Upper Kern Full Day Class V Rafting

The Upper Kern Full Day Class V offers intrepid river runners a full day of Class IV-V whitewater rafting. This is our most challenging trip. The trip can take place on the Thunder Run or Chamise Gorge sections of the Upper Kern depending on water flows.

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• 6% online booking convenience fee included

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Duration

6-7 hours

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About

For a short time in the spring, the snowmelt offer’s the Upper Kern Full Day Class V. The class V season is typically mid-April through mid-July. For the adventure seekers, the Thunder Run or Chamise Gorge sections of the Upper Kern are the most difficult one-day raft trips we offer. The Thunder Run has continuous class IV-V rapids with names like Sock’em Dog, Squashed Paddler and Fender Bender. Chamise Gorge has class IV-V rapids called Helicopter Rock, Satan's Slot, Black Bottom Falls. You will definitely get your fill of huge whitewater and come away with some great stories. All class V participants must be physically fit, good swimmers and have previous class IV experience. A Class V Paddlers Evaluation is required prior to running class V whitewater. A hearty riverside Deli lunch is served mid-day to fuel you for more whitewater to come. Wetsuits are required on all class V trips. Max group size 25 guests.

The Class V Paddlers Evaluation is not competitive. The purpose of the test is to evaluate the ability of guests to deal with situations we might encounter. It is also done to emphasize teamwork, build confidence, and as a tool for you to judge your readiness to paddle class V whitewater. Class V rafting is strenuous and adventurous. For those who are ready, it is an incredibly fulfilling experience. Class V rafting requires full participation, teamwork, and paddlers who are in good physical condition.

The Class V Paddlers Evaluation may include:

Calisthenics and running Hang from a bar for one minute On river swimming and river skills, including swimming across currents, catching eddies, swimming through class II-III rapid Throwbag practice A Class V Paddle Talk The exact makeup of this test is at the discretion of the trip leader and will depend on the river, water level, and the paddlers.

Sierra South reserves the right to turn away those that we feel are not ready to tackle the class V trip. We may also substitute a class IV trip as an alternative. If we cancel a trip because the customer is not ready for class V whitewater, the customer will receive a refund, less a $25 processing fee per person.

Participating in a Class V Paddlers Evaluation in no way certifies your ability to successfully paddle class V whitewater or guarantees your safety.

Sierra South reserves the right to substitute oar/paddle combinations for paddle boats.

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Highlights:

• Exciting and intense class IV-V run • This run is highly sensitive to high or low water conditions Please contact us for up-to-the-minute water conditions. • Paddlers Evaluation to determine ability to run class V • Includes Deli Lunch

• Months of operation: April - July • Trip Times: 9:30 AM • Minimums: Age: 16 Weight: 50lbs (We may weigh small children) • Maximum Weight: 300lbs • Limitations: All trips require a minimum number of guests. If participant numbers are not met we will notify you and provide various options for your trip to go.

All of our trips may be adjusted based on water levels and/or other conditions. Wetsuits are required for this trip until mid-June.

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What to Bring

• We suggest you arrive at the store 30 minutes prior to the trip. Unless you have a group over 20 or are getting wetsuits, then please arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour prior. • Please wear shoes that will stay on your feet in the water. No flip-flops or bare-feet. You must wear tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals that have a heel strap. • Our trips leave on schedule. • Price does not include gratuity, so if you like the ride...it's ok to tip your guide! Bring cash for tips. Last-minute items in our retail store can be paid by cash, credit or debit card.