How To Plan A Safe, Fun Colorado River Rafting Trip
Paddling along a body of water allows you to experience the water and the surrounding landscape from a new vantage point. Kayaks and canoes are often used for paddling on the open water, but rivers require a different approach. Rafts are the perfect watercraft for tumultuous rivers because they are malleable enough to avoid damage caused by rocks. A river rafting tour will let you experience this sport for yourself. Here are three tips that will help you plan a Colorado River rafting trip:
1. Decide where you want to raft.
The Colorado River is an excellent location for a rafting trip. The Colorado mountains are beautiful, and there's nothing quite like the flora and fauna of Colorado in summer or spring. However, the Colorado River is a large body of water that crosses several states. It's over one thousand miles long, so there are many areas along the river that are suitable for a rafting trip.
When choosing your destination, consider your skill level. Some portions of the Colorado River are filled with mild currents that are ideal for beginners and younger rafters. Other locations feature rapids that will provide a more exciting, adrenaline-spiking experience. Make sure to do some introspection beforehand. Give yourself an accurate assessment of your preferences and skills before making a decision.
2. Make sure you're fit enough for the experience.
You don't need to be a fitness superstar to enjoy a river rafting trip, but you should be in reasonably good shape. River rafting is a vigorous physical experience that will require arm strength and core strength. If you have any medical concerns, get checked out by your doctor before signing up for a river rafting adventure.
3. Inquire about guide certifications.
River rafting is a safe pastime as long as it's done properly. You don't need to be a rafting expert in order to go on a river rafting trip. You just need to have a rafting expert guiding you. Colorado River rafting trips are led by experienced guides. Your guide's job is to help you navigate the river. They will help you steer around tricky areas in the water and ensure everyone gets through the experience safely.
River rafting guides can earn certifications that prove they are proficient in several key skills. When choosing a rafting company for your trip, inquire about their staff training. Choose a company that hires rafting guides with certified wilderness skills, CPR training, and first aid knowledge. These certificates can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your guide will be prepared for any situation that arises.