Find Your Perfect Rafting Trip
Find Your Perfect Rafting Adventure
Answer a few quick questions to get personalized trip recommendations
Do you prefer a half-day trip or a full-day trip?
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Include the age of the youngest person in your group
What's your experience level with rafting?
What level of adventure are you looking for?
Class 3 or Class 4 rapids?
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Compare All Kern River Rafting Trips
| Trip Name | Class | Duration | Miles | Ideal For | Min Age | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lickety Split | II–III | 1.5–2.5 hrs | 2–4 | Families, Beginners | 5 | Apr–Jul |
| Jungle Run | II–III | 4 hrs | 9 | Families | 9 | Apr–Sep |
| Big Five | III–IV | 3–4 hrs | 5 | Beginners | 12 | Jun–Aug |
| Thunder Run | IV–V | 6–7 hrs | Varies | Advanced | 16 | May–Jul |
| Sierra Escape | III–IV | 2 days | 20 | Couples, Friends | 12 | May–Sep |
Choose the Perfect Adventure!
Family Rafting Adventures
Planning a
family rafting trip that your kids will love and that you
can feel great about? These trips were designed with families in mind. From certified guides to age-appropriate rapids and convenient lodging nearby, you’ll find the perfect mix of fun and peace of mind. For more tips read our
guide to river rafting with kids. Here are some recommended trips for families.
Lickety Split – Upper Kern
This is our easiest and most playful rafting trip, tailored to families with younger kids (must weigh at least 50 lbs). With fun, splashy Class II–III rapids, it’s thrilling without being intimidating. The shorter duration means even little ones stay engaged and excited throughout.
- Class: II–III
- Distance: 2–4 miles
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hrs
- Ages: 5+ (50 lbs minimum)
- Best For: Families with young kids or first-time rafters
- Trip Highlights: Short, playful rapids that keep everyone engaged
Lower Kern “Jungle Run”
A half-day journey that strikes the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. With mild Class III rapids and beautiful river canyon views, this guided experience keeps the adrenaline light and the enjoyment high. Great for families with older kids ready for a bit more excitement.
- Class: II–III
- Distance: 8.5–9 miles
- Duration: 4 hrs
- Ages: 9+
- Best For: Families with older kids or casual adventurers
- Trip Highlights:
Scenic canyon float with mild, splashy rapids
Beginner Rafting Adventures
If this is your first time rafting, you’re in the right place. These trips are designed to ease you into the whitewater world—no experience needed. You’ll get expert guidance, the right gear, and plenty of support from start to finish. Just show up ready to have fun (and maybe get a little wet).
Lower Kern “Big Five”
This is our top pick for confident beginners eager to experience real rapids. You'll navigate five exciting rapids with calming recovery pools in between for a balanced introduction to Kern River rafting.
- Class: III–IV
- Distance: 5 miles
- Duration: 3–4 hrs
- Ages: 12+
- Best For: Beginners ready for more action
- Trip Highlights: Five signature rapids with calm pools between
Upper Kern “Dazzler”
For adventurous first-timers who want to level up, the “Dazzler” adds extra spice. It's still beginner-friendly, but you'll encounter stronger rapids that create thrilling stories.
- Class: III–IV
- Distance: 5–6 miles
- Duration: 4 hrs
- Ages: 12+
- Best For: Adventurous first-timers and active groups
- Trip Highlights: A step up in thrills with lively Class III–IV waves
What to Bring as a Beginner
Dry-Off Essentials
Quick-drying clothes (no cotton)
Water Shoes
Secure footwear (like water shoes or old sneakers)
Hydration
Reusable water bottle
Sun Protection
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses with a strap
Beginner FAQs
Will I fall out of the raft?
It’s very rare on beginner-friendly trips, and our guides are trained to keep everyone safe. We also cover all safety protocols before launch.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No, but basic water comfort helps. Everyone wears a certified life jacket, and we’ve got you covered with full safety instructions.
Can I bring my phone or camera?
We recommend leaving valuables behind or using waterproof protection. Some trips include professional photos—ask us about it when booking!
Advanced Rafting for Experienced Rafters
For those who crave the rush of raw nature, steep drops, and thundering rapids—these trips deliver. Designed for experienced rafters and athletic adventurers, these runs are intense, technical, and require full focus. Whether you’re checking off a bucket list or chasing your next whitewater high, this is where the real action lives.
Upper Kern “Thunder Run”
Get ready for a non-stop thrill ride through some of the gnarliest rapids on the Kern. Thunder Run throws everything at you—big waves, steep chutes, and adrenaline-surging drops. Prior rafting experience is a must, and a Class V swim test ensures you’re ready to take it on.
- Class: IV–V
- Distance: Varies
- Duration: 6–7 hrs
- Ages: 16+
- Best For: Experienced rafters seeking maximum adrenaline
- Trip Highlights: Continuous Class IV–V rapids, peak intensity run
Forks of the Kern (2–3 Days)
Experience California's premier whitewater adventure on a self-supported expedition through the Wild & Scenic Kern River canyon. Enjoy thrilling rapids, beautiful scenery, and a deep sense of achievement while camping by the river and tackling Class V rapids with your crew.
- Class: V
- Distance: 15+ miles
- Duration: Multi-day
- Ages: 16+
- Best For: Veteran rafters and bucket-list adventurers
- Trip Highlights: Remote expedition with big rapids and riverside camping
For Weekend Warriors, Looking For Rafting Trips!
You work hard all week—now it’s time to play even harder. These fast-paced Kern River adventures are perfect for professionals, friend groups, and action-lovers who want maximum whitewater fun without taking extra days off. Designed to pack a punch in just a few hours or one epic day, they’re the go-to for weekend getaways that leave you feeling fully alive.
Upper Kern “Snap, Crackle, Pop”
A classic early-season ride with endless rapids and energy. This full-day experience perfectly blends speed, scenery, and splash. If you have one day to feel the river’s power—choose this!
- Class: III–IV
- Distance: 8–10 miles
- Duration: 6–7 hrs
- Ages: 12+
- Best For: Rafters who want a full-day Kern adventure
- Trip Highlights: Nonstop rapids paired with riverside lunch
Lower Kern “Bigwater Run”
A mid-season favorite for good reason, Bigwater offers big drops, warm sun, and Kern River excitement. It features momentum-building rapids and a hearty meal to keep your energy up.
- Class: III–IV
- Distance: 12 miles
- Duration: 6–7 hrs
- Ages: 12+
- Best For: Groups looking for a social, full-day trip
- Trip Highlights: Big, momentum-building rapids in warm canyon sun
Bonus Half-Day Option: Lickety Split – Upper Kern
Need a quick fix or warm-up before your run? Lickety Split offers a fast, flexible splash session—ideal for mixed-experience groups or those arriving late Friday for a Saturday thrill.
- Class: II–III
- Distance: 2–4 miles
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hrs
- Ages: 5+ (50 lbs minimum)
- Best For: A quick splash session or late arrivals
- Trip Highlights: Flexible schedule with fun, family-friendly rapids
Group Rafting and Team Building
Coming Soon: Team Rafting
We’re currently developing a full-service offering dedicated to corporate and private group experiences. Whether you’re aiming to boost morale, strengthen bonds, or reward your team with an unforgettable outing—our group trips on the Kern River are the perfect fit.
Stay tuned for our full page launching soon
Contact us today to plan your custom group package!
Coming Soon: Scout Troop Rafting
Our upcoming scout programs will provide a safe, guided way for youth to explore the river, bond as a team, and grow their confidence in nature. Whether you’re planning a summer camp highlight or a badge-focused outing, this will be a great fit for troops looking for something different.
Stay tuned for our full page launching soon
Want to be the first to know? Contact us to join our priority list and get updates when booking opens.
Solo Escapes or Couple Rafting Trips
Sometimes the best journeys are the ones you take to reconnect—with nature, with others, or with yourself. These overnight rafting adventures are perfect for solo travelers seeking clarity, couples craving reconnection, or anyone who wants to slow down and be fully present. You’ll paddle scenic stretches of river by day and unwind under the stars by night—no distractions, no deadlines, just peace and perspective.
Lower Kern “Sierra Escape”
Class III–IV | 20 miles | Overnight | Ages 12+
This overnight trip combines excitement and relaxation. Navigate Class III–IV rapids and enjoy calm stretches. Evenings offer chef-prepared meals, starlit skies, and time to connect with fellow adventurers—perfect for couples or solo explorers seeking more than thrills.
🌿 What’s Included: All meals, camping equipment, expert guides
🧘
Best For: Nature lovers, solo travelers, and couples seeking a meaningful adventure.
“Jungle Run and Camp Fun”
Class II–III | 8–9 miles | Overnight | Ages 9+
A slower overnight trip perfect for those seeking a gentle wilderness adventure. Experience mild rapids, a relaxing evening of camping and dinner under the trees, and wake up to the soothing sound of the river. Great for solo travelers, parent-child pairs, or couples new to outdoor life.
🛌 Relaxed Pace: Less intense rapids, more time to chill and take in the views
📸
Memory Maker:
Great photo ops and quiet moments around the campfire
“Jungle Run and Camp Fun”
Class II–III | 8–9 miles | Overnight | Ages 9+
A slower overnight trip perfect for those seeking a gentle wilderness adventure. Experience mild rapids, a relaxing evening of camping and dinner under the trees, and wake up to the soothing sound of the river. Great for solo travelers, parent-child pairs, or couples new to outdoor life.
🛌 Relaxed Pace: Less intense rapids, more time to chill and take in the views
📸
Memory Maker:
Great photo ops and quiet moments around the campfire
Helpful Resources
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, the resources below will help you prepare with confidence and excitement.
Still Not Sure?
Need help picking the right trip? Call us at 800-400-7238 or email fun@whitewatervoyages.com and we’ll guide you to the perfect adventure.
