Whitewater Classifications

from American Whitewater
(with embellishments by me)

Whitewater rapids are rated based on their difficulty.  Ratings range from one to six and are annotated with Roman numerals.  Class I is the least severe and is aimed at the novice or casual paddler or for nature watchers.  Class VI involves extreme danger and high potential for loss of life!  Additionally, the American Whitewater Organization is in the process of adding a + and - to several of the classifications to further define their difficulty.  For more information on this, and other information, head on over to American Whitewater.

River ratings can vary a good bit as water levels fluctuate.  More water usually means more difficulty.  However, this occasionally means that rocks now covered with water may decrease their associated rapids.  Conversely, lower water may expose rocks that are normally water covered.

It is very typical for guides and outfitters to be quite familiar with both, the rapids classifications and the waters they guide on, and are usually happy to explain either, or both, to you.  Bottom line... if you're new to the sport, use a guide or go with someone familiar with the water you're going to be on.  If you're new to the area, talk to one of the locals. 

Below, you'll find the classifications with the write-ups from American Whitewater.  They'll be marked "AW." Below that, you'll find my take on each of them (marked as "Me").

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Class I Easy
  • AW - Fast moving with riffles and small waves.  Few obstructions, easily avoided.  Low risk.  Easy self-rescue.
  • Me - For first timers, children 4 and older, and those that prefer something a little less stressful.  Go out and enjoy yourself. 
Class II Novice
  • AW - Straightforward rapids; wide, clear channels evident without scouting.  Occasional maneuvering.  Rocks and medium waves easily avoided by trained paddlers.  Swimmers seldom injured.
  • Me - For children age 6 and older or adults expecting an "easier" ride.  However, don't be stupid!  It's now time to take a serious look at safety.  Take your safety equipment, make sure it's serviceable, and then WEAR IT!
Class III Intermediate
  • AW - Rapids with moderate, irregular waves that can swamp open canoes.  Strong eddies and currents.  Complex maneuvers and good control required in tight passages and around ledges.  Large waves or strainers easily avoided.  Scouting advisable for inexperienced parties.  Self-rescue usually easy; group assistance may be required.  Injuries while swimming are rare.
  • Me - For children 10 and up or beginning to low intermediate paddlers that want manageable rapids.  In addition to safety equipment, this is probably the limit for someone that isn't a strong swimmer.  Small children probably shouldn't be here.
Class IV Advanced
  • AW - Powerful, turbulent and predictable rapids; large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages.  Fast, reliable eddy turns and precise boat handling needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids or rest.  Rapids may require "must" moves above dangerous hazards.  Strong Eskimo roll highly recommended.  Scouting necessary first time.  Self-rescue difficult; skilled group assistance often needed.  Moderate to high risk of injury to swimmers.
  • Me - Ok boys and girls, it's time to whip out those lessons.  If you haven't had any, take some or stay off the water.  Some really, really nice person is going to have to risk his life to save your dumb butt!  Feel free to quote me here.
Class V Expert
  • AW - Extremely long, obstructed or violent rapids with exposure to added risk.  Possible large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes.  Eddies may be small, turbulent, difficult to reach or non-existent.  Reliable Eskimo roll, proper equipment, extensive experience, high level of fitness and practiced rescue skills essential for survival.  Scouting recommended but may be difficult.  Swims are dangerous.  Difficult rescue for experts.
  • Me - Enough said...
Class VI Extreme
(or STUPID)
  • AW - These runs have almost never been attempted and often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger.  The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible.  For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking all precautions.
  • Me - Suicidal!!!  Although there are less painful and violent methods to anyone with average intelligence, few are often more effective.  Can I have dibs on your boat?

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Updated:   Jun. 03, 2008
Visitor:    000348

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