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River Difficulty Classification: California whitewater rafting

The difficulty of a whitewater rafting river is Classified on a scale of I to VI, with Class VI indicating an unrunnable stretch of river. Use this scale to choose a river that is right for you.

We have rated the rivers on which we operate according to the scale below describing each Class. The difficulty of a river may vary significantly with fluctuations in water level. For example, the South Fork is normally a Class III, but in times of high water, the difficulty may increase to Class IV. The ratings listed refer to the rivers' difficulties at normal, medium levels. On a professionally guided trip, beginners may handle a Class III river.

  CLASS I: EASY. Waves are small; passages clear. No serious obstacles. FUN FOR EVERYONE.

  CLASS II: MEDIUM. Rapids of moderate difficulty with passages clear. FUN FOR EVERYONE.

  CLASS III: DIFFICULT. Waves are numerous, high, irregular; rocks; eddies; rapids with passages clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering. CHALLENGING.

  CLASS IV: VERY DIFFICULT. Long rapids; waves powerful and irregular;dangerous rocks, boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required. THRILLSEEKERS.

  CLASS V: EXTREMELY DIFFICULT. Long and violent rapids following each other almost without interruption; riverbed extremely obstructed; big drops; violent current; very steep gradient. EXPERIENCED THRILLSEEKERS.

California River Rafting with California River Rafting Excitement 800-523-5531