Experience the thrill of the Kern River while earning your whitewater merit badge. This all-day rafting adventure combines learning and excitement for scouts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle paddling, balance, and endurance throughout the day.
Wildlife
History
Kernville has a rich history as a gold rush town, and the Kern River has long been a center for water-based recreation since the early 20th century.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain the Kern River’s water quality and preserve natural habitats help ensure sustainable adventure experiences for future generations.
Sierra South Mountain Sports
Experience the thrill of the Kern River while earning your whitewater merit badge. This all-day rafting adventure combines learning and excitement for scouts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Sierra South Mountain Sports is a Kernville, California outfitter specializing in whitewater rafting, guided kayak instruction, mountain bike shuttles, and tubing on the Upper Kern River.
The company offers a range of guided and unguided experiences, from family-friendly Class II–III runs like Lickety Split and Lickety Blaster to expert-level Class IV and Class V full-day trips on the Upper Kern. Trips include options such as a Paddlers Evaluation on select advanced runs, riverside lunches on full-day trips, and shuttle service for tubing and shuttled mountain bike runs.
Instructional programs include a multi-day Whitewater Kayaking 201 course that focuses on advanced river skills and provides a certificate and free kayak rental upon completion. Private full-day kayak instruction is available for small groups (1–4), with gear, transportation, and lunch included for the season. The Full Day Whitewater Merit Badge program supports scout troops with river safety, hydrodynamics, navigation training and a culminating quiz to earn the merit badge.
Sierra South Mountain Sports operates on the Kern River corridor and the nearby Sierra Nevada trail network, including the Cannell Trail MTB Shuttle with dramatic altitude change. Many trips run in the spring and summer months, with specific seasonal windows for advanced Class V sections. The outfitter emphasizes clear trip descriptions, on-river guidance where noted, and logistics such as shuttles, gear and lunches when included.
Tours Offered
11
River and mountain adventures available
Location
Kernville, California
Sierra Nevada gateway on the Kern River
Guided Options
Professional guides
Professional guides for many trips
Season
Mar–Sep
Most trips run March through September
Reserve rafting, kayaking instruction, tubing, or the Cannell Trail shuttle — secure dates early for spring and summer availability.
Wear a properly fitted life jacket
A well-fitted personal flotation device is essential for safety on all whitewater trips.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Bring plenty of water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration under the sun.
Listen carefully to the safety briefing
Pay close attention during the orientation to understand river navigation and emergency protocols.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Choose synthetic materials that dry fast and keep you comfortable after splashes or falls.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Provides critical buoyancy and safety on the river.
Quick-drying clothing
Helps keep comfortable and prevents chafing after frequent exposure to water.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet and improves grip on slippery river rocks and boat floors.
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during prolonged exposure on the river.
summer