What To Expect On A Whitewater Rafting Adventure

Whitewater rafting in beautiful Joseph, Oregon is a thrilling experience for young and old alike. From spending time in the outdoors and witnessing amazing views, to flying through rapids and making new friendships—whitewater rafting is an adventure you won’t soon forget.

You may have questions about  what to expect during your whitewater rafting experience, what is river rafting, or perhaps you’re interested in this activity but question whether it’s right for you and is white water rafting safe?

Below we’ll outline the most important things to know about a whitewater rafting guide and trip. By the end of this post, you’ll have the knowledge to feel confident, the rafting tips and tricks, rafting terminology, and rafting essentials to feel confident and excited about this outdoor adventure.

As you evaluate a tour company, look for signs that guides have multiple years of experience and training in these areas:

• First Aid
• CPR
• Swift water rescue techniques
• Some EMT training

Skilled rafting guides are the base for a great whitewater rafting company. These guides will make your trip safe and enjoyable.

First-time whitewater rafters won’t get thrown into the thick of it cold turkey! Before going rafting, a full safety briefing is provided. This includes the use of white water rafting safety equipment like helmets and life jackets.  Our team ensures you're ready—whether you're trying beginner white water rafting, tackling class 3 rapids, or braving class 6 river rafting. We also explain whitewater rafting terms like class IV rapids.

Reputable whitewater rafting guides know the rivers like the back of their hands. They’ll know the safest routes and spots to avoid. Your guides will also know how to respond in an emergency situation.

All necessary water rafting safety equipment and camping gear (if applicable) should be provided by your tour company. Typically, this includes a dry bag for your supplies, a life jacket, and a helmet. Pack a few personal items and everything else will be taken care of.

Ask if you're unsure what to bring to the river or curious about snacks for the river and float trip snacks. We even have ideas for float trip food, kayak food ideas, and great camping appetizers to make your trip even more enjoyable. If you have questions about what supplies or gear you need to bring along, just ask. In general, avoid over packing or bringing anything you don’t want to lose or get wet.

Whitewater rafting may not have the same fear factor as jumping out of a plane or bungee jumping, but those bubbly rapids will definitely get your heart pounding! Choose a tour that fits your thrill level by looking at the classification of each run. Whether you're curious about what is whitewater rafting, or wondering are class 3 rapids dangerous, just like a ski slope, rapids vary in their intensity. American Whitewater classifies rapids as follows:

• Class I rapids: easy and gentle
• Class II (novice): Straightforward rapids with wide and clear channels. Some maneuvering may be required.
• Class III (intermediate): Rapids with moderate, irregular waves that may be difficult to avoid. Some complex maneuvers in tight passages may be required. Strong eddies and powerful currents are often present.
• Class IV (advanced): Intense and powerful yet predictable rapids that require accurate boat handling. You may encounter large, unavoidable waves.
• Class V rapids: Only for the brave
• Class VI rapids: Considered nearly unrunnable

Worried about intensity? Don’t be. With an experienced guide, you can enjoy the exhilaration of crashing whitewater knowing you’re in good hands. Ask us about class 3 rapids kayak or terrain for class 5 rafting if you're going big!

This should be obvious, but don’t expect to stay dry. Getting splashed or even drenched by rapids is part of the experience. And remember, it’s okay to fall out! On a sunny day, even if you’re soaking wet, chances of a sunburn are high. Bring along some sunscreen and apply as needed throughout the day. Your face and the back of your neck are two particularly important areas to keep lathered up.

You won’t be battling through rapids for the entire rafting adventure. You’ll find plenty of peaceful moments to enjoy the views around you. Expect to take a swim in crystal clear waters, enjoy the view, and chat with your fellow rafting companions in your down time.

One of the best parts of a rafting trip in Joseph, Oregon is experiencing the beauty of the outdoors from a fresh perspective. This is the perfect opportunity to see geometric columnar basalt, wildflowers, bald eagles, and Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, to name a few. Pack a set of binoculars to get a better view during calm moments. If you have a waterproof camera or video camera, bring it along to show off your experience to friends back at home.

Food is part of the fun! From float trip food ideas to gourmet riverside dining, we offer fresh, delicious meals.  Most whitewater rafting trips—especially multiple-day excursions—provide you with food and drink along the way.

Wondering about float trip food or the raft menu? We’ve got it. For example, here at Winding Waters Rafting, we offer gourmet meals on all of our rafting adventures. We even provide gluten-free or vegetarian options and will happily accommodate other dietary restrictions as well.

While you may want to pack a few snacks, don’t expect to load up and bring all your food.

People come from all over to experience the whitewater rapids of Joseph, Oregon. Depending on the size of your tour, you’ll be in a raft with anywhere from 2 to 6 other people. Take time to get to know your fellow adventurers and you’ll walk away from a rafting experience with great new friendships.

Now that you know what to expect, you’re probably more excited than ever to get on a raft!

At Winding Waters River Expeditions, we offer guided whitewater rafting experiences on 3 of the most thrilling rivers in the world. Our adventures range from 1 to 6 days in length, are fully guided, and will no doubt be a wonderful memory that lasts with you forever.

Don’t have any whitewater rafting experience? No problem. Our tours are open to all experience levels. We’d love to have you join us, even if you have no previous whitewater rafting experience.

If you have any more questions about what to expect on a Winding Waters River expedition, contact us by phone or email, and we’ll be happy to help you. Also, you might want to check out our Google Business Profile Reviews to know what others think about us!