Whitewater Rafting Ratings & Classification | AVA Rafting
Trip Recommender

Find Your Perfect Adventure

DIFFICULTY LEVELS AND RATINGS ON WHITEWATER RAFTING TRIPS

FAQ

SCROLL

01
01
DIFFICULTY LEVELS AND RATINGS ON WHITEWATER RAFTING TRIPS

 HOW DO I FIND THE RIGHT TRIP

Have you recently just started looking into booking a whitewater rafting trip? Are you now wondering what the different classifications mean?

Class defines the size the rapids on the trip are according to an objective white water standard. At AVA we want to make sure that when booking a trip you are fully informed about the type of whitewater that will be on your trip. Not only do we consider your safety at every moment, but we also want you to have the most fun on your trip.

Please also be aware this classification scale is a widely-used and objective. Rivers are a natural element and can change constantly. We do always reserve the right to change minimum age, fitness and weight requirements depending on water flows. Also, a section of river can be Class III when the water is low, and at higher water levels, it can bump up to Class IV.

Whitewater river rafting is not like a fully controlled Disneyworld ride. We work with natural elements that change every day. But this is also why we stress safety, training and experience every day with our guides. Our guides average 8 years of experience, which is one of the highest in this industry.

MEANINGS OF RIVER CLASSIFICATION:

Class I: No waves or obstacles. Like sitting in your bathtub.
Class II: Easy. Rapids with regular waves and wide channels.
Class III: (AVA minimum age 6-7 years) Moderately difficult. Irregular waves and narrow channels. This is what we consider to be family-level whitewater rafting.
Class IV: (Minimum ages may vary) Difficult. Complex channels with obstacles to be avoided. Precise maneuvering.
Class V: (Minimum ages may vary) Extremely difficult. Long rapids following each other consecutively.
Class VI: Considered unrunnable commercially

02
02
PHYSICAL LEVELS ON EACH TRIP

We think the best way to determine the trip for you is based on physical level. You do not need to have whitewater rafting experience to go on a class V trip, but you do need to have the ability to paddle long and hard all the while listening to your guide. Each of our trips are graded with a physical levels from 1-6. Please find what to expect on each physical level below:

 

Physical Level 1

Leisurely trips that do not require much or any physical exertion. Level 1 trips are great for all ages, and those looking for a relaxing experience in Colorado. Guests do not need to be physically fit in order to go on these trips.

Physical Level 2

Mild trips that require some but very little physical exertion. Level 2 trips are great for most ages, but some age minimums can apply to different trips. Guests do not need to be physically fit in order to go on these trips.

Physical Level 3

Moderate trips that will require some physical exertion. Level 3 trips typically have age minimums ranging from 5 years old to 10 years old, but they are subject to change. Guests do not need to be physically fit in order to go on these trips.

Physical Level 4

Exciting trips that will require physical exertion. Level 4 trips typically have age minimums ranging from 7 years old to 12 years old, but are subject to change. Guests should be a little active in order to go on these trips.

Physical Level 5

Wild trips that will require physical exertion though out the trips. Level 5 trips typically have age minimums ranging from 12 years old to 15 years old but are subject to change. Guests should be moderately active in order to go on this trip.

Physical Level 6

Intense trips that will be physically demanding through out the trips. Level 5 trips have an age minimum of 15 years old, and are strictly enforced. Guests should be physically active before going on a level 6 trip.

03
03
MORE INFORMATION

Here is another way to look at our trips:

*Beginner: All Ages and abilities – Level 1 trips
*Intermediate: All abilities & ages 6 and up – Level 2 and 3 trips
*Advanced: Active lifestyles – Level 4 trips
*Advanced +: Active and Adventurous – Level 5 and 6 trips

If at any time you are confused when booking a trip please call one of our knowledgeable staff at 800-370-0581 and they will be sure to put you on the right track to be sure that you are going to go on your dream adventure.