Rapids that are at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated Class II+. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe.

Jan 5, 2026 · In this video and guide, we explain the different white water rafting levels and what you can expect from each on your river trip – from calm Class 1-2 floats to advanced Class 5 …

Mar 28, 2024 · Class V rapids, also known as the “Expert” class of rapids, will be extremely long, violent, and feature much more obstructions and demanding routes. Any drops you encounter …

Jul 25, 2025 · What’s the difference between Class 4 and Class 5 rapids? Class IV rapids are intense but predictable with clear lines, while Class V features violent, complex water …

Jun 15, 2011 · Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight …

Jul 24, 2025 · Class V rapids are expert-only whitewater featuring extremely long, violent rapids with huge waves, holes, and complex routes. Swimming is dangerous and scouting is mandatory.

The links below lead to the 3 parts of a list of examples of commonly run rapids that fit each of the classifications. Rapids of a difficulty similar to a rapids on this list are rated the same.

Rivers in the Class V group contain extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to added risk. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or …

Class V is the upper limit of what is possible in a commercial raft. High adventure class V rafting can be found on the Wind River and the West Fork of the Hood River.

The rating system used in the Grand Canyon, which rates rapids 1 to 10, pre-dates the modern Class I-VI system of rating rapids. A “10” in the Grand Canyon is comparable to a Class V …