yuba river trips - Whitewater Voyages

Whitewater Voyages - 2010
YUBA RIVER TRIPS
TRIP MEETING TIME:
All Trips:
LOCAL WEATHER: www.weather.com ( Zip 95944)
9:30 a.m.
WATER FLOWS:
www.dreamflows.com
TRIP MEETING SITE:
Just Upstream of Fiddle Creek Bridge
Highway 49 between Camptonville & Downieville
(Highway 49 is accessed via Auburn on Highway 80)
Main Reservations Office (not a trip meeting site)
Whitewater Voyages, Inc.
5225 San Pablo Dam Rd.
El Sobrante, CA 94803
NOTE:
Yuba trips are wilderness trips…should you encounter
difficulties on the way to the meeting site it will not be possible
to make contact with your trip leader. We recommend staying
in an area campground or motel the night before your trip.
Phone
Fax
Email
Website
(800) 400-7238
(510) 758-7238
[email protected]
www.whitewatervoyages.com
DIRECTIONS
Please DO NOT GPS directions…most who do end up in the wrong place!
TO MEETING SITE FOR RAFTING
From Bay Area
1. Hwy 80 East to Auburn
2. At Auburn exit ―Hwy 49 North / Grass Valley / Nevada City
3. Travel north on Hwy 49 approx. 27 miles to Nevada City
4. Caution: At Nevada City, Hwy 49 splits into Hwy 49 and Hwy 20…stay on Hwy 49 by making a left turn
at the split – head north on 49 towards Downieville
5. From the split at Nevada City you will go approx 29 to 30 miles when the hwy crosses the north fork of the
river and you pass over the Fiddle Creek Bridge (just after Indian Valley Outpost on the left)
6. After crossing the bridge go approx 225 yards to the second little road on the left
7. Park off of 49 and meet our staff on the little road…from there we will caravan to our camp just upstream
TO WHITEWATER VOYAGES’ RIVER PARK “BP” CAMPGROUND IN COLOMA
Coloma is located on Highway 49…Highway 49 connects Highway 80 in Auburn to Highway 50 in Placerville. If you are camping with us (advance
reservations required)at BP the night before your rafting trip please go to Coloma; You will drive to Auburn in the morning.
From Bay Area
1. Highway 80 East towards Sacramento
2. Approaching Sacramento, Highway 80 splits—80 Reno/50 Tahoe—take the 50 towards Tahoe
3. From the initial 80/50 split, you will travel approximately 40 miles on Highway 50
4. Exit on Ponderosa Road (Exit 37) in Shingle Springs (after Cameron Park but before Placerville)
5. At exit stoplight turn left onto the overpass
6. At the end of the overpass, at the 2nd stoplight (the 2nd light is only a tiny distance from the 1st light), turn right onto
North Shingle Springs Road
7. After approximately five miles, North Shingle Springs Road curves left and becomes ―Lotus Road‖
8. Stay on Lotus Road approximately six more miles—following signs toward Coloma / Lotus
9. Lotus Road will end Highway 49 (a 3-way stop sign)—turn left onto Highway 49
10. Almost immediately after turning onto Highway 49 you will cross over the river
11. After crossing the river, you will see River Park Village (a tiny shopping center) on the left
12. Turn left into the first entrance by the Post Office sign; wind right and drive between a row of little businesses, then
swing left…you will see the entrance to our campground
From South Lake Tahoe
a.
b.
c.
Highway 50 West
When going through Placerville, hook onto Highway 49 (a right turn at a signal light)
Follow 49 about 20 miles…when you pass Lotus Rd. on your left you are entering Coloma (the Sierra Nevada House
Restaurant is on the left on the corner of 49 and Lotus Rd.) After you pass Lotus Road on the left you will almost
immediately cross over the river…then follow steps 11 and 12 above.
Whitewater Voyages - 2010
YUBA RIVER TRIPS
CAMPING
LOCAL MOTELS
Some of the properties below, while historical or
quaint, due to their remote location, have quite strict
cancellation policies or minimum stay requirements.
Please inquire with the properties directly.
There are several U.S. Forest Service campgrounds located
in quiet, primitive areas along the North Fork of the Yuba
River that are accessible from Hwy 49. Most campgrounds
are ―first come, first serve.‖
Downieville
The Ranger Station can provide information on these and
other area campgrounds:
Fiddle Creek
(100 yards past Fiddle Creek Bridge)
Rocky Rest
(One mile beyond Fiddle Creek Bridge)
Indian Valley
(One mile beyond Fiddle Creek Bridge)
Ramshorn
(Six miles beyond Fiddle Creek Bridge)
Union Flat
(Six miles east of Downieville)
Riverside Inn
Sierra Shangri-La
Carriage House Inn
(530) 289-1000
(530) 289-3455
(530) 289-3573
Grass Valley
Best Western Gold Country Inn
Golden Chain Resort Motel
Holiday Lodge**
(530) 273-1393
(530) 273-7279
(530) 273-4406
**Mention Whitewater Voyages for 10% discount
Nevada City
Red Castle Inn
North Yuba Ranger Station……..……….(530) 288-3231
(800) 761-4766
Sierra City
Additional camping information and links can
be found on our website at
www.whitewatervoyages.com
Herrington’s Sierra Pines
(530) 862-1151
(800) 682-9848
PLEASE DO NOT TAKE CAR KEYS OR VALUABLES ON THE RIVER WITH YOU.
Please arrange a hide-a-key for your vehicle.
WET SUITS
Wet suits are typically required through May and early June on Lower North trips.
Wet suit rentals should be reserved, pre-sized and prepaid through our main reservations office at (800) 400-7238.
Wet suits are required at all times for Upper North trips. For Class V Upper North Yuba trip, wet suits are provided at no charge.
Paddle jackets are provided with wet suit rentals (paddle jackets can be rented separately if desired), however, booties are not included
and are not available for rent. Please bring sturdy, warm shoes and wool socks.
If you have your own wet suit you are welcome to use it.
Please see separate chart for information on rental items, wet suit sizing and rental pricing.
MEALS
One-Day trips: Lunch along the river. Lunch consists of variety breads, deli-meats, cheese, vegetables, fruit, cookies and punch.
Two-das Trips: 1st day—lunch as described above, happy hour with soft drinks and snacks, and barbeque dinner with choice of chicken, fish or
beef, salad, potato or pasta, vegetables, French bread and dessert. 2nd day—hearty cookout breakfast and deli-buffet lunch.
Vegetarians usually find sufficient accommodation—however special requests are accepted
and should be submitted to the main reservations office.
Clients are permitted to bring their own alcoholic beverages for consumption in camp after rafting on two-day trips.
To preserve an enjoyable mood for everyone on the trip…we recommend moderation in alcohol consumption.
Please note that alcohol is prohibited while rafting or engaged in any river activity.
2010
WET SUIT ARRANGEMENTS
Trip
PRE-PAY
Through
Reservations
Office
Required
Through May
& In Cool
Weather
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
n/a
n/a
n/a
Yes
Yes
Yes
n/a
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
American – South Fork
American – Middle Fork
American – North Fork
Kaweah
Kern – Lower & Upper
Kern – Forks *
Kern – Thunder Run *
Kings – All Trips *
Merced
Tuolumne
Yuba - Lower
Yuba–Upper*
PRE-SIZE
Through
Reservations
Office
Always
Required
Size At River
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
* There is no charge for wet suits on Class V trips or Kings River trips.
If you have your own wet suit you are welcome to use it. Voyages’ wet suits are 3mm-thick Farmer John neoprene with nylon
paddling jacket. Wet suits should be worn over bathing suit, lightweight non-cotton shorts or polypropylene long underwear. We
recommend wearing baggy shorts over your wet suit to reduce slipping on raft. Wet suit rentals do not include booties. We
recommend tennis shoes with thick wool or polypropylene socks. Water-sock type slippers do not provide adequate protection.
Please note that wearing any cotton with your wet suit will make you colder. A hat is recommended during cool
weather—either wool or an alternate insulating material.
WET SUIT SIZING
Height Range
5’1”
5’4”
5’8”
6’1”
6’3”
Weight Range
5’3”
5’7”
6’0”
6’2”
6’4”
100
115
140
180
220
Size
115
140
180
220
240
Small
Medium
Large
XLarge
XX Large
RENTAL ITEMS PRICING
1/2 Day
1 Day
2 Days
3 Days
Adult / Regular Price
8.00
15.00
25.00
30.00
Youth & Senior Price
7.00
12.00
20.00
24.00
Group Price (12 or more)
6.00
10.00
18.00
22.00
3.00
5.00
8.00
10.00
1 Night
2 Nights
3 Nights
SLEEPING BAG w/ PAD
10.00
15.00
20.00
TENT (2-person size)
15.00
20.00
25.00
WETSUIT
PADDLE JACKET ONLY
WHITEWATER VOYAGES
RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT
PLEASE BRING THIS FORM, (SIGNED) TO
YOUR TRIP CHECK-IN.
This is a release. Read it carefully before signing. This release essentially states that I know I am going on a whitewater rafting trip in a wilderness/outdoor environment -- not
on an amusement park ride or to an air-conditioned shopping mall. As a result of the inherent risks in this activity, I know I may die, get hurt, or damage my belongings. If any of these
occur, I understand that I cannot make a claim, sue, or expect WHITEWATER VOYAGES, its owners, officers,
agents, employees, associates, the State of California, its Department of Parks and Recreation, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Placer County Water Agency,
and Sacramento Municipal Utility District (hereinafter referred to collectively as WHITEWATER VOYAGES) to be legally responsible or pay for any damages.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND ACCEPTANCE OF RISKS: I, the undersigned, hereby acknowledge that I have voluntarily chosen to go on this whitewater rafting trip with WHITEWATER
VOYAGES. Certain risks are inherent in any recreational activity and cannot be eliminated, altered, or controlled, and these risks that contribute to the unique character of the activity can
also be the cause of injury, illness, death, and damages. I know and fully understand that a whitewater rafting trip, whether on a raft, oar boat, kayak, or any other type of vessel, is an outdoor
adventure activity in wilderness environment with inherent risks and hazards where serious accidents can occur, participants can die, sustain injuries and property damage. Also, I understand
that Class IV and V represent the most difficult and dangerous levels of whitewater and recognize that the risks associated with whitewater rafting are greatly increased.
I acknowledge and willingly assume all risks and hazards in whitewater rafting and river-related camping from the pre-embarkation rendezvous until the conclusion of the trip,
including, but not limited to, (1) loss of control of the raft, falls in, out, or about the raft, collision with other participants, equipment, other rafts, rocks, trees, and any portion of the interior
of the raft, and any other man-made or natural obstacles, whether obvious or not; (2) judgment, decision-making and conduct of the guides; (3) submersion in water, drowning; (4)
encounters with animals, wildlife and insects; (5) exposure to wilderness environment, extreme temperatures, and inclement weather, remote areas, wilderness terrain, including travel
by foot or vehicle in any way related to this activity, whether at camp or elsewhere; (6) assistance in lifting and/or carrying rafting equipment; (7) rescue-related injuries; and (8)
unavailability of immediate and appropriate medical attention in case of injury.
I further understand and acknowledge that WHITEWATER VOYAGES provides foot cups in some of its boats to assist participants in stabilizing themselves. The use of foot cups
may present an increased risk of knee, ankle, or other injuries because of their restrictive nature. Use of foot cups is totally voluntary.
I understand and acknowledge that the above list is not complete or exhaustive, and that other risks, known or unknown, anticipated or unanticipated, may also exist and result
in injury, illness, disease, death or damage. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary and I elect to do so at my own risk.
RELEASE: In consideration for WHITEWATER VOYAGES allowing me to participate on this trip, I voluntarily agree to release, discharge, and hold harmless WHITEWATER VOYAGES and
for any and all claims of liability arising out of their negligence, fault, recklessness, or any other act or omission which causes the undersigned illness, injury, disease, death, and damages of any
nature in any way connected with my participation in this rafting activity. I also expressly agree to release and discharge WHITEWATER VOYAGES from any act or omission of negligence in
rendering or failing to render any type of rescue, emergency or medical services. In signing this document, I fully recognize and understand that if I (or any minor on whose behalf I am signing
this release) am hurt, die, or my property is damaged, I am giving up my right to make a claim or file a lawsuit against WHITE WA TER VOYAGES, even if they negligently or by some
other act or omission cause the injury or damage.
I further agree, to hold harmless, defend, and indemnify WHITEWATER VOYAGES from all defense costs, including attorney's fees incurred in connection with claims for
bodily injury, wrongful death, or property damage, sustained by any minor under 18 years of age on whose behalf I am signing, or which I may have caused to spectators or other third
parties, whether negligent or not, in the course of my participation in this activity.
As parent or legal guardian of a participant under 18 years of age, I have read and voluntarily agree that said minor may participate in this whitewater rafting trip, and I sign this
release on their behalf and on the behalf of the minor's parents and/or legal guardians. In addition, I give W HITEWATER VOYAGES permission to treat said minor in case of illness, injury,
emergency, or accident. Should emergency medical services become necessary, for the undersigned participant or minor, the expenses are the sole responsibility of the participant and not
that of WHITEWATER VOYAGES. Personal medical and travel insurance is strongly advised for all participants.
WHITEWATER VOYAGES reserves the right to accept or deny service to any person. I hereby agree to follow all rules, regulations, and instructions of WHITEWATER
VOYAGES while on this trip. I also certify that I and any minor on whose behalf I am signing, are physically and mentally capable of participating in these activities. I hereby represent that I have
informed WHITEWATER VOYAGES of any pertinent medical conditions that may affect my or the minor's participation in these rafting activities. I hereby agree that WHITEWATER VOYAGES may
use film or photographic records of this rafting trip for its promotional and/or commercial purposes.
The Venue of any dispute that may arise out of this agreement or otherwise between the parties to which WHITEWATER VOYAGES or its agents is a party shall be either the
town of El Sobrante, California, Justice Court or the County or State Supreme Court in Contra Costa County.
Guide school/skills workshop participants: I understand that Whitewater Voyages is not certifying my guiding proficiency or readiness to go to another outfitter and guide right
away after this training. I understand I will need additional extended training and practice to acquire proficiency in the skills being taught.
I HAVE READ THIS DOCUMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY. I UNDERSTAND THAT I AM ASSUMING ALL THE RISKS INHERENT IN THIS WHITE WA TER RAFTING ACTIVITY. I UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS A
RELEASE OF ANY AND ALL CLAIMS. I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS THE ENTIRE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNDERSIGNED AND WHITE WA TER VOYAGES, THEIR OWNERS, OFFICERS, AGENTS,
AND EMPLOYEES, AND THAT IT CANNOT BE MODIFIED OR CHANGED IN ANY WAY BY THE REPRESENTATIONS OR STATEMENTS BY WHITE WA TER VOYAGES OR BY THE UNDERSIGNED. I
VOLUNTARILY SIGN MY NAME AS EVIDENCE OF MY ACCEPTANCE OF ALL THE PROVISIONS IN THIS RELEASE AND MY AGREEMENT TO BE BOUND BY THEM.
Present this form at the river. Please print clearly.
Name (please print)
Day Phone
Address
City, State, Zip
Evening Phone
E-mail Address: In the future we will be communicating mainly by e-mail and our webs ite.
Rafting Date(s)
Date of Birth
Trip Length (No. of Days on the River - Please circle one): Days:
River(s)
½
Are you over 18?
U Yes
1
2
3
4
5 or More 1 Hour
U No* L Accompanying adult must sign & date here:
Signature (If under 18 parent or legal guardian must sign here also*)
Today’s Date
Reservation No.
N
*Minors not accompanied by their parent must bring this form signed by their parent or legal guardian. Adult accompanying the minor must also sign this release as a verification of the
parent/guardian signature. (Summer Camp & Camp RAFT courses excluded.)
2010 Release Form (all rivers other than Kings River)
Whitewater Voyages
GENERAL INFORMATION / CANCELLATION POLICY
Whitewater Voyage will establish a reservation for you on a tentative basis. Depending on the date on which you make the
reservation and the date of the trip, a due date is set for the non-refundable deposit required to confirm the reservation (typically 10
days from the date the reservation is made). Once confirmed by a deposit your reservation is guaranteed. Any balance beyond the
deposit amount is due 30 days prior to the trip. Please note that all payments are non-refundable and subject to the cancellation/trip
credit policy outlined below.
Payments may me made by phone with a credit or debit card—or by mail with a check or credit card instructions. If making a
payment by mail, please indicate the reservation number or trip date/river/reservation name so that your payment can be applied
accurately.
Please understand that when a reservation is made with Whitewater Voyages it is a commitment for us to hold space for you and refrain
from selling that particular trip space to anyone else. The agencies that manage and govern the rivers hold permitted outfitters to strict
policies…including the prohibition of double-booking or over-booking trip space; once you reserve trip space we must remove that space from the
market. Some agencies require that anticipated unused space be reported prior to trip dates (meaning a penalty is imposed on Whitewater Voyages
when trip space that is expected to be filled goes unutilized by “no shows”). When we make a reservation for you—that you secure with nonrefundable payment—it becomes an assured/guaranteed reservation. If you decide to cancel, we may not be able to rebook the space—
especially in the case of cancellations made close to the departure date.
With these things in mind we must be firm in adhering to the following cancellation/refund policy.
No refunds for cancellations, late arrivals that miss trip departure, or no shows.
If you must cancel you will receive a credit for a future Whitewater Voyages trip as follows:
If you cancel:

at least 60 days prior to the trip: 90% trip credit

at least 30 days prior to the trip: 50% trip credit

at least 10 days prior to the trip: 20% trip credit

less than 10 days prior to the trip and before 5:00 pm the last weekday prior to the trip: 10% trip credit

no credit for cancellations after 5:00 pm the last weekday prior to the trip

no credit for “no shows”
There are no exceptions to these terms. You may, however, substitute another person in your place without penalty.
We regret that exceptions cannot be made for personal emergencies or illness. For this reason we urge our guests to purchase trip
cancellation insurance when making reservation. Trip Cancellation Insurance information (800-243-3174).
You may choose to switch rivers from the one selected in your original reservation for a transfer fee of $25 per person.
Whitewater Voyages is not liable for any other costs incurred in association with a reservation for a cancelled trip.
Whitewater Voyages assumes no liability for damages or losses incurred in the course of, or associated to your trip.
In the event that circumstances (extreme weather, water fluctuations or factors beyond our control) necessitate a trip to be
Cancelled by Whitewater Voyages a full refund or trip credit will be made—limited to the actual amount paid to Whitewater Voyages.
Safety is our primary concern—we ask that participants not consume alcoholic beverages or substances that impair their judgment or physical
dexterity in a reasonable period of time prior to getting on the water.
Minors under 18 not accompanied by their parent or legal guardian must bring to the river a release form signed by their parent or legal guardian.
Adults accompanying minors must also sign the release as a verification of the parent/guardian signature.
Dear Whitewater Voyages’ Patrons,
For those of you who have rafted with us in past years we extend a huge, warm “Thank
You!”
To those rafting with us for the first time we say “Welcome!” We greatly appreciate the
opportunity to serve you and hope that your trip is a wonderful and memorable
experience.
We want to highlight a policy change for 2010 pertaining to happy hour. Some clients
will applaud the decision, some will not…but for reasons concerning liability, ethics,
client safety and employee welfare, Whitewater Voyages has decided to cease the provision
of alcoholic beverages at happy hour.
We are not prohibiting alcohol altogether—clients may furnish their own alcohol for
personal consumption during evening off-the-water trip time. As has always been our
policy, alcohol is strictly forbidden while rafting or engaged in any river activity. While
permitting clients to bring beverages that suit their personal preference, we do ask that a
sense of moderation prevail—especially in the presence of minors.
It is our goal to provide a fun, uplifting atmosphere for all—with safety the highest
concern. We hope you understand the change we have implemented…if not, please don’t
hesitate to contact us at 800-400-7238.
Whitewater Voyages’ Staff
Whitewater Voyages’ River Park Campground (nicknamed BP)
We’re so glad you’re joining us to raft and camp! Please take a moment to read the following…
Campsite Assignments / Arrival & Departure

Camp sites are available at 5:00 p.m. on your date of arrival. Sites should be vacated by 10:00 a.m. on the day
of departure if you are rafting that day, or by 1:00 p.m. if you are not rafting on the day of departure.
You are not required to leave the campground upon vacating your camp site—you may stay and enjoy activities in the camp or
hang out down by the river. But we do ask that you pack up and empty your camp site as outlined above on your scheduled
departure day so that it is accessible to the next party arriving.

We are pleased to provide complimentary camping to our rafting guests…but doing so requires that we keep the cost of
administration to a minimum.. Typically we do not pre-assign campsites to small parties. For larger parties, especially on
weekends, it is necessary for us to designate sites. Sometimes we are able to allocate sites according to client preferences, but
sometimes we must assign campsites according to group size and total campground utilization.

If you have requested a particular campsite we do our best to honor that request, however we cannot guarantee specific
sites. Please understand that we must take into consideration all parties that need space in our campground—and that we may
have to assign a spot other than the one requested. In some cases clients requests a site that accommodates more people and
tents than is necessary for their party alone—in such cases we may assign the site on a shared basis…other smaller parties may be
assigned to share the site.

Camping assignments are posted on the letter board on the front, left side of the white train-boxcar that serves as our camp store
and trip meeting place. If you are a small party and do not find your reservation name assigned to a particular campsite you may
choose any site that is not pre-assigned to another party.
Sites Typically Pre-Assigned:
Paradise Plateau
Upper Camp
Beach Up-River
Nouveau Plateau
Baja Plaza
Beach Down-River
An attendant is on duty Thursday-Saturday from 5:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m. to assist arriving campers. If you arrive after 8:00 p.m. you will
need to find a roaming guide that can help point the way to your campsite. We have hand-wagons available for your use in transporting
your camping gear to your site. The campground can be extremely dark so please bring flashlights.
There is a store on the property where you can purchase great looking t-shirts, hats, and water shoes as well as disposable water cameras,
sunscreen, inexpensive sunglasses and chums, beverages, snacks and ice cream.
Pets
We dearly love animals…but regretfully cannot allow them in the campground. Some people are frightened of dogs and some are allergic.
Besides, it’s unfair to your pet to be tied up while you’re on the river…and our insurance prohibits pets on the property.
Restroom Facilities
There is a conventional, though small, restroom with separate facilities for men and women that each have two flush toilets and three
showers with solar heated water. There are also a few portable toilets on the property. Please forgive us for discussing this delicate
matter…but our septic system is sensitive. We ask that you help us keep it operating by flushing only small amounts of toilet paper. Please
feel free to flush multiple times if necessary bearing in mind that a large amounts of toilet paper clogs the system making the restrooms
unusable for everyone!
Thank you for rafting with us and enjoy your stay in our campground!
North Yuba River
An ideal spring paddle-rafting river close to the San Francisco Bay Area, the clear slender and sparkling
North Yuba issues from Yuba Pass high in Tahoe National Forest to quicken down a narrow canyon of
pounding rapids and great natural beauty. Lush, scented conifer forests adorn the steep canyon walls, while willow,
sycamore and alder snuggle against the glistening banks.
Lower North Yuba
(Class III-IV) Goodyears Bar to Fiddle Creek
A substantial step up from the South Fork American, the dashing, nearly continuous whitewater of the Lower
North Yuba makes an excellent choice for adventurous first-timers and experienced rafters alike. An especially
spectacular feature of this run is Maytag, a class V cataract just upstream from Fiddle Creek around which many
choose to walk. The benefit of our two day trips is the opportunity to experience this fabulous run twice!!
Upper North Yuba
(Class V) Union Flat to Goodyears Bar
Whipped foamy white, the North Yuba from Union Flat to Goodyears Bar, wails down a tight riverbed of high
drops and precipitous boulder gardens. Highlights include the wild tumult of Moss Canyon and the class V
rigors of Rosassco Ravine just above Goodyears Bar.
Note: Depending on water levels, we sometimes vary the itinerary of these trips by doing double Moss
Canyons, double Rosasscos, or other options, including moving upstream to the class V wild plum run.
Union Flat Campground
Downieville
New Bullard’s Bar
Reservoir
Rossasco Ravine
Goodyears Bar
Fiddle Creek
Whitewater Voyages
1-800-400-RAFT
WHAT TO BRING FOR RAFTING
Standard Gear Everyone Should Bring For Rafting
Secure head strap for eyeglasses or sunglasses (if worn)
Secure chin strap for hat or visor (if worn)
Clothing appropriate to time season
See guidelines below for summer and spring/fall trips
Protective footwear
Tennis shoes that lace tightly, wet suit booties, or rugged, protective sandals that securely strap
on. Bare feet or thongs are not safe!
Plastic water bottle
We have jugs on the rafts to replenish your bottles from.
Waterproof or Disposable Camera
Towel
Change of clothes for the drive home
Magnetic hide-a-key for your car keys
If you wish you may leave your keys in the care of our staff while you are on the river. Do not
take your keys on the river with you!
Clothing Guidelines
Summer
Swim suit or shorts
Sunblock
Plan to use plenty of sun protection cream with a high SPF# on exposed skin; don’t put
sunscreen on your forehead…splashes of water will wash it down into your eyes!
Sun hat or visor
(with chin strap to prevent hat loss).
Spring & Fall
Warm clothing
Plenty of warm clothes made of synchilla, polarplus, wool, fleece, capilene and similar materials
which insulate well even when damp. Please avoid wearing cotton which when wet does not
provide insulation and in cool or cold weather make you colder!
Waterproof paddle jacket, windbreaker or rain suit.
Wool hat
(or synchilla, polarplus, etc.)
Wet suit
Wet suits are recommended on all rivers through May and year-round on Class V rivers. Wet
suits may be rented from Whitewater Voyages (in some cases they are provided with trip without
rental fees—see Wet Suit & Tent Rental chart). Whitewater Voyages’ wet suits do not come with
booties—you must provide your own footwear. If rain or cold weather is a possibility bring
extra wool, capilene or pile clothing and a rain jacket or windbreaker to wear over the wet suit.
Cloth shorts worn over wet suits make you less slippery and help you stay in the raft.
WHAT TO BRING FOR OVERNIGHT RAFTING TRIPS
Essential Camping Gear For All Trips
Flashlight
Personal toiletries & toothbrush (biodegradable soaps/shampoos if possible)
Insect Repellant
Towel
Clothes for camping and sleeping (keep in mind cool evening air)
Shoes & socks appropriate for hiking—or loafing around
Tent (or tarp to lay on ground if you don’t bring tent)
Sleeping bag and mattress pad
Trip logistics on some rivers make it possible for you to bring optional gear—while logistics on
other rivers require that gear be kept to a minimum. Please locate the river of your trip in one of
the following sections and see what gear limitations apply to your river.
Lower Kern, Kaweah, Kings, South Fork American or Yuba Rivers
Your camping gear is either transported to camp by a Whitewater Voyages’ vehicle, or you park near
camp, meaning you can bring optional items beyond the essential gear outlined above.
Folding camp chairs
Personal ice chest
We supply meals and beverages with your trip, however, if you would like to ensure that any
personal tastes or needs you have are met you are welcome to bring along any food or beverage
items you wish.
Fishing gear
Light fly or spinning gear which disassembles into a compact protectie case is best.
Fishing licenses are required.
Playing cards, small games or a guitar
Middle Fork American, Tuolumne
Your camping gear is transported to camp by boat thus it is important to
keep gear to a comfortable minimum as outlined in the essential gear list.
The Forks of the Kern
You backpack in two miles while your gear is transported by mule pack train…
it is important to keep gear to essentials.
Note: Compact fishing gear is ok.