Before You Go
Tuolumne River Rafting Near Yosemite National Park
Overview
Trip Snapshot
We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the exact dates of your trip.
| MEETING PLACE: | Lucky Buck Cafe 7647 CA-120, Groveland, CA 95321 |
| MEETING TIME: | 8:00 AM |
| RETURN TIME: | Approximately 6:30 PM |
| RIVER RATING: | Class IV with Class V possible during peak flows (suitable for intermediate to advanced rafters) |
| RIVER MILES: | 18 river miles, with 15 named rapids |
| PUT-IN: | Meral’s Pool |
| TAKE-OUT: | Moccasin Point |
| TRIP LENGTH: | 2 days/1 night or 3 days/2 nights |
| BOAT OPTIONS: | Paddle raft, paddle raft with oar assist, oar raft |
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1
- We will meet at the Lucky Buck Cafe. The Lucky Buck is generally open seven days a week from 7:30 am. Your trip leader will meet you at the Lucky Buck at 8 am, directing you to the parking area facing the highway and to the east of the restaurant. Here, we’ll have time to greet your fellow guests and pack your overnight gear into one of our dry bags, which will be transported to the river on our pick-up truck. If you have ordered a sleep kit, it will already be down at the river.
- Lock your car and give your keys to your guide for safekeeping. We will then begin our 3 mile, casually-paced hike along the moderately-steep gravel track from this location to our put-in, where you will meet the rest of your OARS crew.
- Refer to the trip page for a more detailed sample itinerary.
Day 2 or 3 (Depending on trip length)
- After lunch on day 2 or day 3, depending on your trip length. we’ll cross a portion of Don Pedro Reservoir to reach the boat ramp at Moccasin Point. This will add 90 minutes or so to the end of the rafting portion of the trip, as we have to paddle across the top end of the reservoir to reach our motorboat that will aid our passage across the flatwater. At the take-out, an OARS shuttle will be waiting to give you a ride back to your car at the Lucky Buck Cafe. You will usually return around 6:30 pm.
Included in Your Trip Cost
- Skilled professional guide service
- Catered camping: all meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day with limited beer and wine with dinner
- 2-person tents, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers and odd numbers on the booking will have their own tent (no additional cost) and will not need to share. Extra tents can be rented for $30 each.
- 2 waterproof bags to hold your gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25”; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L). Your sleeping bag and pad must fit into 1 bag and your remaining gear will fit into the other bag. If you rent our sleep kit, it will come pre-packed in 1 of the 2 waterproof bags. Your remaining gear, therefore, must fit into 1 bag.
- 1 small, shared waterproof bag per raft for a camera and other small items you’ll want during the day (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L).
- High-quality inflatable rafts and related river equipment including a paddle, helmet, and a personal flotation device which must be worn at all times on the river in compliance with safety regulations
- 12-ounce insulated Klean Kanteen with Café Lid to use for drinks in camp
- Eating utensils, plates, and camp chairs
- Transfers from the Lucky Buck Cafe to the river and back
- Wetsuits and splash jackets
- After June 1st, wetsuits and splash jackets are available by advance request only. (Wetsuits are only necessary on some early-season trips—generally from April to June.) It is important for you to advise the office of your size ahead of time to ensure we pack the proper-sized wetsuit for you. Our wetsuits do not include “wetsuit booties” – please bring your own, or wear wool socks with tennis shoes as a good alternative.
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
- Transportation to our meeting location in the Groveland area
- Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
- River Access Fees
- Sleeping bag & a deluxe 2.5-inch thick air-filled sleeping pad
- Wetsuit booties
- Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
- Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
- Gratuities
Available for Rent
Please indicate on your guest registration form whether you want to rent a sleep kit or if you prefer to bring your own.
- Sleep Kit: Can be rented for $25 per person. Sleep kits consist of a sleeping bag with sheet liner, a deluxe 2.5-inch thick air-filled sleeping pad, pillow, and pillowcase.
- Sleeping Pad Only: The deluxe 2.5-inch thick air-filled pad only may be rented for $15
- Extra Tent: Can be rented for $30 per tent.
Getting Ready
Pre-Trip Checklist
☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: Learn more about the plan we highly recommend and get a quote.
☐ Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.
☐ Reserve flights, shuttles, and lodging: Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable.
☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our Whitewater Orientation video before joining us.
☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.
☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 60 days before your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.
River Runners’ Responsibility Code
1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.
2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.
5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.
6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.
7. No drugs or alcohol prior to, or during, your trip.; alcohol is allowed in moderation in camp on overnight trips.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Wear the OARS-issued and properly–fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when in the boats or swimming. Wear a helmet when required.
10. Your children are your responsibility!
Travel Arrangements
GETTING TO OUR MEETING PLACE NEAR GROVELAND
We’ll meet at the Lucky Buck Cafe, which is approximately 11 miles east of Groveland on Highway 120 (13 miles west of the Hwy 120, Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park). View the meeting place on Google Maps.
Parking
If you’re arriving by car, parking is available at the Lucky Buck Cafe parking lot for the duration of your trip.
OARS cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents.
After Your trip
On the final day of your river adventure, you will be returned via shuttle to The Lucky Buck.. Generally, you’ll arrive back to your car by 6:30 pm.
PRE- AND POST-TRIP ACCOMMODATIONS
We recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging.
(Pre- and post-trip lodging is not included in the trip cost.)
Groveland
Groveland Hotel 800-273-3314
Hotel Charlotte 209-962-6455
East Groveland
Rush Creek Lodge 209-379-2373
Evergreen Lodge 209-379-2606
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Lodging 559-252-4848
Yosemite Nat’l Park Camping 800-436-PARK
Other Camping Options
Groveland Ranger District 209-962-7825
Useful Information
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan, and many allergy-restricted diets without applying a fee. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu. Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our locations, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions. Please let your Adventure Consultant know if you intend to do so.
BEVERAGES/WATER
When in camp, water and lemonade are always available and we do provide a limited supply of sodas, beer, and wine with dinner. You are welcome to bring your own favorite beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, in non-glass containers. If you choose to bring additional drinks or alcoholic beverages, please let us know in advance. For your safety and the safety of others, alcoholic beverages are limited to camp.
We carry sufficient drinking water with us to provide for your needs throughout the trip. Water jugs for refilling personal water bottles are accessible in camp, at lunchtime, and before hikes. In some cases, we will re-supply water jugs with water filtered through a purification system we provide. (No iodine is used in the purification process.)
BATHING
Bathing with soap is discouraged in the Tuolumne River and is definitively not allowed in any of the side streams that feed into the river. If you plan to bring soap, we recommend using a liquid biodegradable soap like Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s, which can be purchased in most stores that have a camping section, or another eco-friendly soap option. Bathing wipes (pre-moistened cleansing towels, preferably biodegradable) are good alternatives to submersion in the river and are especially convenient for spring and fall trips.
WILDFIRES & SMOKE
Fire activity can impact the air quality on our trips, and occasionally wildfires may be present in the immediate vicinity of where we’re traveling. In general, we will not cancel a trip on account of smoky conditions, except in cases of clear danger to life or property.
Learn more about rafting during wildfire season with OARS, including info about some of our protocols and travel protection recommendations.
HIKING
There are a few, shorter explorations to be made on foot from the river. These adventurous excursions generally require scrambling, rock-hopping, walking on uneven terrain, and some sort of water crossing, so please remember to bring appropriate shoes. Often the shoes you wear for rafting will suffice for these side hikes. Since your feet will be getting wet, hiking boots are not the best choice. All hikes (with the exception of the 3 mile walk/hike to the put-in) are optional. If you prefer, you are welcome to stay back and enjoy relaxing in camp. For the hike to the put-in, you are welcome to wear whatever footwear you need to to be comfortable on this hike. These shoes/boots can be sent back to the vehicles if you do not want to wear/store them on the river.
FISHING
The Tuolumne River has the most diverse fishing in the Sierra Nevada, and its headwaters host magnificent, hard-to-reach fisheries that produce trophy rainbow, brown, brook, or golden trout. Stream trout season runs from April through mid-November. If you plan to fish, be sure to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and purchase a fishing license before your trip. Fishing licenses are also widely available at nearby sporting goods stores.
You will need to bring your own gear. Please bring your rod in a hard protective case. We recommend collapsible poles for ease of packing and an assortment of dry flies.
Click on the links below for additional information on the following topics:
- Electronics & Technology
- Cameras
- CPAP Machine
- Power Sources
- Communication
- Portable Toilet
- Smoking, Vaping & Cannabis
- Firearms
Weather
We recommend checking Weather Underground one week before your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast for Groveland, CA. However, it’s always important to be prepared for changing weather, especially during the months of April, May, and early June when California can experience extreme changes in weather.
Average Air & Water Temperatures
| Air (Day)°F | Air (Night)°F | Water Temp °F | |
| April | 60-70 | 35-40 | 44-46 |
| May | 70-75 | 40-44 | 45-48 |
| June | 80-85 | 46-50 | 48-50 |
| July | 88-92 | 52-56 | 50-54 |
| August | 88-92 | 52-56 | 54-58 |
| September | 85-89 | 45-49 | 58-60 |
Packing for Your Trip
For more helpful information about what to wear and how to pack for a river expedition or to view our packing video, please visit our packing essentials page.
We want you to be prepared and comfortable for your trip. Below you’ll find some general tips for how to dress and what to pack and a comprehensive packing checklist. The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.
Clothing
During the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and a synthetic or Merino wool shirt as a base layer. Depending on the weather, temperature, and how wet you’re getting in the rapids, additional layers for sun protection or insulation can be added or subtracted.
In camp—When the weather is warm, a pair of lightweight cotton pants or shorts and a shirt make great camp wear. Anytime the forecast calls for cool evenings and cold nights, a dry set of long underwear is the perfect base layer under long pants and a fleece sweater.
Footwear
During the day—The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes, and won’t come off in swirling currents. A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too. Sport sandals with a heel strap are a good option. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.
In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to the risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand or stepping on a sharp stick. It’s also nice to put on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water. The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes. Flip flops or slip-on sandals are OK for wearing in camp only.
If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first!
Headwear
During the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection. Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.
In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a beanie-style hat to wear in camp. Warm hats are the perfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets.
Hot Weather Trips
During the summer months, conditions on the river may be hot and sunny. These trips require less gear than spring or fall trips, but thoughtful packing is still required. Protection from the sun and heat will be critical to your enjoyment and health while on the river and during side hikes. To protect yourself from the sun’s rays, consider bringing long-sleeved shirts and pants.
A good way to keep cool is with a sarong or long-sleeved cotton shirt. Old collared dress shirts work well. They can be soaked in the water and worn in the raft or carried on a hike for later use. This method of evaporative cooling is very effective. Bandanas are another useful item that can be used in this manner.
Camp-wear should be made of cotton and be loose-fitting. A combination of shorts/skirt and a lightweight top is ideal for staying cool on hot afternoons.
To Avoid Being Cold
Synthetic or Merino wool long underwear is a must-have on river trips. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bag or daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weather, a rain jacket and pants can work better than a wetsuit. This is because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold or when you’re going through whitewater and then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot.
On early-season and high-water trips, wetsuits will be provided for paddlers. After June 1st, wetsuits will be available by advance request only. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.
Something warm for your top and bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your base layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.
Rain Gear
Rain gear protects you from rain, wind, and the splash of the rapids. It is one of the essential items that all guests should have no matter what time of year you are traveling. Look for a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended. Good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists, and ankles. Do not bring a rain poncho, as it cannot be worn under your PFD.
Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Lightweight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are also a must.
BUGS & MOSQUITOES
Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent. Long-sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times. Often yellow jackets and wasps can be a nuisance. We recommend a eucalyptus and lemongrass repellent. If you are allergic, please bring two epi-pens.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend you bring some sandwich-size zip-close bags. These bags can store products during the day while you are on the river. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of in the trash at lunch or at camp. We provide some menstrual products on most trips for emergencies.
Sleeping Gear
You can either bring your own sleeping bag and pad, or you can rent our sleep kit. If you are bringing your own bag for the trip, keep in mind that a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20°F (the normal range for an all-around, “three-season” bag) is recommended for early and late season trips.
Packing List
Equipment and Personal Items
☐ Sleeping bag, pad, sheet liner, and small pillow. Sleep kits including these items may be rented for $25.
☐ Two 1-liter water bottles: durable and reusable, insulated bottles recommended for trips in hot climates to prevent water from becoming too hot to drink
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing extra batteries)
☐ Polarized sunglasses with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Quick-drying towel (such as those made by Rumpl)
☐ Toiletries, including soap and shampoo (preferably biodegradable)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first-aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities
Footwear
☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco®); “Aqua socks” strongly discouraged
☐ Athletic Shoes or light hikers: for hikes or in camp (flip-flops and slip-on sandals are OK in camp)
☐ Socks: synthetic or wool for the river and hiking; cotton is ok for camp
Clothing
☐ Long-sleeved shirts: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Ball cap or visor with securing strap – flexible enough to wear underneath your helmet
☐ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant). A hooded jacket with secure closures is recommended.
☐ Swimwear: tankinis and board shorts are a great option
☐ Underwear
☐ Shorts: 1-2 pair
☐ T-shirts/tops: 1-2
☐ Synthetic or merino wool long underwear: 1 set top & bottom (light-, mid-, or expedition-weight depending on the time of year, weather, location)
☐ Jacket: fleece or down/synthetic fill puffy (depending on the time of year, weather, and location)
☐ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for the season. Cotton is recommended for hot weather trips. Some guests may prefer an athletic skirt or dress.
Optional Items
☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Lightweight, packable blanket (such as those made by Rumpl)
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc.
☐ Small day pack, waist pack, or hydration pack for side hikes
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable cleansing towels
☐ Small bags: stuff sacks, zip-close, or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Large empty bag: laundry bag, pillow case, or similar for putting clothes into after your trip
☐ Earplugs
☐ Binoculars
☐ Splash jacket and pants
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up urination device
Packing Your Gear
On the morning of day one, each person will be given two large waterproof bags (approximate sealed size: 25” tall x 13” diameter; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L). One bag will be for your clothing and personal items. The second bag will be for your sleeping gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, sheet, and pillow). These two bags will essentially be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents are stowed separately. Please note: If you rent a sleep kit from us, it will come pre-packed in one of the two waterproof bags. This pre-packed bag will already be loaded onto a raft and will not be available to you at the time you are issued your second waterproof bag.
We also provide one small, shared waterproof bag per raft for day use where you can keep items such as rain gear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L). All bags are cylindrical in shape and pack from the top. Please pack light; river attire is very casual―comfort, convenience, and boat space take precedence over style. At the end of the trip, you will return to La Casa Loma with your packed waterproof bags. Here, you will be able to unpack your gear for your return trip home.
Extra Luggage
If you have extra luggage, it should be locked in your car or stored at your hotel.
Valuables
We recommend you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses, and cell phones, we recommend leaving them in your car.
HELPFUL LINKS
- Visit our Trip Resources page for more info on the use of drones, electronics, cannabis, CPAP Machines, firearms, and more.
- Find all the gear you need for your trip online in the OARStore and 15% of your purchase helps provide under-resourced youth with outdoor adventure experiences.
- Recommended Reading: California’s Sierra Nevada & Beyond
Reminders
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
There are several professional companies taking photos of each raft at some of the Tuolumne’s larger rapids, which provide great action shots. These companies are not affiliated with OARS. You will need to contact them separately to view and purchase pictures after your trip. We recommend:
- Picture This…Rapid Shooter – to view and purchase photos after your trip click here or visit their site and click on the OARS logo. If you do not see your trip photos, you can request that the photos from your trip be posted. Picture requests can be sent to: [email protected].
GRATUITIES
Tipping is appreciated by our staff. If you are wondering how much to tip, you may consider that we operate in a service industry with a host of behind-the-scenes contributors in addition to the guides on your trip. In general, we suggest a gratuity based on 10 – 15% of the trip cost. It is customary on OARS trips for gratuities to be given to the Trip Leader, in the form of cash or a personal check, who will then distribute appropriately amongst all the guides and support staff.
SOMETHING VOLUNTARY
In reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to Tuolumne River Trust, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to protecting the Tuolumne River through education, restoration projects, and the advocacy for a healthy watershed. One hundred percent of these funds go directly to these environmental actions, and your contribution is tax-deductible. This donation is voluntary and may be removed from your invoice if you choose not to participate. Please notify our office to delete the donation from your balance.
Terms & Conditions
Reservations and Payments
A $250/person deposit is required at the time of booking with final payment due 60 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 50 days before the departure date will be canceled.
Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Prices are in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior the final payment due date.
Cancellations and Refunds
Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.
We regret that we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.
| DATE OF CANCELLATION | CANCELLATION FEE |
| 180 or more days before your trip | $25/person |
| 179 – 90 days before your trip | $50/person |
| 89 – 60 days before your trip | $100/person. The remainder of your payment can be transferred to another trip within the same year (or to a credit account for the following year). No refund. |
| 59 days or less before your trip | Full fare |
Please note that different deposit/cancellation policies may apply for charter groups. Refer to the group organizer’s confirmation email for details.
Canceled Trips
OARS reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. In such instances, we will inform you at least 30 days prior to departure. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed.
If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers; however, we cannot guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.
Transfers
If you need to move your reservation to a different trip during the same season, or to a credit account for the following year, there is a $25/person fee up until 90 days before departure for a one-time transfer of your payment. Transfer requests made 89 days or less before departure will be treated like a cancellation according to the schedule above.
Medical
Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.
Travel Protection
Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan. A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Learn more about the plan we recommend.
Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.
Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote.
Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.
Liability Release / Assumption of Risk
Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release / assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.
Responsibility – An Important Notice
O.A.R.S. West, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss, or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and wellbeing of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests – 6 for gourmet, craft beer, and wine trips), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories, and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept guests weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced in accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time.
OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected. To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees. We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others. Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice. Upon advancement of deposit, the depositor agrees to be bound by the above-recited terms and conditions. OARS is an equal opportunity provider.