White Water Rafting Levels / Classes Explained – A Visual Guide
Rivers and whitewater rapids are rated using the International Scale of River Difficulty, which runs from Class 1 (easy) to Class 6 (extreme and un-runnable). The system is based on two main factors: the number of obstacles in the river and how difficult it is to maneuver around them.
In this video and guide, we explain the different white water rafting levels and what you can expect from each on your river trip – from calm Class 1-2 floats to advanced Class 5 challenges.
Class 1 Rapids
- Gentle downstream current with small riffles or tiny waves
- Calm river floating, with chances to swim and play
- Perfect for relaxed paddling and easy introduction to rafting
- No training required
Class 2 Rapids
- Moving current with small to medium splashy waves
- Easy-to-miss obstacles, simple to navigate
- Great for families with young children (ages 5–7) and tentative adults
- Often enjoyed by inner-tubers and casual float trips
- Some training is helpful, but may not be necessary
Featured Class 1-2 river trip: Tom Sawyer Float Trip (South Fork Easy Section)
Class 3 Rapids
- Faster currents with medium to large waves, rocks, and obstacles
- Requires basic paddling maneuvers and moves
- Great introduction to guided whitewater rafting trips for a wide range of people
- Fun and approachable for families, groups, and first-timers
- Swimming ability recommended but not required
Featured Class 3 rafting trip: South Fork American River
Raft the American River!
This could be you! Paddle through fun, splashy rapids on the South Fork or take on the exciting wilderness of the Middle Fork. With options for first-timers and thrill-seekers alike, there’s an American River rafting trip for everyone!
Class 4 Rapids
- Swift moving and more powerful water with large, splashy waves
- May include narrow passages, small ledges, or big boulders to navigate around
- Requires more precise paddling and teamwork than Class 3
- A trained guide is essential to help make the moves
- Swimming ability required
Featured Class 4 rafting trip: Tuolumne River
Class 5 Rapids
- Powerful, fast-moving currents and at times long rapids
- Rapids may include waves, holes, constricted passages, ledges, waterfalls, and large boulders
- Knowledge of the rapid’s characteristics is crucial, and maneuvers can be very challenging
- Best suited for experienced, adventurous rafters who love whitewater
- Ability to actively swim in fast-moving water required
- Guide with extensive training is essential
Featured Class 5 rafting trip: Cherry Creek (Upper Tuolumne)
Raft near Yosemite!
This could be you! Experience the best whitewater just outside Yosemite. Chase waves on the springtime favorite Merced River, take on the Wild & Scenic Tuolumne River or push your limits on Cherry Creek.
Class 6 Rapids
- Considered extreme and un-runnable
- Defined by dangerous water features, unpredictable conditions, and very high risk
- Associated with the possibility of severe injury or death
- Not run on commercial rafting trips
- Best avoided
Rafting California Rivers with All-Outdoors
California is the hub of whitewater rafting, offering rivers with rapids from Class 1-2 float trips to Class 5 expert adventures. We run trips on 10 different rivers, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a first time rafter or a seasoned veteran, there is a trip for you.
Keep Reading – There Is More to Explore:
Jack Armstrong
Jack grew up 35 minutes from AO headquarters, and is the grandson of our founder, George. His education includes a film degree and art studies from Biola University, as well as lots of experience breaking camera gear outside. After graduating college, he started an outdoors/action sports focused production company and is largely responsible for our video, photo, and social media content. Jack’s favorite trip is the Cal-Salmon, because of the river’s awe-inspiring beauty and the sweet rapids. When he’s not rafting or playing with cameras, Jack can be found skiing, surfing, visiting art galleries, or eating tacos.
