11 Myths About Whitewater Rafting

What You Think You Know About Whitewater Rafting Trips Debunked

On a river trip, you’re guaranteed to hear tales of legendary boatmen, harrowing high-water years, epic flips and other misadventures. Rivers have a way of inspiring lore carried down through the generations. And while we’ll leave it to you to make up your own mind about ghosts in Blacktail Canyon or Bigfoot sightings on the Rogue, here are 11 myths about rafting trips we’re happy to debunk.

Myth #1: I’m Not Athletic Enough to Enjoy a River Trip

While being a comfortable swimmer is helpful, you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy a whitewater rafting trip. It’s true that you’ll need to meet some basic eligibility criteria, including being able to get in and out of the boats and be an active participant in your own rescue should you end up in the water. But many river trips are designed for a wide range of ages and abilities that vary in difficulty, so you’re sure to find one that suits your fitness level. For those wanting a more laid-back experience, many first-timer friendly rafting trips don’t require intense physical endurance but still offer plenty of excitement, fun, and opportunities to explore.

Myth #2: All Rafting Trips Are Non-stop Whitewater

Sure, there are rivers out there like the Futaleufú in Chile that serve up nearly non-stop heart-pumping rapid action, but not all rafting trips are only for daredevils and adrenaline junkies. Different river classifications ensure that you can choose a trip that matches your desired level of adventure, whether you’re looking for a tranquil float with gentle rapids or something with a little more action. Class II rivers like the San Juan River are perfect for the easygoing traveler whose interests include kicking back on a raft while taking in the breathtaking views and geological marvels of a vibrant desert canyon. If tackling fun Class III whitewater rapids or trying an inflatable kayak interests you, rivers like the Wild & Scenic Rogue provide just that, with ample time for relaxing in camp, wildlife viewing, and searching for Bigfoot.

Myth #3: All River Guides Are Cast From the Same Mold

If you hear the term “river guide” and immediately picture a burly, bearded dude who looks like they could have been a Viking in a past life, you wouldn’t necessarily be wrong; you’ll probably have at least one on your trip. But the fact is, river guides are as diverse as the rivers they navigate. River guides are an eclectic mix of folks from diverse backgrounds who all bring their own unique knowledge and talents to the river. Some have been rowing boats for over 40 years, while others are just starting to get their oars wet. You may overhear them talking about their work as a marine biologist, research scientist, engineer, or EMT. They might be a teacher or farmer, or manage a restaurant in their off-season. One thing you might find that the best river guides have in common—besides an endless passion for rivers and outdoor spaces—is they all have at least one good geology joke. Because river guides are the schist.

Myth #4: I’ll Be Stuck on a Raft All Day

While you may spend around six hours on the raft each day, your time traveling downstream will also include plenty of breaks to hop off for side hikes, swimming, and exploring cultural sites along the way. Perhaps you’ll pull over and hike to a waterfall or take advantage of a jump rock, offering a cooling reprieve from the heat of the day. Maybe you’ll visit a historic homestead or ancient Native American rock art and learn all about the fascinating past of the river corridor. You might soak in a hot spring, trek to a unique geological formation, or explore a side canyon. Whatever explorations await you on your river journey, you’re sure to be far from bored on a boat. You can also opt for a trip that offers a variety of boat options like inflatable kayaks or stand up paddleboards that you can paddle on your own.

Myth #5: I’ll Be Roughing It

One of the most surprising things for first-time rafters and non-campers is how luxurious life on the river can be. You might be camping in a remote canyon, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Rafts can carry an astonishing amount of gear, which means you’ll have access to roomy tents, plush sleeping pads, cozy bedding, and pillows for a comfortable night’s rest. While you get yourself settled in camp, the guides will do all the heavy lifting setting up a full kitchen, camp chairs, and of course, the groover. The groover is a portable toilet, complete with a seat, which will be set up in a secluded and picturesque location so you can enjoy incredible views while you do your number twos. With multiple foot-operated hand washing stations available at lunch and in camp, and endless “river bath” opportunities, staying clean on a river trip also isn’t an issue.

Myth #6: I Won’t Like the Food on a Rafting Trip

If you think you’ll be eating nothing but canned food or backpacker meals on your river trip, you’re in for a treat. Because rafts can carry an entire kitchen’s worth of gear ideal for making delicious meals, don’t be surprised when guides whip up dishes like filet mignon with rosemary potatoes, wild Alaskan salmon with grilled asparagus, or chicken tikka masala with warm naan bread. Decadent desserts like triple chocolate brownies and pineapple upside-down cake are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and are often baked fresh in a Dutch oven right on the river. You’ll be equally as impressed with the hearty breakfasts cooked up each morning to fuel your day, and with dishes like French toast and eggs Benedict on the menu, who says you can’t get your brunch on while in the backcountry? With advanced notice, outfitters can also cater to many dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring that nobody goes hungry while on their epic adventure.

Myth #7: There’s Nothing to Do Once the Sun Goes Down

Au contraire, my friend, just because the sun has disappeared behind the canyon walls and the stars have come out to play doesn’t mean that the fun has to end. Some of the most magical moments on a river trip can happen after the sun sets. River guides are often skilled musicians and storytellers, so an impromptu jam session around the campfire or the reading of a river poem are common occurrences. They may even break out a blacklight and lead a scorpion walk, offering a unique opportunity to witness these biofluorescent creatures in their natural habitat. And let’s not forget about the stars themselves; often traveling through International Dark Sky Places, river trips provide some of the most incredible stargazing opportunities you’ve ever experienced.  

Myth #8: Rafting Is Only a Summer Activity

Good news, everyone! Whitewater rafting isn’t just for summer! Spring and fall rafting trips have many advantages that you don’t get in the summer months, and with the right gear, you can enjoy rafting year-round. Shoulder season trips provide cooler temperatures, creating prime conditions for hiking, cozy nights snuggled up in a sleeping bag under the stars, and dazzling wildflowers or vibrant foliage. Spring rafting trips often mean higher water levels with bigger rapids on wild and free rivers like the Yampa River, Owyhee River, and the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon. Fall trips provide mellower flows for a more laid-back experience after the summer crowds have dispersed, cooler temps for exploring, and can offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Not to mention, nothing beats sipping on a hot cup of cowboy coffee on a crisp October morning as you watch daylight break over the canyon walls in Grand Canyon National Park. 

Myth #9: A River Trip Is No Place for Kids

While it may be easy to think of whitewater rafting as a “big kids only” sport, it’s no secret that kids of all ages thrive in wild places. Parents who take their kids on the river know how incredible it is to watch their children learn to paddle an inflatable kayak, make new friends, and come out of their shells and grow in ways they’ve never seen before. Some kiddos even decide they want to be a river guide when they grow up after experiencing their first whitewater rafting adventure. (Don’t worry, they’ll probably grow out of it before they’re old enough…probably.) A family river trip is a great way to unplug, bond, and create lifelong memories in some of the most beautiful wilderness areas on the planet. And with trips on the Lower Klamath River and the Green River through Flaming Gorge for little river runners as young as four, there’s surely an unforgettable adventure out there perfect for the entire family.

Myth #10: I Can’t Be Offline for That Long

One of the greatest joys of a river trip is getting the opportunity to undergo a digital detox. With no cell service or internet, you’re free to fully immerse yourself in your journey down the river. Many people find that being disconnected from electronics allows them to reconnect with nature and the people around them in a way they never thought possible. Even teenagers have said how awesome it was to be away from their social media, texts, and video games for a few days. Yup, you read that right…teenagers said that. So while you may bring your phone along to capture beautiful moments on camera, you won’t be bombarded with notifications, work emails, and that group chat that never seems to quiet down. Who knows? You may even find yourself leaving your phone on airplane mode long after you’ve come back to civilization.

Myth #11: All River Trips are the Same

From the crystal-clear waters and alpine forests of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River to the red rock canyons of the Colorado River, the diversity of river corridors across the country offers travelers a multitude of unique experiences. Craving big rapid action set amongst the breathtaking beauty of the Yosemite region in California? A Tuolumne River Rafting trip will satisfy. Perhaps you’re looking for a family-friendly river with epic views of vibrant soaring cliffs sprinkled with deep green junipers and pinyon pines. If that’s the case, head on out to Dinosaur National Monument for Green River rafting through the stunning Gates of Lodore. More than diverse scenery, each river brings intrinsically unique historical and cultural sites, side canyons, waterfalls, flora and fauna, and more. If you’ve seen one river, you’ve only just scratched the surface of possibilities.

An earlier version of this post written by Rose McMackin was published in July 2014 and has since been updated.