RIVER READINESS
What you need to know before you go!
THE NON-NEGOTIABLES - (Don’t even show up without these)
- Life Jacket (PFD) – Worn & buckled.
Not in the boat. Not “close by.” Not “I’ll put it on later.”
👉 If you can’t swim in it right now… you’re doing it wrong. - Helmet – If there are rocks, your head is not tougher than them.
👉 The river has a 100% win rate. - Proper Shoes – Closed toe.
👉 Flip flops and rivers don’t get along… your toes will thank you.
- Water & Snacks – Because tired + dehydrated = dumb decisions.
👉 And the river LOVES dumb decisions.
The 4 Things That Decide Your Day on the Water
💨 Wind
“Is it going to push me where I don’t want to go… or just make everything harder all day?”
👉 Wind can turn an easy paddle into a grind real fast
👉 Bonus: wind + water = waves (yes, even on lakes)
🌦 Weather
“Am I dressed for this… or about to be cold, wet, and questioning my life choices?”
👉 Conditions change fast—sun, rain, temp drops
👉 Sunburn and hypothermia both count as bad decisions
🌊 Waves
“Is this water calm… or about to start tossing me around?”
👉 Bigger water = bigger consequences
👉 Your boat, skill level, and ego should all agree here
💧 Water
“How cold, how fast, and how deep is it… really?”
👉 Cold water shock is real—and immediate
👉 Current and depth change everything
👉 Water doesn’t care if you “only plan to swim for a second”
Quick Reality Check
👉 Most bad days on the river start with ignoring one of these.
River Rapid Difficulty: (What You’re Getting Into)
Class I – Easy
Fast water with small waves. Few, obvious obstacles.
👉 Very low risk. Easy self-rescue.
Class II – Novice
Clear channels, small waves, occasional maneuvering.
👉 Swims are usually harmless. Little help needed. (II+ = slightly harder)
Class III – Intermediate
Moderate, irregular waves. Requires good boat control and quick moves.
👉 Scouting recommended if unsure. Swimming is usually safe but may require help. (III- / III+)
Class IV – Advanced
Powerful, turbulent rapids with precise maneuvers and possible “must-make” moves.
👉 Scouting often needed. Higher injury risk. Self-rescue is difficult. Strong roll recommended. (IV- / IV+)
Class V – Expert
Long, violent, technical rapids with serious consequences. Limited recovery zones.
👉 Scouting recommended. Swimming is dangerous. Rescue is difficult.
👉 Rated 5.0, 5.1, 5.2… (each step is a major increase)
Class VI – Extreme
Rarely run. Extremely dangerous and unpredictable. Rescue may be impossible.
👉 Only for expert teams under ideal conditions.
Quick Reality
👉 River level changes everything. A class can feel very different day to day.