Whitewater Rafting FAQ and Things To Know

January 17, 2010 - 10:50am — Matt Kegelman
Whitewater rafting, rapids and thrills!

Read this Whitewater Rafting FAQ to learn the answers, tips and tricks you'll need to make your next whitewater adventure the most enjoyable experience possible. Ride the rapids with confidence!

To have an extraordinary whitewater adventure in Maine, visit our sponsor Northern Outdoors!

List of Frequenty Asked Questions about Whitewater Rafting

How much does it cost to go whitewater rafting?

Prices vary depending on the region and when it is you want to go rafting. But generally the price per adult for one short rafting trip ranges from 35 to 85 US Dollars. Prices go up during the regular season (when the water is warmer in the summer). Also you should know that you can go on a number of different types of rafting trips—some only last for an hour or two, some are a half-day (lunch is usually included, so the price reflects this), and others go on for the entire day (5 hours+ and a long car-ride home to wherever it was you left your car); still others can last up to a week or even longer! A full-day trip usually costs between 200 and 300 US Dollars per person. Week long excursions are more.

Is my raft going to sink once it fills with water?

No, not if you have a self-bailing raft. This technology has made whitewater rafting a lot more fun, because you don’t have to bring a bunch of buckets along anymore! What “self-bailing” means has nothing to do with the raft tipping and people having to bail out! Rather, it means that any water that splashes up into the raft immediately gets bailed out of the raft by a special one-way valve mechanism. All modern rafting companies use only self-bailing boats—so you don’t have any reason to fear your raft filling up with too much water and getting so heavy that it goes under.

Am I going to be thrown overboard?

Most likely, no. Though there still is a (slight to moderate) chance you will (depending on the severity of the rapids). But, if you are smart about it, and: Do not attempt rapids that are too difficult for your skill level—it would be a good idea to consult the GettingOutside.com Whitewater Rapids Class I-VI Guide to see where you fit in!—then you will still be safe even if you end up getting tossed overboard!

How do I prepare for a whitewater rafting journey?

Rafting guides or your outfitter will instruct you in how to float (feet up, head back) in case you end up in the water. And they will navigate the boat to where other rafters and the guide will pull you back in. There is really nothing to worry about when going whitewater rafting. This article will alleviate any concerns of yours—a conservative estimate reveals there is only a 0.044% percent chance of getting injured whitewater rafting—unless you are an extreme kayaker or someone who goes rafting without a guide and ends up encountering rapids that are above your difficulty level (your chances then are worse).

http://www.wemjournal.org/wmsonline/?request=get-document&issn=1080-6032...

Can I bring or consume any alcohol on my whitewater rafting journey?

Do not consume any alcohol or drugs before going whitewater rafting. And always exercise your best judgment. Some whitewater rafting journey’s do permit passengers to bring along alcoholic beverages, but these are to be consumed after the journey is over, only once an appropriate campsite has been set up for a period of rest.

Really, I need to know: How safe is whitewater rafting?

The majority of the injuries that occur while whitewater rafting are not serious. The two most often reported injuries are not actually caused by rocks or water. In fact, they are caused by the paddle. (Blisters and bruises from being struck by someone else’s paddle:)

When rafters get excited after being jostled, sometimes they loose control of their paddle and it can hit other rafters... This is why helmets are worn (not only to protect you from rocks, but to protect you from the guy or gal sitting next to you)!

With that being said, there is still a slight possibility that a raft will tip and passengers will be thrown in the water. This is a moderately to highly dangerous activity. You should:

Be prepared! Always wear a PFD and a Helmet. And, please, for your own safety:

Consult our Whitewater Rapids Rating Guide to determine what type of rapids you are ready to try.

As long as you know what you are getting yourself into, only attempt rapids which you feel 100% comfortable navigating (or go along with a tour guide or a group of other experience rafters), and wear a securely fastened lifejacket, there is little chance of injury (serious or minor, if you discount blisters), according to a medical study.

Do I have to be a good swimmer if I want to go whitewater rafting?

Use common sense. Don't get in over your head. If you know you are not good in the water, it would be wise to stick to a level of rafting where you will not be getting thrown around very much. Levels one and two are still very exciting and you will get wet—but probably not thrown out of the raft!

Before you decide, consult your tour guide or outfitter.

Don’t feel like just because you aren’t a strong swimmer you can’t still have fun going whitewater rafting. Everyone is required to wear a Personal Floatation Device, regardless of their experience in the water.

If you do end up in the water, don't panic! Float with your feet up and forward (so they don't get snagged on rocks or branches), and with your head back so it is protected. Wait for your tour guide and/or rafting group to assist you back into the raft.

Do I have to paddle? (Or can I just go along for the ride?)

You should know what type of boat you are in and whether or not you are going to have paddling responsibilities before you go whitewater rafting. In paddle rafts, naturally enough, you will have to paddle, but in an Oar raft, you will be free to just sit back and let the river guide take you on a whitewater-rollercoaster-ride! If you are just looking to do down a river to go sight-seeing or to experience the canyon river ecosystem first hand, then look to get yourself on a tour that lets you ride on a luxurious Rig or Pontoon Boat. Click here to visit our page about the different types of whitewater rafts.


Where can I go Whitewater Rafting?

All over the United States, in Canada, and even in some places in South America. Just because you don’t live near Colorado or the Grand Canyon doesn’t mean there isn’t a spot near you that provides you with the opportunity to go Whitewater Rafting! Some states most people wouldn’t think have whitewater rafting tours include: New Jersey, Tennessee, Connecticut, and Wyoming. There are literally hundreds of places to go rafting in the US.

What should I wear to go whitewater rafting?

The two best clothing options for whitewater rafting are wool and polypropylene. It’s a good idea to dress in a few layers. Avoid wearing cotton. You can even replace cotton underwear with a bathing suit or pair of “quick-dry” athletic shorts. Choosing the right footwear is important too. You can wear an old pair of sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet, water shoes, or even sandals. Although you are usually sitting down when you go rafting, having some foot protection and grip for securely lodging your feet in the raft is very important.

Should I rent a wetsuit? (Or [for avid surfers] bring my own?)

Wherever it is going to be somewhat cool, we at GettingOutside.com strongly suggest you rent a wetsuit. Since rafting is best when the water levels are higher, and this is usually in the Spring after the snow melts (you get the resulting run off from thawed glaciers and mountain snow). And think! What temperature is that water going to be? You know: Not very warm! (maybe only 50 – 65 degrees) So if you are going whitewater rafting, remember, the outfitters are not trying to scam you into renting a wetsuit—to the contrary—they are trying to make sure you have an enjoyable experience! So consider renting or bringing your wetsuit whenever you feel there might be even the slightest need for one (check weather reports, because if it is going to start raining at the beginning of your 6 hour long trek down a river, then you are going to be awful sore if you do not opt to rent the wetsuit from the get-go)! It’s just a good idea to have one on.

What are the most important things I should know about going Whitewater Rafting?

  • It’s fun! Truly a wet and wild rush of excitement like none other.
  • It’s safe and exciting for the whole family! (kids must be 5 or older)
  • Be prepared: You are going to get wet! You might even end up in the water (in some instances people fall out of their whitewater raft but)
  • Do not panic! As long as you have the help of a whitewater guide on hand, they will assist you and get you back in the raft in the event that you do fall in the water. And if you are an experienced whitewater rafter—Remember, go with a group of other rafters in case you get in trouble. And do not attempt anything too risky—think to yourself, “Would mom approve of me attempting this?”
  • Be smart: Do not consume any drugs or alcohol before or while whitewater rafting – and always heed warnings about water conditions and
  • Follow all safety precautions (always wear a helmet and a PDF at ALL TIMES, and always have a throw rope in the raft in case someone goes overboard!) to ensure you
  • Have a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable experience!

To have an extraordinary whitewater adventure in Maine, visit our sponsor Northern Outdoors!

Your rating: None Average: 5 (1 vote)
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Calendar of Events

Can't Wait to Go Camping This Spring!

March 2, 2010 - 9:43pm — Don Neske

With Spring around the corner, all I can think about is getting outside for some camping, hiking and general relaxing.

But, this year, I really want to try some new places.

Anyone know any new places in Eastern PA, New Jersey, DE, MD, or Southern New York? If so, I'd love to hear about them.

 

Whitewater Rafting FAQ and Things To Know

January 17, 2010 - 10:50am — Matt Kegelman
Whitewater rafting, rapids and thrills!

Read this Whitewater Rafting FAQ to learn the answers, tips and tricks you'll need to make your next whitewater adventure the most enjoyable experience possible. Ride the rapids with confidence!

To have an extraordinary whitewater adventure in Maine, visit our sponsor Northern Outdoors!

List of Frequenty Asked Questions about Whitewater Rafting

How much does it cost to go whitewater rafting?

Prices vary depending on the region and when it is you want to go rafting. But generally the price per adult for one short rafting trip ranges from 35 to 85 US Dollars. Prices go up during the regular season (when the water is warmer in the summer). Also you should know that you can go on a number of different types of rafting trips—some only last for an hour or two, some are a half-day (lunch is usually included, so the price reflects this), and others go on for the entire day (5 hours+ and a long car-ride home to wherever it was you left your car); still others can last up to a week or even longer! A full-day trip usually costs between 200 and 300 US Dollars per person. Week long excursions are more.

Is my raft going to sink once it fills with water?

No, not if you have a self-bailing raft. This technology has made whitewater rafting a lot more fun, because you don’t have to bring a bunch of buckets along anymore! What “self-bailing” means has nothing to do with the raft tipping and people having to bail out! Rather, it means that any water that splashes up into the raft immediately gets bailed out of the raft by a special one-way valve mechanism. All modern rafting companies use only self-bailing boats—so you don’t have any reason to fear your raft filling up with too much water and getting so heavy that it goes under.

Am I going to be thrown overboard?

Most likely, no. Though there still is a (slight to moderate) chance you will (depending on the severity of the rapids). But, if you are smart about it, and: Do not attempt rapids that are too difficult for your skill level—it would be a good idea to consult the GettingOutside.com Whitewater Rapids Class I-VI Guide to see where you fit in!—then you will still be safe even if you end up getting tossed overboard!

How do I prepare for a whitewater rafting journey?

Rafting guides or your outfitter will instruct you in how to float (feet up, head back) in case you end up in the water. And they will navigate the boat to where other rafters and the guide will pull you back in. There is really nothing to worry about when going whitewater rafting. This article will alleviate any concerns of yours—a conservative estimate reveals there is only a 0.044% percent chance of getting injured whitewater rafting—unless you are an extreme kayaker or someone who goes rafting without a guide and ends up encountering rapids that are above your difficulty level (your chances then are worse).

http://www.wemjournal.org/wmsonline/?request=get-document&issn=1080-6032...

Can I bring or consume any alcohol on my whitewater rafting journey?

Do not consume any alcohol or drugs before going whitewater rafting. And always exercise your best judgment. Some whitewater rafting journey’s do permit passengers to bring along alcoholic beverages, but these are to be consumed after the journey is over, only once an appropriate campsite has been set up for a period of rest.

Really, I need to know: How safe is whitewater rafting?

The majority of the injuries that occur while whitewater rafting are not serious. The two most often reported injuries are not actually caused by rocks or water. In fact, they are caused by the paddle. (Blisters and bruises from being struck by someone else’s paddle:)

When rafters get excited after being jostled, sometimes they loose control of their paddle and it can hit other rafters... This is why helmets are worn (not only to protect you from rocks, but to protect you from the guy or gal sitting next to you)!

With that being said, there is still a slight possibility that a raft will tip and passengers will be thrown in the water. This is a moderately to highly dangerous activity. You should:

Be prepared! Always wear a PFD and a Helmet. And, please, for your own safety:

Consult our Whitewater Rapids Rating Guide to determine what type of rapids you are ready to try.

As long as you know what you are getting yourself into, only attempt rapids which you feel 100% comfortable navigating (or go along with a tour guide or a group of other experience rafters), and wear a securely fastened lifejacket, there is little chance of injury (serious or minor, if you discount blisters), according to a medical study.

Do I have to be a good swimmer if I want to go whitewater rafting?

Use common sense. Don't get in over your head. If you know you are not good in the water, it would be wise to stick to a level of rafting where you will not be getting thrown around very much. Levels one and two are still very exciting and you will get wet—but probably not thrown out of the raft!

Before you decide, consult your tour guide or outfitter.

Don’t feel like just because you aren’t a strong swimmer you can’t still have fun going whitewater rafting. Everyone is required to wear a Personal Floatation Device, regardless of their experience in the water.

If you do end up in the water, don't panic! Float with your feet up and forward (so they don't get snagged on rocks or branches), and with your head back so it is protected. Wait for your tour guide and/or rafting group to assist you back into the raft.

Do I have to paddle? (Or can I just go along for the ride?)

You should know what type of boat you are in and whether or not you are going to have paddling responsibilities before you go whitewater rafting. In paddle rafts, naturally enough, you will have to paddle, but in an Oar raft, you will be free to just sit back and let the river guide take you on a whitewater-rollercoaster-ride! If you are just looking to do down a river to go sight-seeing or to experience the canyon river ecosystem first hand, then look to get yourself on a tour that lets you ride on a luxurious Rig or Pontoon Boat. Click here to visit our page about the different types of whitewater rafts.


Where can I go Whitewater Rafting?

All over the United States, in Canada, and even in some places in South America. Just because you don’t live near Colorado or the Grand Canyon doesn’t mean there isn’t a spot near you that provides you with the opportunity to go Whitewater Rafting! Some states most people wouldn’t think have whitewater rafting tours include: New Jersey, Tennessee, Connecticut, and Wyoming. There are literally hundreds of places to go rafting in the US.

What should I wear to go whitewater rafting?

The two best clothing options for whitewater rafting are wool and polypropylene. It’s a good idea to dress in a few layers. Avoid wearing cotton. You can even replace cotton underwear with a bathing suit or pair of “quick-dry” athletic shorts. Choosing the right footwear is important too. You can wear an old pair of sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet, water shoes, or even sandals. Although you are usually sitting down when you go rafting, having some foot protection and grip for securely lodging your feet in the raft is very important.

Should I rent a wetsuit? (Or [for avid surfers] bring my own?)

Wherever it is going to be somewhat cool, we at GettingOutside.com strongly suggest you rent a wetsuit. Since rafting is best when the water levels are higher, and this is usually in the Spring after the snow melts (you get the resulting run off from thawed glaciers and mountain snow). And think! What temperature is that water going to be? You know: Not very warm! (maybe only 50 – 65 degrees) So if you are going whitewater rafting, remember, the outfitters are not trying to scam you into renting a wetsuit—to the contrary—they are trying to make sure you have an enjoyable experience! So consider renting or bringing your wetsuit whenever you feel there might be even the slightest need for one (check weather reports, because if it is going to start raining at the beginning of your 6 hour long trek down a river, then you are going to be awful sore if you do not opt to rent the wetsuit from the get-go)! It’s just a good idea to have one on.

What are the most important things I should know about going Whitewater Rafting?

  • It’s fun! Truly a wet and wild rush of excitement like none other.
  • It’s safe and exciting for the whole family! (kids must be 5 or older)
  • Be prepared: You are going to get wet! You might even end up in the water (in some instances people fall out of their whitewater raft but)
  • Do not panic! As long as you have the help of a whitewater guide on hand, they will assist you and get you back in the raft in the event that you do fall in the water. And if you are an experienced whitewater rafter—Remember, go with a group of other rafters in case you get in trouble. And do not attempt anything too risky—think to yourself, “Would mom approve of me attempting this?”
  • Be smart: Do not consume any drugs or alcohol before or while whitewater rafting – and always heed warnings about water conditions and
  • Follow all safety precautions (always wear a helmet and a PDF at ALL TIMES, and always have a throw rope in the raft in case someone goes overboard!) to ensure you
  • Have a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable experience!

To have an extraordinary whitewater adventure in Maine, visit our sponsor Northern Outdoors!

Your rating: None Average: 5 (1 vote)

Different Types of Whitewater Rafts

January 17, 2010 - 9:30am — Matt Kegelman
6 passengers plus a guide in a Paddle Raft (one of many different types of whitewater rafts)

Different Types of Whitewater Rafts

Thinking about going whitewater rafting? If you're considering giving this thrilling, wet, and wildly-fun activity a try, then you should know that the type of raft you are in will have a big impact on what your experience whitewater rafting is like. We here at GettingOutside.com want you to have the best (and safest) time that is possible when you give whitewater rafting a try. That is why we have compiled a list of the different types of whitewater rafts, what each is suited for, and a description of what the experience will be like in each different type.

Oar Raft – Just sit back and enjoy the ride in an Oar Raft, because the guide is going to do all the paddling for you! These rafts are huge— about 16 to 18 feet in length—and therefore, they are very stable. Oar rafts have a metal frame and padded seats up front for the passengers. If you just want to enjoy the experience, and leave the navigation to the professionals, then going whitewater rafting in an Oar Raft is right for you! (seats 3 – 5)

Paddle Raft – Going whitewater rafting one of these types of rafts is as exciting as it is exhausting, because YOU have to do all the paddling (with the help, coaching, and verbal encouragement of a raft guide, of course, for inexperienced beginners). Paddle Rafts are slightly smaller than Oar Rafts—about 12 to 14 feet in length—but they accommodate more passengers because the hull is not as bulky and the raft gets filled along both sides with people. (seats 6 to 8 [plus a guide to help out the paddlers on each side]). Remember in a paddle raft you are going to have to paddle to help navigate the watercraft through whitewater rapids—and if you’re trying level 3 or higher, this is not for the faint of heart!

Speaking about rafts getting filled with water—learn how all the water that gets in the watercraft does not sink it!—see our Whitewater Rafting FAQ

Oar Assisted Paddle Raft – A combination of the Oar Raft and the Paddle Raft, this type of raft let’s the passengers do some of the paddling, but an experienced guide does the majority of the steering from the back seat (the captain’s chair, you might call it). This is the perfect type of raft for people who are active and energetic, but don’t necessarily have the skill, confidence, and know-how to be completely in charge of a whitewater raft. If you want a thrill and a rush, but don’t want to end up crashing your raft into a jagged rock and sinking it, then this is the right type of raft for you! (seats 4 – 6)

Catarafts – Catarafts are the whitewater rafting equivalent of a catamaran or a pontoon boat. These boats are usually designed for one person, although some may be able to accommodate more. Catarafts are great both for rafting solo and also carrying lots of gear down the river. These rafts look really cool and are usually about 14 or 16 feet in length. If you plan on taking a long daytrip or half-daytrip down a river, considering renting (or owning) a cataraft so you can experience the freedom and control of a one-person raft. (seating varies—depending on the design of the model—usually less than 5)

Inflatable Kayak – As the same implies, these inflatable rafts have the overall shape of a kayak. These light-weight rafts are usually about 10 feet in length. Most of them are only for one person; however, they do make inflatable kayaks that seat two people (but they are considerably more expensive). Because of their light weight and the fact that they can be deflated, rolled up, and stored away in a backpack, these whitewater rafting vessels are perfect for backpackers and anyone planning to go camping after doing some whitewater rafting. So, if you are a backpacker and you also enjoy getting out on the water and experiencing the thrills of the rapids, then you really ought to think about renting owning an inflatable kayak... and they’re not as expensive to purchase as you might think: Now you can get one for less than 300 dollars! (seats 1 – 2)

Rig – The J-Rig and the S-Rig are the two largest whitewater rafts. Both are constructed from two long pontoons and a metal frame that connects them. These are by far the largest whitewater rafts, and they are not used as often in commercial rafting tours compared to the paddle raft, oar raft, oar-assisted paddle raft or inflatable kayak. Rigs are huge (more than 20 feet long)! Therefore they are not as maneuverable and are usually used in longer boat tours on slower waters. But, don’t get us wrong, you can hit the whitewater in one of these behemoth rigs if you find the right place offering this type of tour! (seats 10 or more passengers—some up to 30!)

Dory – The Dory is a hard-hulled boat; it was invented in 1964. It’s similar to a canoe, but with a shallower draft. These lightweight boats are equally suited for whitewater rafting (because of their maneuverability) and for fishing (for their payload). They are about 15 to 22 feet in length and can accommodate up to 4 passengers (as well as all their gear, including camping and fishing equipment if one takes a multi-day tour down a river). They are technically not “rafts” but they are used often in whitewater rafting so we decided to include them here.

There they all are! Which one is going to be rightfor you depends on the type of experience you are looking for, as well as your fitness level and ability to keep your balance and wits when in an intense situation; which, we can assure you, whitewater rafting certainly is sometimes! (Again, do not attempt to go whitewater rafting on rapids that are beyond your comfort or skill level!)

We hope you have found this article on the different types of whitewater rafts enjoyable and informative. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us or the great (and honestly, even more informed) people at Northern Outfitters (we did our research, but they live this stuff each and every day!)...

To reach Northern Outfitters from the US or Canada call Toll-free at 1-800.765.7238 or you can call their direct line at 207-663-4466. Northern Outfitters says with a friendly smile, "We're here to help!" They can assist you in getting outside to enjoy the splashing and thrashing thrills of whitewater rafting, and they will take all of the necessary precautions and care to ensure that your experience is safe, exciting and fun!

Below we have an image gallery of most types of whitewater rafts

(From top to bottom):
A Paddle Raft
An Inflatable Kayak
An Oar Assisted Paddle Raft
A Cataraft

5 Passengers and their Guide in a standard Paddle Raft (the most popular type of whitewater raft)
People having fun on the water in a 2 person inflatable kayak)
Oar Assisted Paddle Raft and whitewater rafting participants
Four Passengers in a Cataraft going Whitewater Rafting
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Earth Day - This year we promise to Get Outside! - and Care for the Earth!

Don't forget one of the most important outside events of all: Earth Day '10! We are going to set a world record for the most people who ever went outside in one day and did something positive for the Earth this year! This is an important ecogically-and-love-based holiday... If you believe in Global Community... If you believe you can make a difference... If you believe in change... then show the world how you care by getting outside on April 22nd, and protecting or restoring our environment!

Plant a tree!

Clean up a park (or any other natural/outdoor area)!

Walk to work, ride a bike, or take public transit!

Turn off your extra lights (or buy energy efficient lights)!

 

Outdoor Games and Outdoor Sports

Playing Games Outdoors on a Trampoline

Playing outside beats sitting in front of a TV or video game; playing outdoors together teaches social values and leadership principles that prepare our kids for adulthood and prepare our adults for success.

We have a lot of fun—when we're kids—playing outside games. Some of the great ones include: Hide and go seek, Tag (or the suped up version, Jailbreak) Duck-Duck-Goose, and many others.

Don't let your kids miss out on all the fun we had playing tag, hide and go seek, dodgeball, pick up ball games, army, and kick the can?

We've collected the rules for some of our favorite outdoor games and activities. You can see a link to it here: RULES of OUTDOOR PLAY!

We'd love to hear the games you played when you were young. Share them with your friends on GettingOutside.com! There's so much do to inside our community—you can learn about great destinations from those who've been to the park, take action by helping protect the environment, and share your story with the world in our blog section—so join today and get access to all these features and more!

Did you know that you can get your very own Blog by becoming a member of Getting Outside.com?

Well, you can. Why? Because we want you to come online and tell us about any experience you've ever had where you were outdoors and either something fun or something interested happened to you. Well, actually, we don't even care if it's that interesting... anything related to nature, the environment (green living or sustainability), an outdoor activity you thought of that you want to share with the world, or whatever, we still would—love for you to share it! and—want you to join our online community! Please, become a part of something that matters, and certainly the environment and the outside world are two things that matter. Take action right now by getting outside! But do that right after you join our members section, so when you get back from your adventure (if you live to tell about it) you will have somewhere to report what it was like. Those who need encouragement themselves in getting outside will look to you for inspiration, and one day you might be thanked by someone who says, "Thanks! You got me to realize I wasn't getting out there enough when I read your article; and when I went back to nature I had a great time! It was a great suggestion, and I'm a healthier person now because of it. I owe you my life... because you have touched and improved mine: Thanks again!"

See, getting outside could be a life-changer. So think about your future... How you could see yourself using this resource? Taking a hike with an accurate trail map in your hand? Uploading pictures of your camping experience and sharing them with your family? Finding the coolest campsite in the entire Southeast Region? Finding new parks which offer specific facilities and activities—like Campground Bathrooms with Showers, Beach Access, RV hookups and Disc Golf?

Well, there's no limit to what it can do—because you'll find all of this and more on GettingOutside.com in our community and members sections!

Or you're welcome to go back to GettingOutside.com's Activities Section to learn about even more Outdoor Activities!

 

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