Summer Rafting Conditions

2011 the Best Year Yet For CA Whitewater Rafting

Experts say that this summer season is shaping up to be a brilliant year for California whitewater rafting and kayaking in the western United States , thanks to some of the heaviest rain and snowfall totals in decades . As the warmer weather spreads out across the region, that large accumulated snowpack is starting to runoff, creating raging rapids, high rivers , and some of the best paddling possibilities in years. The Kern River in Southern California is really flowing strong and its location with easy access to nearby major cities and national parks has made this river, in this year’s particular conditions , the best possible place to go .

Rafting companies in states like Idaho, Colorado , and California are preparing to take advantage of this bountiful season for water on their rivers. A variety of major waterways out west are already 150% above their 30-year average and some are even nearing a 200% increase. But even at this late time of year, snow continues to fall at higher altitudes, which means the great whitewater is expected to last well into July – a time when the waters have usually dissipated for the year. Some rivers , like the Kings River, sustain good white water normally through late May and early June. Wave trains with waves cresting as high as 10 feet provide long, thrilling rides. Before and after high water , the Kings River is an idyllic whitewater rafting paradise with over 40 Class III rapids perfect for families, first-timers and people of all ages – from 7 to 77. However, in 2011 , thanks to the incredible snow packs feeding the Kings , that high-water timespan is anticipated to last longer, affording more opportunities for rafting adventures in challenging high water.

Of course, all this high water brings other worries as well. Inexperienced paddlers can quickly find themselves overcome in rushing waters, indicating that there could potentially be more accidents and rescues throughout the 2011 rafting season . The expected high waters have also brought about closures to some parts of notoriously difficult rivers. For instance, there are plans to close some parts of the Arkansas River in June, as they’ll likely be too high to run.

But the upside to all of this spring and summer snow melt is that whitewater rafting opportunities should abound throughout the summer months. So whether you’re an expert paddler or you’ve simply always wanted to try , it seems that 2011 will be a excellent year to hit the water.