The Thrill of Whitewater Rafting

When a person images an adventurous vacation, whitewater rafting usually comes to mind. Nothing is quite like the thrill of being on the wild water, not sure what awaits you as you travel down the length of the river. This is a vacation idea for those who wish to bring fun and excitement into their lives.

Water rafting combines fun, adventure and the great outdoors into one awesome experience. Your days upon the river will be unforgettable as you brave the sometimes unpredictable rapids. The great thing about whitewater rafting is that no two rafting experiences are ever the same. Each time that you go, you should expect new things to happen and different sights to be seen.

Both experienced and inexperienced rafters can enjoy a vacation that involves whitewater rafting. Most excursions will include a guide that will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide will give you a run down of what to expect while on the water and how to paddle through the different parts of the water. Before you set out down the water, you will be provided with a life jacket that you must wear for the duration of your journey.

Where are the best places to take your water rafting vacation? West Virginia is a typical hot spot for rafters. The main appeal is the tremendous expanse of whitewater that flows through the mountainous scenery. The main rivers that are used include the New River, the Gauley River and the Cheat River. There are numerous tours available that each offers a different theme. Historical rafting tours are available that explain about the rich history of the area. Nature trips include the guide paying particular attention to the wildlife of the area. Adventure rides are for the hard core rafters that want the excitement of the untamed rapids. The waters in West Virginia range from mild to extremely wild. The rafting adventure that you choose will largely depend on your skill level and your nerve.

Whitewater rafting in the Poconos of Pennsylvania is enjoyed by thousands on a yearly basis. The Lehigh, Hudson and Moose rivers each offer a unique rafting experience. There are rafting trips that suit both adventurers and families. Whitewater rafting is seasonal and is available in the Poconos from May through October, weather permitting. The rafts usually hold between six to ten people and are self bailing. Each river has miles of rapids to travel along and depending on your mood; you can ride from a couple hours to almost five hours. Many guides provide snacks for the ride or arrange a riverside lunch. There are age restrictions, most rafting companies require that participants be over the age of twelve.

California has numerous rivers available for rafters to enjoy. The American River is one of the most well traveled and is considered one of the best runs in the west. The South Fork of the river is located about half an hour from Sacramento and flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. During your rafting adventure, you will pass beautiful flora and see the site of the beginning of the California gold rush. The Merced River, near Yosemite National Park is another popular site for rafting adventurers.

Whitewater rafting is not for the meek, you need a strong courageous spirit in order to properly enjoy this sport. Rafting trips can last anywhere from a couple hours to over a week depending on the expanse of the river. After you return from your first rafting trip, do not be surprise if you become addicted to the exhilarating rafting experience.