Rafting Classifications

Rafting Classifications

There are a wide variety of conditions that can affect a river's rating, and therefore ratings are not fixed. Conditions such as season, rainfall, weather conditions and human-controlled flow can change a river's rating.

The six river classifications are given below;

Class I- Easy;

Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. The river has few obstacles, all are clear and easy to navigate with little training. The risk to swimmers is low and self-rescue is easy.

Class II- Beginner;

Simple boots with wide, clear channels that are visible without leaving any traces. Sometimes maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves can be easily dodged by trained people. Swimmers are rarely injured, and group assistance is rarely needed when helping out. Rafts at the upper end of this difficulty range are called Class 2+.

Class III- Medium;

Moderate, irregularly wavy rafts that are difficult to avoid and can sink an open kayak. There is often fast current at passes or around ledges and complex maneuvers are often required for good boat control. Large waves or voltages may be present but can be easily avoided. Especially in larger volume rivers there are strong current effects. Scouting is recommended for inexperienced people. Injuries during swimming are rare and self-rescue is usually easy, but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims. Rafts at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are called "Class III-" or "Class III+".

Class IV - Advanced;

These are intense and strong but predictable currents that require precise boat handling in turbulent water. It may involve large, unavoidable waves and holes or narrow passages that require quick maneuvers under pressure. A quick and reliable vortex turn may be required to initiate maneuvers, expeditions or rest. Rapids may require forced movements above hazards. Reconnaissance is often required during the initial download. Swimmers are at moderate to high risk of injury, and water conditions can make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential and requires practical skill. For skiers, it is recommended to use a strong Eskimo roller. Rafts at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated "Class IV-" or "Class IV+".

Class V- Expert;

Extremely long, obstructed or very violent rapids expose a paddler to risk. Rapids can include large, unavoidable waves and holes, or steep, clogged channels with complex and challenging routes. Rapids can be maintained for long distances between pools, requiring a high level of suitability. What exists is small, turbulent or difficult to reach. More difficult Class V rapids may combine several of these factors. Scouting is recommended and can be challenging. Swimsuits are dangerous and rescue is often difficult for specialized teams. Proper equipment, extensive experience and hands-on rescue skills are essential. There is a wide range of difficulty that exists beyond Class IV, which makes the difficulty at Class V pace very diverse.

Class VI- Expert and Reconnaissance;

These rapids have rarely been attempted and represent extreme difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of mistakes can be severe and recovery may not be possible. These rapids are for expert crews with suitable water levels. After Class VI has been operated successfully several times, its rating can be changed to Class V.