White Knuckled Whitewater

Whitewater can be fun for everyone, but when planning a vacation, keep in mind that Class I, II and III are a fun family adventure, while Classes IV and V are for the experienced only. For the adventurous, fast water makes for good times. Here are three of the best Class IV and V rapids in the country.

COLORADO
EAGLE RIVER
ABOUT 2 HOURS FROM DENVER
Just outside of Eagle County, located in the Vail Valley, is one of Colorado’s best rivers for whitewater. Most of the river offers Class III rapids, but the Dowd Chute, located at Dowd Junction and the confluence with Gore Creek, is a nearly continuous four-mile boulder garden, where rapids fluctuate between Class III and V, depending on the flow of the river. Because Colorado whitewater can be chillier than other rivers, a wetsuit is recommended, even when rafting in the summer months. www.eaglecounty.us

NORTH CAROLINA
WATAUGA RIVER
ABOUT 2 HOURS FROM CHARLOTTE
Located just outside of Asheville, N.C., the Watauga Gorge, above the Watauga Lake, is a spectacular but not too well-known stretch that has nearly continuous Class IV whitewater and a couple of Class V drops. In all, the five-mile gorge has 15 rapids rated Class IV or greater. The river’s action starts with three steep Class IV rapids, followed by Class V hydro, so be ready to go as soon as you hit the water. This is one river that requires quick decisions and precision maneuvering—whitewater gold for experienced rafters. www.visitnc.com

CALIFORINA
THE AMERICAN RIVER
3 HOURS FROM SAN FRANCISCO
This nine-mile Chamberlain Falls run offers spectacular whitewater through a canyon protected under the California Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. During the first half of the trip, the river drops through narrow boulder-filled Class IV+ rapids. Rafting on the free-flowing North Fork depends upon snow melt from the Desolation Wilderness region of the High Sierras, west of Lake Tahoe. Since the trip is considered a step up from the Class II-III South Fork, outfitters prefer rafters to have had Class III whitewater experience. www.theamericanriver.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

Class I Moving water with small waves that tug at the boat—it’s a relaxing way to spend the day.

Class II Easy rapids, waves up to 3 feet that are readily seen and wide channels. Some maneuvering required for this rock and roll. Waves up to 4 feet and narrow passages can send a boat shimmying and water gushing over its sides.

Class III Difficult rapids, narrow passages and turbulent water that requires precise maneuvering.

Class IV All of the above and then some—large, complex, gushing rapids, twisting and spinning to deliver the consummate adrenaline rush.

Class V The ultimate extreme, only the most expert should attempt this. Raft trips don’t go here. There’s too much other water to enjoy.