The Path of the
Paddle
Progressive Trek Patch
Path of the Paddle Home Stillwater Experience River Experience Whitewater Experience Rafting Experience Ocean Experience Voyageur Experience Scale of River Difficulty Path of the Paddle Forms
The International
Scale of River
Difficulty
defines the different levels of river as:
- Class 1: no rapids, smooth flowing water
- Class 2: some rough water--the line is easy to see and
pursue
- Class 3: whitewater but very safe for larger rafts;
kayakers and canoeists should have good rolling or self-rescue skills
- Class 4: whitewater for experienced paddlers only; the
route through the rapids may require quick maneuvering
- Class 5: whitewater for advanced paddlers; scouting the
rapid may be required, and there may be hidden hazards which require
precise maneuvering
- Class 6: impassable or exploratory; for teams of experts,
taking all safety precautions.
The Path of the Paddle strongly discourages
attempting rapids higher than Class 3 rapids during the Path
experience!
Last update: 11/2/08