Why is whitewater so thrilling?

Whitewater river trips are more than a gateway into pristine wilderness area’s with gorgeous outdoor canyon scenery. And more than a super adventure paradise, world class expedition, ecotour, or back country river journey.

Be it whitewater in Idaho, Oregon, or even the Grand Canyon, the invigoration is essentially all the same. The wattage provoked by riding radical whitewater is an electrifying experience. The transfer of high energy from churning rapids to the stream of blood coursing through your veins will engage your spirit most dramatically.

It is the river’s invisible force that manifests its power into a feeling of euphoria capable of elevating you into a state of pure ecstasy.  It is impossible not to feel physical excitement from the sheer power of the river’s mysterious force.

Class I - VI ...what does it all mean?

Whitewater is rated from class I (basic flatwater), to Class VI (basic waterfalls). Most of what we run is class III and IV – which is of moderate difficulty, but highly exciting. While rare, the consequences for error might be an overturned boat or an unplanned swim. We also run some class V water, which is on the edge of a more serious danger zone where consequences for error can be more life threatening.

All rivers we run are pool and drop, meaning that each rapid is separated by slower moving flat water where you can relax, recompose, and drink in the scenery. Even though the whitewater provides the initial draw, people typically remember many of the other aspects of their trip that occurs off the river or when they are lazily floating along.

These extra side excursions is what we call the “side canyon effect.” It is an intoxicating splendor of pure natural beauty that makes you forget you are even on a river trip. That is, until you find yourself staring down the throat of another roaring rapid again, as your travel adventure continues to progress.