Ready to master whitewater kayaking in beautiful Kernville? Join Sierra South Mountain Sports for a two-day beginner-friendly course focused on skills, safety, and fun on the Kern River.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days, approx. 6 hours per day
Fitness Level
Participants should have reasonable physical fitness with good upper body strength and stamina for paddling.
Wildlife
History
Kernville started as a gold rush town and evolved into a prime location for river recreation.
Conservation
Local organizations actively monitor river health and promote catch-and-release fishing to preserve aquatic ecosystems.
Sierra South Mountain Sports
Ready to master whitewater kayaking in beautiful Kernville? Join Sierra South Mountain Sports for a two-day beginner-friendly course focused on skills, safety, and fun on the Kern River.
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 Proper PFD
Always wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device to ensure safety on the water.
Arrive Hydrated and Energized
Bring water and light snacks to maintain energy levels throughout your paddling sessions.
Check Weather Conditions
Monitor local weather forecasts to avoid unexpected storms that could affect river flow and safety.
Use Quick-Dry Clothing
Wear moisture-wicking, quick-drying layers to stay comfortable both on and off the water.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A high-quality PFD is crucial for safety during whitewater kayaking.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers keep you comfortable both on and off the water.
spring
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sunburn during long hours exposed to the sun by the river.
summer
Neoprene Gloves
Keeps hands warm and provides better grip on the paddle during cooler weather.
fall