River Class Explained

Moving water with a few riffles and small waves. Few or no obstructions.

Easy rapids with smaller waves, clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering might be required.

Rapids with high, irregular waves. Narrow passages that often require precise maneuvering.

Long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require complex maneuvering in turbulent water. The course may be hard to determine and scouting is often necessary.

Extremely difficult, long, and very violent rapids with highly congested routes, which should be scouted from shore. Rescue conditions are difficult, and there is a significant hazard to life in the event of a mishap. The upper limit of what is possible in a commercial raft.