{"id":7489,"date":"2016-12-14T15:50:47","date_gmt":"2016-12-14T22:50:47","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.cloud9living.com\/blog\/?p=7489"},"modified":"2022-08-22T10:12:47","modified_gmt":"2022-08-22T16:12:47","slug":"best-white-water-rafting-trips-in-us","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.virgingifts.com\/blog\/best-white-water-rafting-trips-in-us","title":{"rendered":"18 Incredible Rivers for White Water Rafting Trips in the U.S."},"content":{"rendered":"

White water rafting trips are a must-take plunge to complete every bucket list. And for good reason. The best white water rafting in the U.S. not only comes with plenty of thrills, but also some of the country\u2019s most gorgeous scenery.<\/p>\n

And with many of the nation\u2019s rivers offering sections that are beginner- and family-friendly, it\u2019s entirely acceptable to get caught up in a few picturesque moments while you paddle. Of course, taking a breather on a gentle lull of river water after an intense Class IV or V ride is a fantastic sightseeing alternative as well.<\/p>\n

From easy-going waters to extreme rapids, these 18 rivers offer all levels of paddlers the best white water rafting trips in the U.S., from coast to coast. So start planning your next rafting adventure!<\/p>\n

\"rafting\"<\/strong><\/p>\n

18 Must-Do White Water Rafting Trips in the U.S.<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"top\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"top<\/h2>\n

<\/h2>\n

\"rafting\"<\/u><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1. Rogue River<\/u><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Running from Oregon\u2019s picturesque Crater Lake to the Pacific Ocean is 215 miles of enticing waters. The Rogue River is a hot spot for adrenaline enthusiasts who also appreciate stunning scenery. Boasting Class I and II rapids, with Class III+ available as well, the Rogue River offers quite the white water rush, particularly through the Grants Pass area. As if the ride isn\u2019t exhilarating enough, the lower Rogue\u2019s \u2018Wild\u2019 section restricts usage to 120 permit-holding users per day\u2014so it\u2019s quite the exclusive honor to get in on this stretch of the best white water rafting in the U.S.<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Highlights: <\/strong>Collectively, the entire river is considered \u201cWild and Scenic.\u201d<\/li>\n
  • Class:<\/strong> Mostly Class I and II, with Class III-IV available as well.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    \"Oregon<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

    2. Salmon River<\/u><\/strong><\/h2>\n

    425 miles long, this \u201cWild and Scenic\u201d gem is one of the largest rivers in North America. As such, it\u2019s carved out one of the country\u2019s deepest canyons (7,000 feet, beating out the Grand Canyon\u2019s 6,093-foot depth). With its mountain terrain and canyons, the Salmon River is surrounded by some of the most rocky and remote landscapes tackled by white water rafting trips. River-runners will be delighted by its wildlife, rich green pools, heart-pounding rapids, and tranquil floats \u2014all punctuated by white sand beaches\u2014 as they embark on any length of rafting excursion.<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Highlights: <\/strong>This famed \u201cRiver of No Return\u201d is well worth braving for its breathtaking geographical features.<\/li>\n
    • Class: <\/strong>Mostly III-IV, with gentler floats available for families\/beginners as well.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      \"Idaho<\/p>\n

      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

      3. Tuolumne River<\/u><\/strong><\/h2>\n

      Stretching across 149 glorious miles of central California is the Tuolumne River. It serves as one of the most sought-after and challenging white water rafting rivers in the U.S. In use by rafters since the 1960s, an 18-mile stretch of the Tuolumne sports several Class IV-V rapids, dotted by mellow swimming holes in between. It\u2019s imperative that river-runners stick to this area with an experienced commercial guide, unless you yourself are a certified professional. The river\u2019s Cherry Creek area also offers commercial outings, but its 15 consecutive Class V rapids make it one of the most difficult white water rafting trips in the country! Additionally, certain sections of the river within Yosemite National Park are characterized by remoteness, waterfalls, and Class IV-V+ rapids \u2014 all reasons to steer clear.<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Highlights: <\/strong>The Tuolumne River starts in Yosemite National Park and played a significant role in the California Gold Rush.<\/li>\n
      • Class: <\/strong>IV-V, recommended for advanced rafters only.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        \"best<\/strong><\/p>\n

        \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

        4. Kern River<\/u><\/strong><\/h2>\n

        Nearly all 165 miles of the Kern River can be easily accessed by the public, making it a premiere white water rafting destination in the U.S., among other outdoor recreational activities. While the Kern Canyon area is a hot spot for rafters, the river does have a reputation for having rather unpredictable or deceptive flow. Those engaging in white water rafting trips should be sure to wear proper gear and vests, and partake under the supervision of certified guides.<\/p>\n

          \n
        • Highlights: <\/strong>The Kern River offers swift flow at low elevation.<\/li>\n
        • Class: <\/strong>II \u2013 V on the Forks and Upper River, with Class II \u2013 III (sometimes IV) on the Lower Kern River.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n