Kern River Half Day Rafting & Kayaking in Kernville, CA
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with the ability to paddle actively and endure several hours of river activity.
Overview
Experience the thrill of California’s Kern River on a half-day rafting and kayaking adventure. Navigate legendary rapids like Big Daddy, enjoy expert guides, and try multiple runs for an unforgettable outdoor thrill.
Kern River Half Day World Famous Guided Rafting & Kayaking
5.5 Hours • Ages 5+ • Very popular!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of the Kern River with its renowned "Lickety Split" rafting adventure! Tackle the highest concentration of exhilarating whitewater rapids, including Big Daddy and Sidewinder. Enjoy multiple runs, try different rafts and kayaks, and bond with your group in this unforgettable half-day experience led by expert guides.
#Experience Multiple Trips on THE World-Famous & BEST-IN-CLASS River Run in SoCal!
#Have Questions? Chat with our Kern River Team at 801-404-8297! Call or Text
##Duration 5.5 hours
##About Known as "Lickety Split" or the "Town Run", experience rafting a stretch of whitewater that has HIGHEST concentration of BIG whitewater rapids for its length & accessibility.
Perfect for thrill-seekers & adrenaline enthusiasts, this run is classic whitewater at its finest & a great introduction to the famous Kern River!
This exhilarating Kern River rafting trip promises excitement with rapids such as Big Daddy, Sidewinder, Freight Train & Ewings!
Your group can run this river section multiple times & so get ready for fun!
After your first trip, you'll know what to expect & be ready to tackle the rapids on your next runs.
Try out different rafts & kayaks on subsequent runs too. We'll have a variety of rafts & kayaks ready for everyone!
##Why Come With Us## Our professional guides are known for how much we care! We will guide you on the type of Kern River trip you want.
Your guided trip is safe & it's good for children & adults of most abilities.
##What's Included## Professional river guide(s) Your choice of 14-foot or 9-foot durable, stable & easy-to-paddle rafts & single & two-person inflatable kayaks US Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (we have life jackets that fit toddles up to XXXL) Raft & kayak paddles Shuttle Kern River orientation Safety talk
##Why Go Rafting?## Rafting is the perfect social activity that will bond your group as you work as a team to paddle your raft!
Kayaking the Kern River is exciting & fun! Challenge yourself as you take on the rapids in your own kayak or team-up with a friend on a tandem inflatable kayak.
We use durable, high-quality inflatable rafts & kayaks that are very responsive, easy to paddle & get you into the whitewater action!
A Half Day or Kern River rafting & kayaking is fun for groups of friends, family reunions, special occasions & corporate team-building.
At Pro Rafting Tours, we go all out to bring our whitewater expertise & internationally award-winning guiding & outfitting services to every guest we guide on the Kern River!
Your safety is #1 to us. We can't wait to meet you!
##Special Note Your trip may not be private. If you want a private trip, select our Kern River Private & Customizable Group Trips.
##Groups Call for Pricing - Discounts Available!
#Still Have Questions? Chat with our Kern River Team at 801-404-8297! Call or Text
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-drying clothes
Choosing lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics will keep you comfortable both in and out of the water.
Bring waterproof sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong California sun exposure, especially on exposed river sections.
Secure personal items
Use waterproof bags or leave valuables behind as getting wet is guaranteed.
Listen carefully to your guide
Following expert instructions is critical for safety and maximizing fun on challenging rapids.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Bald eagles
History
The Kern River area holds significant history for California’s Native American tribes and was an important route during the Gold Rush era.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to maintain river water quality and habitat integrity through local stewardship programs focused on sustainable recreation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit or splash gear
Keeps you warm and comfortable in cooler water temperatures on the river.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water shoes
Protects your feet from rocks and provides good traction on slippery surfaces.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your essentials safe and dry during multiple runs on the river.
Hat with neck protection
Provides sun protection against harmful UV rays during exposed river stretches.
summer specific