Are you planning to roll on the Lower Kern this summer? If you are, then it’s time for you to act quickly, the rafting trips are expected to end by Aug 20. Usually the rafting season runs till the end of September but this year the amount of water is little below the normal so the rafting trips will not run till September.
Whitewater rafting is a popular pastime throughout the Kern River. There are many companies that offer rafting trips. The majority of trips along the river range between Class III and Class V rapids. Also, there are some Class II rapids that provide exciting adventures for younger and inexperienced rafters. Choose the class level you are comfortable with.
Lickety Split is the easiest of the trips. This takes rafters through Class II-III rapids just upriver from Kernville and offers beautiful views of the river banks and surrounding forests. The Pictor is another Class II-III trip which runs south of Lake Isabella Dam and offers stunning views of Kern River Canyon in all of its glory. The Sampler is a Class III-IV run on the Upper Kern, a half-day trip that offers an idea of what rafting the river is like.
Keep in mind your level of experience and how much time you have for rafting. There are a number of companies that provide equipment and guides for trips along the rapids. It’s best to take a guide with you when rafting the river, especially if it’s your first time whitewater rafting. Be safe and enjoy your Lower Kern rafting trip!
Source: Latimes
