Many people go rafting for a day. These people
enjoy spending a day out on the water without packing a lot of gear
with them. They are often seen in groups on one raft or several
rafts. Typically when a group goes out on a day trip they will park
at each end of the river they intend to raft down. This way they
are not stranded at one end of the river with no way to gain access
to their vehicles.
Other people go on longer rafting trips. These rafting trips can
range from overnight up to a couple weeks. The length of time a
rafting trip can be is determined on how long the individual group
wants to be on the water. It is also determined by local
ordinances. Many areas will allow a group to raft down the same
river for up to two weeks. Other places will have a smaller maximum
amount of days they allow.
When taking a rafting trip that will last several days the group
will need to pack accordingly. They must make sure they have enough
food and fresh water, for each person, for each day of the trip.
Extra clothes, tents, flashlights, and other items will also need
to be packed for the trip. These items will all need to be placed
in water resistant materials, like large plastic zip bags, to
protect again water damage.
Guided rafting trips are a great idea for people who are
inexperienced or checking out a section of a particular river for
the first time. Guides will help passengers maintain safety skills
at all times while in the craft. Many will also tell local stories
and point out different view points along the course. Some areas
only allow people to raft down a river with a trained guide. These
areas are typically the most extreme routes through Class Six
rapids.