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Experience a full day of thrilling Class IV-V rapids on the Upper Kern River in Kernville. Tackle legendary runs like Sock’em Dog and enjoy a riverside lunch on this expert-level rafting journey.
Experience a full day of thrilling Class IV-V rapids on the Upper Kern River in Kernville. Tackle legendary runs like Sock’em Dog and enjoy a riverside lunch on this expert-level rafting journey.
Book with Sierra South Mountain Sports
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sierra South Mountain Sports · Kernville, California
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day on the Upper Kern River with Sierra South Mountain Sports' Full Day Class V Rafting experience. This trip offers thrill-seekers the rare opportunity to conquer challenging Class IV-V rapids including notorious runs like Sock’em Dog and Helicopter Rock. Starting mid-April through mid-July, expert guides lead a carefully structured adventure beginning with a thorough Paddlers Evaluation to ensure everyone’s safety and readiness. Participants will navigate intense whitewater stretches, offering both technical challenges and scenic views unique to California’s Kern River Canyon. A delicious riverside lunch breaks up the day, providing a perfect chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty before continuing downstream. This exclusive rafting trip combines raw excitement with expert guidance, making it ideal for experienced paddlers looking to push their limits. Whether you’re chasing rapid punches or craving a full-day immersion in demanding river conditions, the Upper Kern Full Day Class V rafting promises an unforgettable, high-energy outdoor adventure in Kernville’s spectacular setting.
expert.
6–8 hours.
Participants should be in excellent physical shape with strong endurance and swimming ability to handle intense rapids.
Yes, this Full Day Class V rafting trip is designed for expert paddlers with advanced whitewater skills.
Bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, water shoes, a hat, and any personal medication you may need.
Yes, the trip includes a delicious riverside lunch to refuel during the day.
The trip begins with a Paddlers Evaluation, and certified guides lead the trip with all necessary safety gear.
No, this is an expert-level trip best suited for experienced rafters familiar with challenging Class IV-V rapids.
The rafting season typically runs from mid-April to mid-July due to water levels and river conditions.
The Kern River has been an essential resource for local Native American tribes and was later a key area during California's gold rush era.
Efforts are ongoing to maintain the river’s ecosystem by minimizing pollution and advocating for responsible recreation practices.
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.
Book with Sierra South Mountain Sports