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The level of difficulty of rafting rivers is traditionally classified by a scale of I to VI. A rapid rated class VI is a very difficult river to navigate and therefore unrunnable. These rivers are typically portaged. The following scale will help you to decide what trip is best for you and your group.

The level of difficulty of a particular river can change dramatically as a result of varying water levels; most often this is a seasonal occurrence. For example, the South Fork is on average rated a class III river, however in times when the water level is high the rating may increase to a Class IV. The ratings listed below describe the rivers difficulty at both regular and medium water levels. On our guided trips, beginners can handle up to Class III runs.

CLASS I: EASY.Waves are generally quite small; passages clear of any major obstacles. FUN FOR EVERYONE.   CLASS II: MEDIUM. Rapids can be moderately complex, however, passages remain clear. FUN FOR EVERYONE.   CLASS III: DIFFICULT. Rapids are longer, and markedly more powerful. Paddlers are required to maneuver through forceful and irregular currents, rocks and holes in the channel. CHALLENGING.   CLASS IV: VERY DIFFICULT. Very long rapids; dangerous rocks and powerful waves and currents, boiling eddies mean that precise and powerful maneuvering is required. THRILLSEEKERS.   CLASS V: EXTREMELY DIFFICULT. Quite violent and long rapids follow each other with little interruption; a severely obstructed riverbed with big drops; seep gradient and a violent current. EXPERIENCED THRILLSEEKERS.

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