I'm going whitewater rafting for the first time this weekend...anything helpful i should know?

Question

i can't wait, but i have no idea what to expect.

i know its a category 3-4 river, and its along the michigan/wisconsin border, but thats about it...

any hints/tips to make it an enjoyable trip?

Answer 1

I'm probably too late, but my advice is pretty basic, and you'll hear it again when you go....wear your life jacket!!!  That's the first rule and the most important!  Next...have fun, and trust your guide (professional or private) and do what he/she says.  Other than that, don't have any specific expectations...nothing is ever what you think it is, but rafting is ALWAYS a great time.  Anyway, be safe and have fun!!  Remember, in the end, all things come together...and a river runs through it.

Answer 2

Wear a wetsuit, and invest in a waterproof kodak camera. You'll be glad you did.

Answer 3

Hold on for dear life!

Answer 4

I've been on a couple of a whitewater rafting trips in West Virginia.   I am in no way an expert, but I can suggest a few things...

1) If you have a life jacket you like, you might consider bringing it; the rental are normally pretty crummy.

2) You might want to consider gloves.

3) You say it is a cat. 3-4 river, this means your trip will have some rapids that are rated in the 3 to 4 range; but their will probably be a lot of smaller rapids in between.   This is on a 1-5 scale with 1 being the easiest and 5 the toughest.  

4) Be ready to get wet; with a 3-4 river you will have plenty of rapids that will splash you and may knock you out of the raft; don't worry this is all part of the fun.

5) Have fun, whitewater rafting is one of the best ways to get out and see nature and have some extreme fun at the same time.

For a lot more detailed information try the attached links.

Hope this was a little helpful and hope you have a great time.