The 'AO Rafting University' Category Archive


Day in the life of a river guide

[VIDEO] Day in the Life of a River Guide

There is a lot more to a raft guide’s job than taking folks down the river every day. Come along as we follow seasoned raft guide Mathilda on a trip down the South Fork of the American River.

  Published August 2nd, 2023

South Fork American Rafting

Can I Go Rafting if I Can’t Swim?

When it comes to whitewater rafting, one common question that arises often is whether swimming skills are a prerequisite. Let’s look into why and under what conditions even non-swimmers can participate in this exhilarating water sport.

  Published July 31st, 2023

[VIDEO] White Water Rafting Levels / Classes Explained

The river classification system is based on an International Scale of River Difficulty and ranges from Class 1 to Class 6 rapids. Let’s look at the different white water rafting levels!

  Published June 19th, 2023

River guide commands for whitewater rafting

[VIDEO] Whitewater Rafting Paddle Commands

Get educated about the most common whitewater rafting paddle commands you can expect to hear on your next river trip, and find out how to properly execute them in this helpful video.

  Published May 22nd, 2023

Spring Season Rafting at Higher River Flows

Learn about the additional considerations that need to be taken into account when planning a rafting trip during the spring “high flows” period in a year with a well above average snowpack.

  Published April 26th, 2023

Benefits of Wearing a Wetsuit for Rafting

Whitewater rafting is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of a river canyon. But it’s only fun when you are comfortable and not concerned about getting too cold. Let’s talk about wetsuits!

  Published April 24th, 2023

Predicting California River Flows for Rafting

All rivers are connected to rain and/or snow. If you want to know what California rivers will be doing in the spring, summer, and fall, you need to know what happened in the Sierra during the “wet season”.

  Published February 1st, 2023

The Reconnecting Power of Rafting and Rivers

[VIDEO] The Reconnecting Power of Rafting and Rivers

“As a mother and daughter activity…you have fun and excitement, and it’s healthy and good for your heart and soul…we plan to do it every year together!”

  Published June 17th, 2022

Rafting is good for the family

California Rafting Trips Are Good for the Family

Without life’s usual distractions, the river is the perfect place for people to reconnect with one another. This is especially true with families. California offers many rafting opportunities for adventurers of all levels and ages!

  Published June 17th, 2022

Tom Sawyer Float Trips on the South Fork American River

[VIDEO] Tom Sawyer Float: The Perfect River Trip for Younger Kids

The Easy Section of the South Fork of the American River is the ideal river trip for families with kids aged 5 to 7 years old. The gentle Class I-II rapids and the relaxing pools in between are fun for all.

  Published June 14th, 2022
 
 

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