All Class V rafting is strenuous and adventurous. We consider the Forks advanced class V because of its remoteness, the committing nature of the canyon, the sheer number of rapids, and the size of some of the biggest drops. It is one of the most difficult stretches of whitewater run commercially in the United States.
For those that are up for an adventure, who are active, fit, and comfortable swimming in moving water it is an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Here are some important guidelines when considering joining us on the Forks of the Kern:
(Please note: Running class V is not about being competitive or macho. It is about being a good team player, being adventures, and being in good physical condition.)
- Be in good physical condition: You do not need to be a triathlete or a bodybuilder (in fact, being too big can be an issue – see below), and these trips are not competitive in any way. But you need to be someone who exercises regularly (at least 2 to 4 hours a week), is coordinated, in good cardiovascular condition, and not overweight.
- Have the appropriate height-to-weight ratio: People who are very big – because of height, weight, or both – often have a difficult time fitting, balancing, and staying in the boats we have to use on the Forks. And staying in the boat on these trips is extremely important. Many people who are very large also have a harder time getting themselves back in the boat and are challenging for the rest of the team to rescue. Because of that 265 lbs is the maximum weight we’re comfortable taking on the Forks (and we prefer Forks paddlers to be well below 265 lbs).
Please call us with any specific questions/situations. - Have good balance and agility: Being able to balance and move around a moving raft is very important. As well as having the ability to scramble over rocks and very rough terrain.
- Be able to understand and react quickly to verbal instructions: This is very much a team experience and the ability to understand and react to instructions in hectic situations is very important.
- Swimming ability is a must: Unexpected swims and flips do happen and are part of running a stretch of whitewater this big. People need to be solid swimmers and comfortable in moving water. We will do a practice swim at the beginning of the trip.
- Whitewater Experience is very helpful (but not required): Previous rafting experience is helpful and recommended. However, if you are very active, agile, in very good physical condition (and under 265lbs), and adventurous, it is not required.
Many regard the Forks of the Kern as the greatest class V wilderness trip in the country – remote, exciting, unpredictable, sometimes unforgiving, and always extremely beautiful. And, for those who are up for an adventure and prepared, it is an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Please call or email if you have any questions.