Whitewater Rafting on the Kern River, California

The Kern River

Snow melt from the peak of Mt. Whitney, the highest mountain in the lower 48 states, provides the source for the mighty Kern River. The river is 32 miles long and runs through Kern River Canyon in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains to the northeast of Bakersfield, California. It is only a few hours drive from Los Angeles.

The Kern River is commonly divided into two sections, centered roughly around the town of Kernville, California. To the north of Kernville is the Upper Kern, to the south below Lake Isabella is the Lower Kern.

Because of its proximity to many of the large urban areas of Southern California, the Kern River has become well known for its whitewater rafting opportunities, primarily the Lower Kern (although the Upper Kern offers whitewater rafting as well).

Whitewater Rafting on the Kern River

Whitewater rafting is a popular pastime throughout the Kern River. The majority of trips along the river range between Class III and Class V rapids (the higher the class, the more dangerous the rapids). Some Class II rapids do exist in the Lower Kern, providing exciting adventures for younger and more inexperienced rafters.

There are a number of companies along the Kern River that provide equipment and guides for trips along the rapids. It is best to take a guide with you when rafting the river, particularly if it is your first time on the river or your first time whitewater rafting. Two of the larger companies offering equipment and tours are Kern River Outfitters and Kern River Tours, Inc.

Choosing a Trip on the Kern River

Because of the size and variety of the river, there are a number of different trips available for rafters. Some are half-day trips, some are whole day trips and some last overnight, taking rafters through different areas of the river.