The International White Water Rating System For Rafters

Most people think white water rafting is a fairly dangerous sport for thrill seekers. Many are unaware that there is an international rating system for rapids, and for those who are looking for some excitement, but relatively little danger, there are white water adventures that would be perfect. White water is rated from Class I to Class VI, with levels V and VI recommended for only the most experienced and fit athletes.

The Colorado River has a rating system all its own because there are adventures here that differ from those on other rivers. This is due to the depth of the canyon and the different types of terrain here that are found nowhere else in the world. The Colorado River system rates the waters from Level I to Level X, but because most people are more familiar with the international rating system, most expedition leaders on the Colorado will still use the more familiar rating system when advertising tours.

In most cases, navigation down fast moving water is done in inflatable rafts or kayaks. Inflatables are used because they adapt better to the water movement, and rebound better in choppy waters. They have the flexibility to meld better to the shape and movement of the rough waters. For the novice, be sure to check out the white water rating before launching into unknown waters. Rafting can be very challenging and a river trip could prove devastating for an inexperienced boater, so it is important to understand the international rating system for rivers. It is the culmination of more than 30 years of interest and expertise in the sport and helps increase safety for all boaters.

Class I - perfect for the novice; the current is swift, but manageable especially with a little training. There are generally few obstacles, making this a safe and pleasant family cruise.

Class II - still considered easy, but does require some quick maneuvering as waves can reach up to 3 feet high. Generally Class II waters are found in wide channels that do not require scouting, making them a good choice for larger rafting tours.

Class III - perfect for those with intermediate experience who do not mind getting wet. Huge boulders can create large waves up to 4 feet high that require quick navigation in strapping currents. Large rivers can have very strong eddies leading to narrow, fast moving channels that require boaters to utilize complex maneuvers. This is a trip that should offer a torrent of excitement for thrill seekers.

Advanced rafters will love the wild ride of Class IV rapids. Before attempting this level you should be fit, experienced and competent with the basics of white water rafting. Rivers sporting Class IV are typically lengthy and require exact navigation through constricted passages with turbulent water. Large, sometimes unavoidable waves are inevitable making quick thinking a requirement in these intense, but often predictable waters.

For expert boaters and kayakers, even more thrills are available since the rating system goes up to Class VI. Levels V and VI are recommend only for experts, because turbulence gives way to what is often called violent waters. Level V river areas feature constant movement due to spinning and gushing water for the ultimate in a thrilling water adventure. Expect to see demanding and complex navigation, frequent drops, and obstructed paths that require an individual who is physically fit.

Class VI rapids are unequivocally reserved for expert rafters who possess faultless skill on extremely dangerous water. These rapids are the ultimate in danger and unpredictability in white water rafting and should only be attempted by those individuals who have an immense amount of skill and training on rough water.

Whether going on a guided Colorado River expedition, or just taking to a local river, be aware that the rating level of the rapids changes on some rivers as the seasons change. Spring melts bring more turbulence, but rivers often become much calmer in later summer months as the flow of melt water declines. The more extreme rapids should only be attempted by very experienced rafters and are almost never included on public guided expeditions as the safety of large groups cannot be guaranteed.