White water rafting is a fun, but challenging recreational sport involving an inflatable raft. This type of outdoor activity can be done with several people working together to navigate through the rough rapids of the river or similar body of water.
White water rafting not only challenges your physical ability, but mental as well. White water rafting helps improve your overall strength and endurance levels as well as self esteem, self confidence, and helps reduce stress levels. Team work is crucial, thus making it more fun! Below are a few safety tips, as well as a few of the best places to go white water rafting. Good luck and have fun!
White Water Rafting Safety Tips:
- Wear appropriate protective gear: helmet, life jacket, protective eye wear, and water shoes
- Listen to your guide
- Eat a light meal before rafting
- Know and understand the dos and don’ts
- Never go rafting alone
- Know the lay of the land
- Have fun!!
Best White Water Rafting in the Nation:
- Durango, Colorado: Raft the Aminas River like its going out of style. Non-stop fun with some of the best scenery in the country. Visit www.durangorafting.com for more details.
- Montana: Raft the Middle Fork of the Flathead River and experience the class III and class IV rapids. Visit www.wildernessriver.com for more details.
- Idaho: Some of the best rafting available today; raft the Middle Fork of Salmon, Main Salmon, Owyhee, or the Jarbidge/Bruneau and have the time of your life! Visit www.riverguide.com for more details.
- Alaska: Adventure down the Tatshenshini and Alsek Rivers for a once in a lifetime experience. These trips are rather expensive, but worth every penny. For more information on Montana, Alaska, and Idaho rafting, visit: www.wildernessriver.com.
- Oregon: Battle the Rogue River near Grants Pass, Oregon for some of the best rapids around. Enjoy the amazing scenery and the unique Oregon experience. For more information, visit: www.obriensrogueriveroutfitters.com.
Have you ever been white water rafting? Where are your favorite rapids?