At River and Rock Adventures, we realize that booking an American River Rafting trip comes with a lot of questions. We are happy to answer any questions you might have, but have taken the time to answer a few here that many customers have been interested in asking. Take a look below at these frequently asked questions regarding booking an American River white water rafting trip, and if you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at 1-866-748-7625. Also, if you're ready to book a trip, send us a trip request online and we'll contact you with all of the pertinent details. |
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Q: Why choose River and Rock Adventures? |
- A: There are a lot of outfitters who offer American River White water rafting trips. However, River and Rock Adventures is the leader in the total package. We redefine safety on a regular basis with our trips and take more precautions than a lot of our competitors. In addition, we combine our regard for safety with a staff of owners and guides who can entertain, cook, impress, and much more. We have a long history of satisfied customers, some who have been rafting with our company fo over a decade. check out our testimonials page to get a glimpse of what some are saying about us.
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Q: What's the difference between Class III, IV, and V rapids? |
- A: The definition between rapid classifications is complicated. A general guideline is that class III is the first level of rapid that should not be navigated without an experienced guide. This is a great level for beginners or casual rafters. Class IV rapids are more technical and require a guide with very specific training and abilities. Class V is for advanced rafters looking for thrills. For more information, check out the bottom of our American River Rafting home page
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Q: When is the best time to go rafting? |
- A: This depends largely on what river you are talking about. The North Fork American River (class IV+) is not dam-controlled and the season ends when the snowmelt runs out (typically in May). The South and Middle Forks of the American are dam-controlled and can be rafted April through September. April and May are typically considered a bit cooler than the summer months and may require wetsuits. The summer months are typically more hot, making the cold water more enticing. However, this makes it more crowded on the river and harder to get reservations. The truth is, anytime is a great time for an American River white water rafting trip.
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Q: Which section of river is best for me? |
- A: Our South Fork American River white water rafting trips are our most popular, since the class III rapids are good for pretty much anyone. It is the second most rafted river in the entire United States. The Middle Fork American is slightly more difficult and longer in overall length. This requires that paddlers be reasonably fit and prepared for big water. The North Fork American rafting run is challenging and should only be attempted by very fit adventure seakers, preferably with previous rafting experience.
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Q: Do I need to know how to swim? |
- A: Technically, no. But it is definitely a plus. Our coast-guard approved type V life jackets will float anyone in the water, so it is not necessary that you are able to swim. And our safety briefings before each trip cover how to react safely in the river if you end up in the water. However, on class IV and up trips, it is preferable that everyone on the trip know how to swim. For the North Fork, it is required.
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Q: Who can go on an American River white water rafting trip? Can my children go? |
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Q: When should I make a reservation? |
- A: As early as possible. We try to accomodate as many requests as possible, but giving us plenty of time in advance allows us to properly book resources for the trip. Trips can be booked up to the day of, however, on short notice we may not be able to accomodate all requests. Call 1-866-748-7625 to find out about availability.
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Q: How many people fit in a boat? |
- A: Our 14-foot self bailing white water rafts typically fit 6 people plus a guide. In some cases, we can accomodate a seventh paddler in a boat to keep groups together.
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Q: Is it common to tip guides? |
- A: White water rafting is a service-based industry, and thus whether or not you should tip your guide depends on the quality of the trip you feel you received. Our guides put in a lof of work and extra effort to try and make your experience the best on the water. Tips are a great way to show your appreciation, and though they are never expected, they are always welcomed. Our guides appreciate feedback on how they did, whether it is a hearty handshake, a hug, or a tip.
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Q: Can I request my guide? |
- A: Absolutely- our guides take a lot of pride in the quality of the white water rafting trips they provide, and guide requests, either due to referrals or previous experience, are awesome. We have customers who come back year after year and want the same guide. We're happy to oblige.
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Q: Can I bring alcohol out on the river with me? |
- A: Our American River rafting trips are alcohol free while on the water. This is to ensure the saftey of everyone on the river, both private and commercial paddlers. This is enforced by local regulatory agencies. Alcohol can be consumed back in camp, though, as a part of an overnight or wilderness adventure rafting trip.
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Q: What kind of training do River and Rock Adventures guides have? |
- A: Our guides have a diverse set of training. All of our guides are trained in First Aid and CPR (required). RRA conducts a guide school every springtime to train new guides in necessary skills. Our ownership group (almost 30 years experience between the whole group) personally oversees the quality and training of all of our guides to ensure that only the most skilled and safe guides represent us on the water.
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Q: What should I wear? |
- This can very depending what time of year you are rafting. But there are some good guidelines that are rather universal. Cotton retains water, and can thus keep you cold when it is wet. Synthetic fibers, like athletic gear, are preferred. Jeans are not a good idea. Dressses are a worse idea. Bathing suits are ideal. No flip-flops should be worn. Shoes worn on the river should go all the way around the foot (i.e. sandals with heal strap are OK). Hats are great, but we'll be wearing helmets on the the river, bear in mind. Sunblock is essential. Consult your trip itinerary or contact us with any more specific questions.
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Q: What's the difference between a 1/2-day trip and a full day trip? |
- A: Our 1/2-day American River white water rafting trips are shorter and do not include lunch. Our Upper South Fork (Chili Bar run) trips are only 8 miles long, about 2 hours or less on the river. For both of our lower South Fork (Gorge) runs, the distance of the trip is the same (13 miles), but the 1/2 day trip leaves later in the day and does not stop for lunch, whereas the Lower full day stops mid-way for a delicious meal. It is imperative that Lower 1/2-day customers should eat something before arriving in camp to start the trip.
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Q: Do we have to wear helmets and life jackets? Do we need to bring any gear? |
- A: All of our American River white water rafting customers will wear Coast Guard-approved type V life jackets, as well as helmets, provided by RRA. Do not bring your own gear, as we are required to outfit all of our customers.
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Q: How long will the trip take? |
- A: This depends largely on the trip you take. Upper South Fork rafting trips spend only 2 hours or less on the river. Lower South Fork customers will spend about 4-5 hours on the water. This does not include about 30-60 minutes to prep for the trip or about 30 minutes to get back from the take-out, in some cases. Middle Fork and North Fork rafting trips are more remote and customers will have closer to an 8-hour day all included. It is best to consult a trip itinerary for detailed info.
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Q: How do I look at photos from our trip? |
- A: There are multiple companies photographing on the American River. We partner with Hoshot Imaging to offer discounts on photos (ask for coupon in camp). Photos from the South Fork American River Rafting trips are not available online. You'll need to go into the store or contact them directly for those photos. Photographs from the Middle Fork are available by browsing their website.
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