessary but are never a bad idea.
Read more about what to wear when rafting in this article.
There are several other safety measures to take when whitewater rafting, including having a throw bag, a first aid kit, a dry bag, and extra dry/warm clothes. We also recommend bringing a satellite communication device for emergencies in areas outside of cell service.
WHAT KIND OF RAFTS are best for whitewater rafting?
For most Western United States whitewater rivers, people use rafts between 9 and 14 feet long. It is also possible to go whitewater rafting in smaller or larger boats.
On rivers such as the Colorado River that runs through the Grand Canyon, it is not uncommon to use a boat as long as 18 feet.
When paddle rafting consequential whitewater in Colorado, people often use smaller boats in the 9-12 foot range.
People also run whitewater in inflatable kayaks, hard-sided kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and tubes. No matter the watercraft, running water can be exhilarating and peaceful.
In Colorado, where we primarily go rafting, many people consider the most versatile whitewater raft to be around 12 feet long.
A 12-foot boat of this size can hold up to 5 passengers when paddle rafting. Or when oar-rigging, it can hold two people comfortably with hundreds of pounds of gear for multi-day expeditions. Read more here about the differences between paddle rafting and oar-rig rafting.
IN SUMMARY
Whitewater rafting offers participants an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of river landscapes while experiencing an adrenaline rush as they conquer challenging rapids.
Whether you’re a seasoned rafter seeking the thrill of Class V rapids or a newcomer looking for a gentle introduction to the sport, whitewater rafting promises an unforgettable adventure that combines excitement, teamwork, and a deep connection with the outdoors.