White water rapids are classified into class levels, starting from class I to Class VI. For beginners, it is advised that they begin their white water rafting experience on class I rapids. Class I rapids have gentle and small waves with no several obstacles but still enough to get the adrenaline pumping. White water rafting experts are allowed only to run up to class V rapids for rivers that are classified class VI are deemed unrunnable even to white water rafting experts. Class V rapids are exceedingly difficult with violent, long and continuous rapids. It has a very step gradient with the riverbed extremely obstructed. Class VI white water rapids are all that and more, that’s why no one has ever attempted to run in class VI rivers.

Like many outdoor activities such as trekking or camping, white water rafters are not allowed to take anything from the river or campsites that could alter or harm Mother Nature. White water rafting outfitters encourage their guest not to leave anything behind as well. Trash and even ash from firewood has to be kept and brought with them as soon as they leave the camping site. The only souvenir that’s safe to take are countless white water rafting photos.

With today’s technology, one can take myriad photos using a digital camera. For white water rafting participants who wish to bring their own cameras are encouraged to use cameras with waterproof casings or the underwater type. For those who don’t own waterproof cameras or are too scared to stop and take pictures while in the rapids, several outfitters can take your pictures while in action.

As participants raft and paddle their way through the exciting white water, professional photographers of outfitting companies are usually positioned at locations where participants will pass. These photographers will then take several pictures of the rafters while in action therefore capturing every grimace, excitement and whatever expression is on their faces while battling the rapids.

After the run, participants can instantly view their pictures as these are immediately uploaded into a computer. If participants want to have a copy of the photos as souvenirs, they can do so to. Rafter can select from two options on how to get their pictures: they can either have it printed or transferred to a CD. Pictures printed on the spot are water resistant while pictures copied to CDs are all high quality and in high resolution, allowing editing, printing and emailing at the heart’s content.

Go on a white water rafting adventure and you will surely be hooked. Brag about your rafting trips and accomplishments with your numerous white water rafting photos.

White water rafting has been gaining in popularity since the 1970s. Today, hundreds of tourists eagerly plunge into the white waters of rivers across the Americas, from Canada down to Chile; in Europe, from England to Turkey; in Africa, from Morocco to Zambia where the great Zambezi River flows into the Victoria Falls; and in Asia, from Nepal to Indonesia and even the Philippines.

Where there is a steep drop in the gradient of a river, the smooth water flow is disturbed. The flow speeds up considerably and creates bubbly white water. Sometimes there are huge boulders strewn all over the river. Some are above the water while others are submerged. These result to tall waves, eddies, holes, strainers, and sieves that rafters must take on. Avoiding the exposed boulders pose an additional challenge.

Rafts used for the sport are the inflatable type. They are often made of rubberized or vinyl fabrics. To prevent the total loss of air when punctured, the air chambers are divided into separate compartments. These can accommodate from 4 to 12 people with their varying lengths from 3 1/2 to 6 meters, and width from a little below 2 meters to 2 1/2.

To standardize the classification of the difficulty in running river rapids, the International Scale of River Difficulty was established. This consists of six Grades or Classes ranging from I to IV, described thus:

• Class I. Easy – waves are small with virtually no obstructions.
• Class II. Medium – moderately difficult rapids requiring some experience in rafting.
• Class III. Difficult – numerous high waves, eddies, rocks and boulders obstructing passage that need maneuvering expertise along with a good and sound raft.
• Class IV. Very Difficult – long rapids with high and irregular waves, sharp rocks with narrow openings in between, and huge eddies.
• Class V. Extremely Difficult – an almost uninterrupted series of long and violent rapids, rocks and boulder obstructions, steep gradient and even moderate drops, wild and turbulent current, all requiring an expert rafter as this is extremely dangerous and could even be fatal.
• Class VI. Unrunnable – extremely steep gradients and tall drops.

As with any other sport there are measures and equipment that could be employed for a safer white water rafting adventure. First is not to attempt to challenge a river rapid beyond your experience and capabilities. If it is your first time do not presume to take on a Class V or even IV. Go for the gentler ones and gradually work your way up. Also, listen to your guides. Their experience and knowledge in this area are your guarantee of an exciting yet challenging adventure. Finally, do not forget your helmet and personal flotation device (PFD). A rope bag, whistle, and a knife could also come in handy.

Some people envy a white water rafting guide. It seems that their everyday routine is like a vacation. Though being a white water rafting guide is fun, these guys mean serious business. They are responsible for helping their rafting participants get through the white water safely and in high spirits. The duties of a white water rafting guide includes loading rafts with all the needed equipment and double checking everything to make sure that all of the equipments, especially the raft, is safely prepared for the trip.

A white water rafting guide also meets and greets every participants, then briefs them on what to expect on a rafting trip, and of course, talk about safety issues and how to avoid accidents in the white water. Other usual work duties for several white water rafting guides includes renting out equipment, making reservations for rafting trips, working with paperwork at the company’s office. Other white water rafting guides are extremely adept in preparing different sumptuous camping meals that can be enjoyed by their guests.

The most significant task that a white water rafting guide does is making sure that all the participants are having a great time and enjoying themselves. White water rafting guides need to be pleasant and entertain guests or else they won’t come back. Most white water rafting guides who do runs in national parks even offer background information about the area and the white water itself. Having a pessimistic attitude and a dreary personality just won’t do if you want to become a white water rafting guide for every rafting run should be fun as well as adventure filled.

But there is more to becoming a white water rafting guide than just being a public relations man. Most outfitting companies do not require previous guiding experience. However, numerous trainings are required. Though some companies offer free trainings to their new recruits, the white water rafting guides should already be certified in giving First Aid and CPR in case the need arises. In addition, white water rafting guides should be in top physical and mental condition. Paddling though the white water can be physically and mentally demanding.

A white water rafting guide should never be arrogant just because he has gone on the same white water rapid run in years. In white water rafting, no two trips are the same. Something different and new always happens every time you’re out in the white water. The flow of the current may change and the participants vary.
Head to the nearest white water rafting guide school if you want to experience the outdoors at its finest.

White water rafting has different levels of difficulty depending on the degree of roughness of the water and its slope. The lower the number of the level, the easier it is. So if you are the type who is after the extreme sports then you can try and experience white water rafting levels with greater difficulty. At very turbulent rapids, white water rafting can really be dangerous especially if you are not experienced enough. There are even cases when people are involved in accidents because of white water rafting. This is due to the incontrollable rapids that can cause injuries to the rafters. It is a general characteristic for extreme sports to involve a certain degree of danger, high speed and other physical and mental exertion. This is why white water rafting is also considered as an extreme sport.

But what do you need to know about extreme white water rafting? White water rafting first started way back in 1958 where Jack Currey used a raft from balsa wood to traverse in the San Juan River in Utah. He realized that levels four and five of the white waters are too risky. So through the years he tried different materials for rafting in these difficult and turbulent rapids. He even tried ruber army surplus rafts but he realized it also has flaws which were not suitable for extreme white water rafting. In one occasion, the entire rubber floor was accidentally torn that caused a suspended wooden floor hanging from the boat frame. They realized that because of the accident, a self-bail raft was able to surpass the course while maintaining a dry and comfortable ride for the passengers. Because of this, the self-bailing rowing raft is now used and it revolutionized the industry of white water rafting.

Extreme white water rafting includes huge white water waves that cause extreme dangers to the rafters. There are also long drops that are not usually present in low levels of white water rafting. As the difficulty increases, the rafters also encounter more massive rocks that can damage their boats which add to the difficulty they have to go through. Aside from these challenges, the ride itself is one of the reasons why it is considered an extreme sport. It is a thrilling ride that gives the rafters an adrenaline rush and breathtaking experience.

Before experiencing the thrills of extreme white water rafting, consider a few things first to make sure you are safe. If you plan to have a white water rafting experience, it is better to make reservations to keep you from all the hassle caused by just walking in. As you travel to do the place, make sure you have allowance before your appointment so that you can familiarize yourself with the place to avoid getting lost. You should not also be full when you plan to go rafting. It is best if you eat a light meal. The actual activity may take from 4 to 6 hours so a light meal will just be enough. Food and drinks are not allowed on the raft itself. Since extreme white water rafting involves getting wet, it is best to wear clothes that dry quickly. Make sure that you wear water shoes or sandals that have straps so that it will not get lost as you raft down the river. Slippers are not allowed while you raft. Also make sure to bring with you dry clothes so that you can change after the raft.

Even if you plan to be into extreme white water rafting, everything starts in the beginner’s level. So before trying and challenging the big rapids of high difficulty, you should try first the lower levels of rafting. You cannot just try the level five of extreme white water rafting overnight. It also involves practice and much experience and in time you will realize that you are all set to try the next level. In a few months you will be all geared up to try the most difficult rapids not only in your place but as well as in different white water rapids all over the world. You will find that extreme white water rafting is a challenging experience that you will truly enjoy.

If you have heard of white water rafting before, then you must have an idea that it is an extreme sport which may be a bit frightening. But you don’t have to be. White water rafting is actually a sport that not all people have the luxury to try because they are unaware or what they know about this sport scares them too much. The truth is white water rafting is really not something you have to be so scared about. The main objective of white water rafting is for you to traverse down the river using a raft. But what makes it so exciting and scary at the same is the rapid water which you have to overcome. But you really don’t have to be nervous about trying it with your family because there are different levels from which you can start.

The level of the white water rivers range from level 1 to level 5. Level 1 is the easiest and it is advised for beginners. This level is usually characterized by small rapids and barely bumps in the road. So if your family is trying it for the first time you can try the level 1 rapid. This is also safe for little children which the whole family can enjoy. You can also ask the staff for rivers that are safe for young kids. So if you have little kids, you may want to ask the river rafting company for a younger set. It depends on the company whether or not they allow kids below ten years old. Some rafting companies even require children to be at least twelve years of age. If you worry too much about not being experienced in this sport, you can always have a guide with you and your family to make sure you are safe. If you want to have a bit more adventure, you can try the level 2 rapids which are more challenging than the level 1 rapid. As the level number increases, the difficulty of the rapids also becomes more challenging. Levels 4 and 5 of white water rafting are only advised to those who have much experience in this sport.

There are different places in the United States which you can enjoy white water rafting such as in Utah which includes the Colorado River, Green River, San Juan River and the Yampa River. When you choose to experience this kind of activity there are a number of things you have consider and be prepared for. The first thing is the weather and water temperature in the place. You might want to do a research on what the temperature of the place you are going to so that you can prepare appropriate clothes for you to wear. It is better to be prepared and wear layers of clothing since the temperature in these areas are usually cold. So if you find it a bit hot, you can just take off some of the layers of your clothing. It is also advisable to apply sunscreen before doing these activities to keep you protected from the heat of the sun. You can even wear a hat with a tie as you go down the river. You should remind your family to wear strapped sandals because slippers or slip-ons are not allowed in white water rafting to avoid losing them.

So you really don’t have to worry too much about trying white water rafting. It can be a fun activity for you and your family as well. Aside from the experience of the raft itself, you also have the chance to enjoy the scenery and the nature along with the river. Start looking now for a perfect white water rafting tour for your whole family to enjoy.

White water rafting began in the 1960s but it was its inclusion in the Munich Olympic Games in 1972 that provided the impetus for its development and acceptance as a recreational activity. In the succeeding decade, it became very popular not only in the United States but also in South America, Africa, and Europe.

Today, there are plenty of rafting companies all over the United States that offer white water rafting. There are almost a hundred rivers winding their way across the country that include rapids quick enough to present a challenge for white water rafters. From the West Coast through the Rocky Mountain Region and the Mid-West to the East Coast, you will find rivers with white water.

White water is classified from Grade I to VI with the former as the safest. This reflects both the difficulty and the danger of negotiating the rapid. The grade may be applied to individual rapids or to the entire river. Grade I is applied to a rapid with few rough areas that does not require maneuvering. As the rough areas increase, rocks, and small drops begin to appear, the rating is moved up to Grade II. The more and bigger there are of these, the higher the grade until it reaches Grade VI with its huge waves, huge rocks, and huge drops.

As long as you don’t dream of navigating through waves twice as tall as you, or dodging boulders the size of your house, or perhaps dropping from waterfalls as tall as the Niagara, white water river rafting is a safe sport. However, if you are a beginner without any experience, it is advisable to use the services of white water rafting companies who can outfit you with the proper gear and raft and, more important, guides who are experts in the waters. As you gain experience, you can probably venture out on your own, but keep in mind that most accidents and fatalities occur on private trips.

While it is conceded that there are inherent dangers in white water rafting, these are greatly affected by the fitness of the rafters and their propensity to panic in the face of the dangers. The grade of the white water and the temperature of the water are also important factors to consider. The quality of the safety equipment and gear are likewise important. Thus, by preparing yourself physically and mentally, by choosing the Grade of the white water suited to your experience, and by using the proper safety gear, you go a long way in minimizing the risks of the game.

If you think you can handle the dangers of white water rafting, if you are sensible enough to acknowledge your personal limitations relative to this sport, and if you are willing to listen to those with experience, then you are ready to board your raft and begin your first journey in a series of white water river rafting trips.

It is true that common backgrounds and experiences tie people together. It is also true that extraordinary experiences create extraordinary ties. Thus, white water rafting is an excellent way to strengthen the bonds among family members and friends.

There are literally hundreds of places worldwide where you can enjoy the rapids. The United States has so many whitewater rivers spread all over the country that you are never too far away from one. Canada, both eastern and western, is also host to a number of rivers. Central and South America have their own share. So do Africa, Europe, and Asia. Go further down to the South Pacific, and you will find rapids in Australia and New Zealand. Wherever you are, there is bound to be one near you.

Rapids come in six classes or grades, from Class I up to VI, increasing in difficulty with each grade. Class I has only a few riffles with no major obstructions. On the other hand, Class VI involves huge boulders, big waves, tall waterfalls, strong eddies, and powerful currents. Commercial outfitters usually do not allow rafting in Class VI rapids.

If you are new to whitewater rafting, it is best to employ the services of a reputable commercial rafting company that has a good number of years of experience in the waters. You can find plenty of these company’s websites on the Internet. You can also ask your friends if they are aware of any good whitewater rafting outfits near your location.

Do not hesitate to ask the outfitter how long he has been in business, how many trips they operate a year, or if they had any accidents in the past. Inspect their safety equipment closely. If they give you old, faded, and even broken helmets, think twice about getting into the river with them. Examine the wet suits and personal floating devices. While they need not be brand new, they should be well fitting and have no torn or ripped portions.

You will also need to decide how long you want to stay out in the river. One day expeditions are available and they usually take from two to four hours rafting. Two-day trips that feature Class III or IV rapids are also available. For those who wish to enjoy the outdoors even longer, they may opt for week-long excursions. Usually, these long vacations include different classes of whitewater, and the scenery in the area is also a major attraction of the excursion.

The longer you stay out there, the more shared experiences you will have with your family and friends. You will also have more stories to tell about the best whitewater rafting adventures you had. These will certainly help you get closer to each other.

Rivers are classified into six types, from I to VI. Class I is easiest to navigate, no major obstructions here and may even be thought of as more of a floating trip. Class VI is so rough that it is not recommended for rafting at all, not even by seasoned professionals.

The age of your family members will help define the Class you should get into. No responsible outfitter will recommend a class that is a potential danger to their guests. If your group includes children aged below eight, you will probably get a Class I or II rapids. Children aged eight to twelve may be allowed to join a group of adults in Class III white waters, while teenagers may be able to board a raft on a Class IV adventure. Your own experience in rafting will also be a factor, though if there are children in your group, it will play a less important role.

For Class IV rapids, everybody on board must know how to swim. They must be prepared for any special hazards they might encounter. For instance, if the water is extremely cold, they have to wear appropriate suits; if there are places where the water is not navigable that they have to carry their raft over sharp-edged rocks, they must have the proper footwear.

If you want to actively participate in propelling and steering your raft in the waters, choose a paddle raft, wherein each participant is given a paddle. To synchronize the paddlers motions and to tell them when and how to paddle, a professional guide calls out commands from the stern of the raft. In Class I or even II rapids, paddling isn’t too critical that the younger children can simply sit at the front and enjoy the ride. For the higher Classes, every member is expected to paddle to help propel and steer the boat.

Should you wish to simply sit back, relax and enjoy the view, you can choose an oar raft or even a motor raft. With these, there’s no need to paddle and, with the motor raft, you can even travel back upstream for another round of running the rapids. Often, outfitters recommend the motor raft if there are senior citizens in the group.

How long your vacation will take is another choice you have to make. You can choose a one-day or a one-week trip. Your children, or even you, might enjoy a night camping under the stars, cooking your food by a camp fire, and swapping white water rafting stories into the night. If you are not comfortable in a sleeping bag or in a tent, there are outfitters who provide lodgings in cabins or rooms.

Your outfitter can help you make the proper choice of the class of rapids you and your family should run, the gear you have to wear, the type of raft to use, and the length of your stay. Listen to him before you get on board, and you are sure to enjoy your white water rafting vacation.

Hundreds of enterprises have sprouted along the banks of American rivers with rapids suited to whitewater rafting. No matter where you are in the United States, you are never too far away from challenging whitewater rapids. The company’s clientele include families on an outdoor vacation, corporate employees undergoing team-building activities, even students on an excursion, and thrill-seeking adventurers.

Like any other adventure sport, there are dangers involved in whitewater rafting.
There are strainers, sweepers, holes, waves, pillows, eddies, undercut rocks, and sieves along the river which rafters must avoid. Although that looks like a long list of dangers, they are not insurmountable. Experienced guides can help you get through them. Whitewater rafting is risky enough to get your heart pounding, yet safe enough even for young children to try.

A good number of companies offer whitewater rafting tours for families. While they vary as to the age limits of children, some accept those as young as four years old. Family rafting with the kids is usually limited to mild or moderate rivers, or, in the language of experienced rafters, a Grade II or III whitewater. This adventure is usually a good bonding experience for the family. They face the same dangers as they are literally in the same boat, and also share the same exhilarating feeling as they surmount them all.

Companies offering family rafting tours often have training and experience dealing with children. They have safety gears and equipment especially suited to kids. Their guides possess the skills to teach children the ABCs of whitewater rafting, from basic safety through the right way to hold a paddle to how to properly wear their personal flotation devices (PFDs).

Group whitewater rafting tours are also available for large family reunions, bachelor or bachelorette party tours, class or club outings, or team-building activities. Often the companies offering group tours have available accommodations and facilities for their guests. They can even arrange for the transportation, logistics, and meals in addition to the gear and equipment needed for the rafting. Others have campsites where tents could be pitched. This gives guests a fuller experience of the great outdoors.

Sharing a unique and extraordinary experience spells closer connections and cooperation. It will also give the members something to talk about for a long, long time.

Firsts are always difficult to forget. First love. First car. First job. Somehow all these remain in our memories. So will your first whitewater rafting tour. And if you just can’t resist the call of the water, and perhaps you want to move up from Grade II to III, or from III to IV, all you need to do is put in a reservation for a tour. You can call, email, or fax. Get to the river, put on your helmet, sunglasses, and PFD and get on a raft. You can even sign up for a multi-day trip and have the time of your life.