Skills & Qualities Necessary for Class IV Rafting

As the snow begins to melt and the sun burns hotter and hotter during the afternoons, you know summer is right around the corner. Summers in Colorado offer picturesque scenery, warm weather and never ending slew of amazing outdoor activities. While hiking and camping tend to be the most popular outdoor activity amongst visitors, whitewater rafting is the true crown jewel of the summers. One of the most popular levels for whitewater rafting is Class IV. Class IV is classified by its intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Here is a quick rundown on the skills and qualities necessary for a Class IV rafting trip.

When planning your Numbers or Upper Clear Creek rafting excursion for this summer, you will want to make sure you are both mentally and physically prepared. As far as age and physicality, you will want to make sure you are at least fifteen years old and able to run a mile or swim eight to ten laps in a pool. You also want to be a strong swimmer to be prepared in the situation that you need to self rescue. As far as your mental preparedness, come prepared for action. Your guides will constantly be hollering out instructions which will include paddle sets, high side commands and the river route. Make sure you are following along with your guide so you do not end up in the drink! Class IV can be equal parts rewarding and frustrating if you are not putting 100% of your attention into the river and your guide.

Regardless if you plan on running Gore Canyon or taking a leisure float down the Upper Colorado, make sure you are prepared. For more information on Class IV trips or other whitewater trips offered in Colorado feel free to give us a call at (800) 370-0581. Have a great rest of your winter and begin preparing today!