3 Whitewater Outfitters to Consider for a Safe and Memorable Whitewater Rafting Trip in El Dorado

As summer approaches, millions of travelers and adventurers swarm the County of El Dorado, CA, for its adrenaline-pumping activities, preferably revitalizing hiking near Lake Tahoe and engrossing whitewater rafting on the American River. These two activities are a sure-fire way to get a complete dose of adrenaline for both avid adventurers and beginners. Hiking in Lake Tahoe lets you discover the all-embracing beauty of nature and challenge your fitness at each step. On the other hand, rafting enables you to explore the strength of the American River and see whether you can beat it or not. 

But hiking and rafting in El Dorado County differ from one another in a sense that planning a Lake Tahoe hiking trip on your own is easy, provided you have some level of hiking experience, whereas planning engrossing whitewater rafting on the American river often requires the help of rafting operators, even if you are an experienced paddler. This is primarily because of the unpredictable nature of the American River and Class III rapids.

If you are planning a rafting trip on the American River and want it to be safe and adrenaline-packed, here are a few whitewater outfitters you should consider getting in touch with:

Action Whitewater Adventures California Inc.

Action Whitewater Adventures California Inc. was founded in 1985, and since then, it has been providing its guests in the region with blood-pumping, safe, and quality rafting adventures. With its top-tiered staff, world-class guides, gourmet meals, and breathtaking riverfront campground, you are sure to take back home the love of rafting, and a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

Raft California

For more than 25 years, Raft California has been running engrossing whitewater rafting trips on the American River for all levels of rafters. What else, it organizes whitewater rafting trips and tours on more than 12 rivers, including the South Fork American, Middle Fork American, North Fork American, Tuolumne, Kaweah, North Yuba, Truckee, and more. 

All-Outdoors

Ranked among California's few original rafting companies, All-Outdoors has been helping people explore the depth of the American River through their rafting trips and tours for over 50 years. It has a professional staff that ensures that your rafting trip is safe, fun-packed, and spectacular. 

For more information on the whitewater rafting trips on the American River, browse visit-eldorado.com/

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.