Top Ten Tips on Choosing the Perfect Whitewater Rafting Vacation

Whitewater rafting is an activity for all ages, adventure levels – mild or wild - and all occasions including family outings, to corporate team building initiatives, and church and scout outings. Our rafting season on the Southwest rivers ranges from February through October, depending on the river. You can use the information and advice below to plan your next white water rafting vacation.

Arizona hosts the earliest spring whitewater in North America, drawing whitewater rafting enthusiasts looking for incredible desert whitewater rafting experiences. The downside to this is the season of snowmelt in Arizona is short, lasting only into May on high water years. Eastern Utah begins its river season in March or April and lasts through October. Southwest Colorado has a rafting season of April or May through September or October, depending on snowmelt and rain. Within this range of seasons, different rivers have various seasons depending on where the snowmelt is coming from. Many high adventure rivers in the Southwest have their peak water in June and then decrease from there.

If you are ready for an adventurous, whitewater rafting vacation, now is the time to start planning. Below are the important factors in evaluating and choosing the whitewater rafting trip that is best suited for you and your group. Consider the factors for all of your group members.

Plan your whitewater rafting trip based on those in your party who meet the lowest requirements.

1. Age range?
2. Level of adventure?
3. Level of experience?
4. Level of physical fitness?
5. Interest in camping?
6. Length of whitewater rafting trip desired?
7. Desire to sit back and let the guide do all the work (oar boat)?
8. Desire to actively participate by paddling (paddle boat)?
9. Month of trip departure?
10. Amount of snowfall, snow pack and rain determine how high and how long the rivers run.

Rating Scales

River rapids are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 with the following definitions:

Class I: "Moving Water"

Class II: "Splashes"

Class III: "Wet and Fun"

Class IV: "Big Drops"

Class V: "Violent Rapids"

All whitewater rafting trips have a recommended age limit. Often, the age requirements fluctuate depending on the level of the water. Choosing the appropriate trip for your group will ensure your whitewater rafting experience is a wonderful and memorable one! Equally important is choosing a quality outfitter. Go to "Choosing an Outfitter" for tips.

Find a Rafting Trip Based On:

• Length of Trip
• Intensity of Trip
• Location of Trip
• River

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