Rapids Ratings
Despite what Hollywood would like to have you believe, rivers are not all
like the movie "The River Wild"! In reality, each river varies in the number
and intensity of rapids. Between rapids, there is often plenty of opportunity
to relax, view the scenery, enjoy the information about the area that your
guide will share with you, or take photos.
An international scale that rates individual
rapids from class I (easy) to class VI (nearly impossible) is used in
all our river descriptions. A rapid may vary in terms of time from just
a few seconds to 20 seconds or more.
Class I
"Wild Water definition: Very relaxing."
Gentle, moving water. Very small waves requiring little or no maneuvering.
Class II
"Wild Water definition: You may get splashed." Regular waves, easy
to see, may reach 3 to 4 feet in height. Avoiding rocks, river bends or
other obstacles may require simple maneuvering.
Class III
"Wild Water definition: You will get wet!"
Large, continuous series or sets of waves, some in excess of 6 feet. "Holes"
or "hydraulics" may be present, and can be run or avoided. Small drops,
ledges or waterfalls may be present. Scouting the rapids is suggested
for all but the most experienced of river persons.
Class IV
"Wild Water definition: You'll get soaked… like a 9 or 10 on the "fun
scale"!
Confused and erratic waves or holes. Large obstructions need to be avoided
in what are referred to as "must moves". Risk of injury if swimming without
benefit of a raft! Very difficult and scouting is required.
Class V
"Wild Water definition: Adrenaline junkies only!
For most people, class V goes off the "fun" scale and enters the "kinda
scary" scale! Very challenging for even the most experienced river persons.
High risk of capsize or injury. Limit of navigation and scouting is essential.
Class VI
"Wild Water definition: Niagara Falls in a barrel!" Virtually non-navigable,
or navigable only at particularly favorable river levels.
REMEMBER! This scale is
subjective. Rapids can change in difficulty seasonally and as quickly
as overnight! This scale is meant only as a guideline for how easy or
difficult a rapid, river or river trip may be. It is best to speak with
one of our knowledgeable reservationists to find out what the river level
may be like at the time when you would like to raft with us, and assist
you is choosing the best trip.
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