Ready to advance your whitewater skills? Join Sierra South Mountain Sports in Kernville for a thrilling 2-3 day kayaking course that teaches essential techniques on the Kern River.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness, core strength, and endurance to handle extended paddling and quick maneuvering in fast currents.
Wildlife
History
Kernville was a historic gold rush town and developed as a prime whitewater destination along the Kern River.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups help protect the Kern River’s water quality and riparian habitats, ensuring sustainable recreation and wildlife preservation.
Sierra South Mountain Sports
Ready to advance your whitewater skills? Join Sierra South Mountain Sports in Kernville for a thrilling 2-3 day kayaking course that teaches essential techniques 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 Life Jacket at All Times
A proper personal flotation device is mandatory for safety on whitewater rapids.
Practice Paddle Strokes Beforehand
Familiarity with basic strokes will help you focus on advanced maneuvers during the course.
Check Weather and River Conditions
River flow can change rapidly; always confirm conditions before your trip day.
Use Waterproof Bags for Essentials
Protect your phone, camera, and snacks from splashes and accidental submersion.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Critical for safety during all whitewater kayaking sessions.
Helmet
Protects your head from rocks and impacts in rapid waters.
Wetsuit or Dry Suit
Keeps you warm and dry during colder river conditions.
spring|fall|winter
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps valuables and extra clothes dry while on the river.