Common Mistakes That Whitewater Rafters Make

Whitewater rafting is a fun adventure sport that people living in the U.S. should try once in their life. It is an exciting (and pretty wet!) activity that can be enjoyed by each and everyone—whether they are 8 or 80!

The experience can be tailored to suit different skill and age levels. However, while engaging in whitewater rafting in the American River, many commit a lot of rookie mistakes that can be a dampen the entire experience. We have mentioned some of them in this blog so that you don’t end up on the same road!

Mistake #1: Turning up in the wrong attire

Many people who want to try out whitewater rafting turn up in casuals, all geared up for the exciting day ahead. But that’s a big no-no! The same goes for sandals as they might slip right off.

Instead, opt for wetsuits or a pair of trunks that are suited to the activity. Also, don’t forget to carry a pair of your favorite sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun!

Mistake #2: Not listening to the guide

Not paying attention to what the guide says can have some serious repercussions for you and as well as jeopardize the safety of those riding along.

In their excitement to tame the rapids while whitewater rafting in California, many people fail to pay heed to the guide’s instructions and end up falling out or endangering the safety of others. While the guide is always prepared for such emergency situations, go the extra length to ensure that you obey what they say. After all, they are certified and have years of experience in the same.

Mistake #3: Not drinking enough water

While having water all around you, staying hydrating might actually be the last thing on your mind. But, with the sun straight above, your throat might get parched and you might start feeling nauseous as soon as you start working with the paddles.

To avoid this, drink water every now and then and as others to drink up as well!

Now that you have these tips to guide you along the way, go grab your paddles and try whitewater rafting in the American river!

Packing Essentials Before A River Trip To California

Your rafting essentials may be enough to ensure a smooth river trip, but adding a Sarong (a thin, lightweight piece of garment) to your bag can save your excitement for a whitewater rafting trip in the American River from turning into a disappointment. How, you may ask? To help you know how this simple piece of fabric can be a game-changer, we have pulled together a few things to consider:

Cooling Tool

You probably aren’t aware of this but many survivalists such as Bear Grylls use a sarong to keep themselves cool during brutally hot days. Just dip it in water and drape it over your shoulder, legs, head, or any body part that’s under fire. The soaked cotton will keep you cool for longer than you imagine during whitewater rafting in California.

Sun Protection

California’s weather can be scorching hot and the sun may cause skin burn as you hike or paddle through the waves. But you can use a sarong to cover your body parts and provide your skin with much-needed relief from the sun. 

Rapid-Dry Towel

When you plan a river trip in California, river baths are inevitable. While it’s best to bring a bath towel, it can take hours to dry off. This is where a sarong comes in handy as it dries off quickly, enabling you to take a much-needed bath even when your regular towel is wet. 

Final Thoughts

Planning a whitewater rafting trip in the American River is only good when you come prepared and if you add a sarong to your packing list, the better. 

For more tips on whitewater rafting in California, consider browsing visit-eldorado.com.

The Guide To Dangerous And Mellow Rapids- Begin Your Journey On The Right Note

In order to develop a knack for whitewater rafting, rafters need to be perceptive of the change in the flow of the river. The characteristics of a river can change considerably with how the river rises and falls. In fact, the mellower segments of a river can become quite intimidating in a turbulent climate. This is where the real difficulty lies in the element of whitewater rafting. How do you prepare for unseen circumstances? 

Furthermore, there are six classes of surging rapids. Each rapid requires a more technical approach than the last. Therefore, if you feel skilled enough to approach the rapids I, II and III of the American River, then referring to this guide will help you understand what you are bound to accomplish. Knowing about different rapids will allow you to explore this sport with proper preparation for your next trip. 

Whitewater rafting in sunny California is highly fruitful if you are looking for the perfect adventure away from the heat. Furthermore, there might be a much-needed thrill-seeking outlet that you may miss out on. In the American River, whitewater rafting classifies as moderately difficult and it is bound to boost your thirst for adventure and history. After all, rafting in the river where James Marshall first found gold can rather be historically appealing. Often, the experience can be termed as unforgettable, thrilling and new. Here are different rapids by difficulty.

The Different Difficulties Of Rapids

We will judge the difficulty on the basis of how extreme the movement of water is. However, each rapid is susceptible to change. Therefore, in some cases, make sure that you have an instructor alongside to guide you.

1.  Class A- no perceptible movement. Cakewalk.

2.  Class 1- no obvious difficulties except when navigating around bridges. Easy.

3. Class 2- quick and smooth waters. These can be handled by any intermediate who has experience with perceiving the river's direction. Moderate but not Olympic. Time to paddle your way up the classes.

4. Class 3- this is an expert's treat as these waters are significantly quicker but, slightly challenging for intermediates. They flow through narrow but clear passages. Canoeists without floatation bags may find it significantly difficult. From here, this is where the tough-stuff begins. E.g. American River etc.

5. Class 4- these are powerful and long waves and require equally powerful yet precise maneuvers to get out them safely. Advanced preparation for rescue would be necessary. You are about to make headway for Class 5 and 6. Although this is not half as rough as the rapids that are coming up, you are bound to need a medic for the next two. E.g. Rogue River etc.

So, these two are a long-shot from still waters. Make sure you do not make mistakes or you're bound to have lungs full of water under the duress of surging waves.

6.  Class 5- extremely difficult. Uninterrupted waves of thunderous force. Uneven ridges and characterized by the steep gradient. Medical assistance and preparation are required. E.g. Futaleufú River, Chile etc.

7. Class 6- these are rivers navigated by expert Olympic rowers. First, of all, if you are an expert, only then attempt this. Same goes for the class 5 rapid. This class of rapids are for the World Record Kayakers and take many lives. In fact, if you are the one to explore, here is where you begin. These rapids are like exploring karate beyond the black belt. You may be great with the basics, but, you have a ton to explore. E.g. Whirlpool Rapids Gorge, Niagara River, New York etc.

Enjoy A Fist-pumping Venture with Whitewater Rafting

                                 ‘Fill your life with adventures, not things.
                                  Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.’

Are you an ardent adventure lover and have the desire to explore and get off the beaten track? Do you enjoy adventurous water sports and planning to get the adrenaline rush in the midst of breath-taking scenery?

Well, then River rafting in California will prove to be one such experience that will get your pulse racing while giving you an opportunity to adore the beauty of nature. You can enjoy your love for thrill, adventure and water with Whitewater rafting in California surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

Whether you have organized a trip for your co-workers or planning to head out with friends on an adventurous trip, just visit El Dorado County and gear-up for an unforgettable experience. Visitors of all ages can have a thrilling experience here and can make the most of their trips. Also, rafters of varied skill levels are welcomed here.

So, what are you waiting for? Go on and have one of the most unforgettable trips of your life that will be filled with fun and frolic. This exclusive water adventure sport is a once in a lifetime experience and should be on your bucket list!

Exciting Whitewater Rafting Expeditions in El Dorado County - An Experience of a Lifetime

The American River as it flows through the El Dorado County offers a mesmerizing and once-in-a-lifetime experience to enthusiasts and tourists looking forward to adventure-activities,. Presenting an unforgettable experience for water-lovers, the river was made famous in 1849 when James Marshall first discovered gold at the site. Today the South Fork is California’s best whitewater river destination bringing in close to 100,000 visitors per year on an average.

Both the upper and the lower sections of the South Fork offer adrenaline pumping rapids and scenic floats with unprecedented scenery. While the upper section of the American River is a rollicking ride that goes over countless rapids such as Meat-Grinder, Racehorse, Triple Threat, and the infamous Troublemaker. All of these mentioned rapids are included in the intermediate class III adventure that’s appreciated by rafters of any age and skill level. As one moves on further, the Gorge begins with mellow Class I and II rapids, increasing in difficulty as the narrows ahead produce Class III rapids. The area’s famous rapids include the Fowler’s Rock, Satan’s Cesspool, Haystack Canyon, Bouncing Rock, and Hospital Bar Rapids.

The journey which commenced 21 miles upriver at Chili Bar in  El Dorado County comes to a full-stop on the warm, still-waters of Folsom Lake. River Rafting in California is a bit more exciting than all the other river rafting destinations of the world due to the river’s natural beauty, rich historical background, and great rapids as the adventure continue down towards the lower section of the river.

Go with the flow of the beautiful American River and rejuvenate the-self with one of the best whitewater rafting in California. Apart from finding out the path of the river, you can also check for the most-appropriate whitewater outfitters through Visit-El Dorado’s exclusive listings.