Below is an explanation of the internationally accepted I to VI rating scale known as "classes" for rating river difficulty. A river's level of challenge will change greatly with fluctuations in weather and water levels. Thus, a river section or rapid that might be considered a Class II in late summer might become a Class V during early spring run off.
Class I
Easy. Offers no major obstructions. Water surface shows only small riffles. Low hydraulic forces are present. Small waves, clear passages and no serious obstacles.
Class II
Medium Difficulty. Streamflow increases in velocity. Some obstacles may require maneuvering. Medium hydraulic forces are present. Small standing waves. Clear passages with rapids of moderate difficulty.
Class III
Difficult. Medium to high streamflow velocities may be encountered. Numerous high and irregular waves, rocks, eddies and rapids with passages clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering. Standing waves will be present.
Class IV
Very Difficult. Long (extended) rapids with powerful and irregular waves, dangerous rocks, boiling eddies, requiring powerful and precise maneuvering. High streamflow velocities with strong hydraulics. High standing waves are present.
Class V
Extremely Difficult. Exceedingly difficult, long and violent rapids, following each other almost without interruption. Very strong and dangerous hydraulics. Extremely obstructed river bed with big drops, violent currents and a very steep gradient.
Class VI
Unrunable or Foolish to Attempt. Involves life threatening stream flows and hydraulics. Waterfalls and treacherous drops that make for unsafe maneuvering.
Note: The river ratings used in the vendor listings throughout the GordonsGuide.com Whitewater Rafting section have been provided by the companies and will vary slightly from vendor to vendor.
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Other River Rafting Terms
Trip Types
Description
Paddle trips
Each passenger participates in paddling and physically maneuvering the raft down river. Everyone works as a team and paddles upon commands from the guide.
Oar trips
The guide is centered in the boat and sits on an oar frame, maneuvering the raft down river with a set of long wooden oars. Passengers usually ride and enjoy a paddle-free trip.
Kayak Types
Description
Inflatable kayaks
These are open cockpit canoe-style rubber or canvas kayaks for one or two persons and do not require advanced proficiency in paddling skills.
Hard-shell kayaks
These are closed cockpit kayaks made of fiberglass or molded plastics which require intensive instruction to become a proficient paddler.
P - Portage
Boats must be carried along the river bank in order to circumvent an unraftable or extremely dangerous stretch of river.
Learn to raft! If you have the desire to become proficient in guiding your own river trips,
check out the river rafting programs in the outdoor skills training section of Gordon's Guide.
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