What is Whitewater Rafting?

Ever watch footage of those crazy folks windingand wild sport but never quite knew how to get
down the wild rivers of the world with nothing but astarted, it isn't difficult, say the experts. The number
yellow raft between them and what appears to beone concern of most individuals, say whitewater
certain death? If so, you've probably experienced theguides, is the safety of the sport. There's always
second-hand thrill of whitewater rafting. But if you'vesome risk, they'll tell you, but if you're rafting with a
never done it yourself, you might wonder "What isreputable company that employs experienced guides,
Whitewater Rafting?" What are the ins and outs ofthe risks are minimal and managed.
the sport and can anyone do it? Where do you go toEven non-swimmers and children without much
enjoy whitewater rafting excursions and how does aswimming experience can travel safely on certain
beginner get started?whitewater trips, as the life vest is an essential part of
The Origins of the Sportany whitewater equipment. Some outfitters offer
Whitewater rafting has been around for a long time.special family-oriented trips on mild rapids, suitable for
Records show whitewater runs as early as the firstsmall children and seniors. You should, however, be in
decade of the 1800s, but as a recreational sport, thisgood health and free of any problems which may be
unique activity began to gain popularity in the 1970s.aggravated by this or any vigorous activity before you
Indeed, the rubber raft was invented in the 1840s andgive it a try.
used by the U.S. Army for surveying purposes.Choosing the Right Whitewater Rafting Trip
However, the first actual commercial whitewater tripAfter you've answered the questions "What is
didn't take place until early in the 20th century. By theWhitewater Rafting?" and "Can I Do It?", you'll want to
1940s and 50s, resorts near certain rivers began todetermine which trips are best for you and your
offer rafting expeditions to their guests, but outfitterscompanions. Choosing the right excursion can make or
that specialized in the sport really didn't begin springingbreak your love for the sport, so start off slow, even if
up until the 60s and 70s. The inclusion of whitewateryou're anxious to dive into the wild stuff!
rafting in the 1972 Summer Olympics caused people toRapids are divided into four classes - Class I through
stop and ask "What is Whitewater Rafting?" andIV - and these classes determine the attitude of the
prompted them to do more research into the sport.ride. When researching rides, the class of the rapids will
Many of those people become instant fans.be part of the information provided. Note, however,
Today, whitewater rafting is best defined as athat the rapids aren't always the same for a particular
recreational activity that uses multi-passenger, inflatableriver. While rapids may be a mild Class I or II during the
rubber boats to travel down rivers that containseason when the river is low, the same body of water
numerous rapids or "whitewater," often navigated bymay experience Class III or IV rapids when the runoff
an experienced guide, allowing for a thrilling ride thatfrom the mountains is at its peak.
leaves you soaking wet and screaming for more.If you're just starting out, take time to ask your outfitter
Many people simply refer to it as "the most funwhich runs are best for you so that you'll be initiated
they've ever had!"gradually into the world of whitewater. Booking an
Whitewater Rafting for Beginnersintense, nail-biting trip the first time out may cause you
If you've always wanted to try your hand at this wetto hesitate to try the sport again.