Beginner's Guide to Rafting

By Jackie Kochell Photo by flickr user RichardBangsAdventures

The Basics

Rafting down a river, whether through treacherous currents or turtle-paced streams, allows people get out of the daily routine and into the wild. With striking outdoor scenery and good company, a rafting trip can give you thrills as well as give you some time to clear your head. Huck Finn found his freedom once he set off down a river, and rafting can certainly do the same for everybody.

One of the benefits to rafting is that you don’t have to be in the best shape to do it. Sure, navigating through rough waters is easier when you’ve frequented the gym more than on a few rare occasions, but because rafting is a group activity, people can pick up the slack.

Trips can range from half-day getaways to multiple-week excursions. Many rafters are also avid campers. After a long day of being out in the water, sitting a warm fire and eating plenty of food are some of the most treasured memories on a rafting trip.

Holiday Options

From New Zealand to California, rafting can be done almost anywhere, as long as there’s a river. Beginners should first go on a guided tour in order to get a feel for what rafting is like. Rivers are ranked from Class I to Class VI rivers, with Class VI being the most extreme. First timers should look for a tour with a Class I or II river. Some tours can be arranged the day of, but it’s best to book in advance or call ahead to check availability. Most rafting services provide all equipment, but check to see if there are clothing requirements.

When looking for a guided tour, don’t be stingy. Rafting can be dangerous, and it’s worth spending the money on a quality tour that cares about safety. Ask the tour company how long they’ve been in service and how experienced the guides are before committing to an outing, as well as the insurance policy they have in place and risk assessment.

Rafting is known to be one of those sports that also doubles as a dedicated social network. Beginners wanting to raft without a guide should consider a rafting club in their community in order to gain sage advice and meet a few nature-loving buddies.

Children

Children can also join in, but parents should take professional advice beforehand. It is recommended that children under the age of 6 do not take part and that children know how to swim beforehand.

Kit

Preparation is the most important part of a rafting excursion. Do research on rivers so you know what to expect. There’s no turn around point on a river, so knowing what you’re up against is key. Some rivers also require permits or have special access hours.

Make sure you’ve packed everything you’ve needed, but remember that you also don’t want to lug around extra weight. Lifejackets are absolutely necessary and should always be worn. Helmets are usually worn if the river is Class III or above, and wetsuits are advisable when you know the water will be colder, or when you think you might fall in. Consider bringing a GPS in order to figure out your location if you get lost.

Because you’re out in the sun, pay attention to skin care. Wear sunscreen and bring lotion to avoid cracking on your hands and feet.

Entrapment, or getting stuck in the water in such a way that you can’t get your head above water, is the biggest danger in rafting. Bring a knife in case you need to cut someone loose from a branch or rope. Make sure your throwbag is working and that you can properly use it if you have to rescue someone.

Also, remember to PAY ATTENTION. It is easy to get distracted by breathtaking landscapes and lively conversation, but also remember to expect the unexpected.

Resources

*multidayrafting.com *rafting.co.uk/rafting.htm *waterbynature.com *greatoutdoors.com/published/the-basics-getting-started-rafting

See all rafting locations » Jackie's Selection of Places to Raft

	Rafting the Tully River Rafting in Queensland, Australia This is one of Australia’s best one day rafting trips with plenty of rapids and the good weather, towering rainforests and clear water Queensland is known for. The 45 (approx.) sets of Tully River rapids are about class three or four, but it’s a bumpy ride with white water for much of the five hour trip and there are some spectacular waterfalls and gorges on the lower end of the trip. If you’re lucky you’ll finish your trip at Mission Beach where the Tully joins the ocean. This is a really idyllic place to sit and relax after all the excitement with bright blue water and pristine sand. If you haven’t ever been rafting before you’ll still be able to paddle Tully with one of the guided trips (which can still be pretty exciting as long as the rafts aren’t too big.). Review by chris.woodgers Photo by flickr user Moody75
	Black water rafting at Waitomo Extreme Challenge in North Island, New Zealand If you’re not familiar with the idea of black water rafting, it’s got all the thrills and spills associated with the roller coaster on water that is white water rafting but in the dark and on a car inner tube. Underground rivers run through Waitomo’s Ruakuri Caves over waterfalls, rapids and round tight bends, it’s exciting but most of the thrill comes from the location and the water is relatively calm. If you’re fit and not afraid of the dark you can plummet through on this small donut of rubber, weaving, jumping, bouncing off the walls and squeezing through tight spaces and if that’s not enough adventure for you, you can also go abseiling or caving as well. It’s not totally black though, glow worms lights up parts of the subterranean tunnels and you’re given a miners hat with a light to wear, which is very fetching with your wetsuit. Journeys end is the Waitomo forest. Several companies offer this experience, packed in a variety of ways with abseiling, walking and climbing in the caves, all gear id provided. Review by Worldreviewer Photo by flickr user m0bile
	Kern River Rafting Rafting in Bakersfield, United States California is full of great rivers and plenty of rafting. Two of the best locations for rafting in California are the America River in Northern California, and the Kern River, located in the heart of Sequoia National Forest near Southern California. The Kern River is know for its fast flowing, heart-pounding whitewater adventure. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a visit to California rivers. The Kern River is mostly for those with previous whitewater experience. Some trips may have minimum age limits. Review by Ryan Hutchings Photo by flickr user Anna Majkowska
	Rafting on the Nahanni River Rafting in Northwest Territory, Canada Canada is truly a hidden gem for river rafting. The Yukon and Northwest Territories in Northern Canada are long expeditions that take you through the heart of Canada’s outback. These river trips are long expeditions down rivers and through lakes, with the opportunity to see wildlife and nature as it is meant to be. Waterfalls, icebergs, canyons and mountains adorn the lush scenery and make every trip a memorable experience. These trips are usually mild whitewater, with a focus on destinations, scenery and wildlife. Trips are usually around 8-12 days. Review by Ryan Hutchings Photo by flickr user www.paata.ge
	Canolfan Tryweryn Rafting Rafting in Wales, United Kingdom The section of the Canolfan Tryweryn to ride is beneath a dam which means that even when other rivers are losing their white water and morphing into a gentle trickle, the river here is still roaring. It also means you can raft here all year round. The watery path looks thrilling as much as anything else, steep, rocky and fast flowing and Snowdonia National Park provides a bold backdrop. Canolfan Trywern also has a well respected training centre for people needing a few pointers before taking to the water. Review by Worldreviewer Photo by -2