Whitewater Rafting

Serious canoeists or kayakers might sniff at the notion, but a guided rafting trip is the perfect introduction to whitewater.

It's safe and fun for groups of mixed ages and abilities. Rafting gives you a little exercise, a guaranteed adrenaline rush, and an unforgettable day on the water with family or friends. You don't even need to know how to swim.

My first-ever whitewater rafting trip was on the Kennebec River in Maine. I went with New England Outdoor Center. With bases in Caratunk and Millinocket, the company runs an absolutely first-class operation on the Kennebec, Dead and Penobscot Rivers. I recommend them highly.

There are dozens of other rafting companies in these areas and in New York, so it should be easy to find one that's right for you and your crew. We've compiled a list of rafting companies here.

The trip started with a drive to Caratunk (about 3 hours north of Portland). I stayed in a very comfortable cabin at NEOC's Osprey Center Resort. They also have cabin tents and a campsite. I ate a huge breakfast in the dining pavilion and was ready to roll as everyone gathered at 8 am.

Most people go rafting with family or friends. I was flying solo and landed with a group of sleep-deprived graduating seniors from Amesbury, Massachusettes Great kids, I can't imagine having better company.

In about as much time as it takes to tell, they outfitted all of us with wetsuits (necessary in the spring), PFD's, lightweight helmets (optional, but why not wear it?) and paddles. We gathered for a quick paddling lesson and safety lecture, then jumped aboard the bus for the 45-minute trek upriver.

The trip started at the hydro dam at the base of Indian Pond. Whitewater is guaranteed: The power company releases water daily to generate electricity and the rafts ride the burst of rising water.

Pushing off into any whitewater is exactly like stepping into a roller coaster. It grabs you and you go. Within seconds, everyone in our raft was laughing and shrieking for the pure joy of it. And the ride hadn't really started.

The 12-mile trip down the Kennebec takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on current flow and headwinds. But it's the first hour and the first five miles in the Kennebec Gorge that really makes the trip fun. In a long series of heavy Class III and IV rapids you get bounced, splashed and, occasionally, inundated (especially if you choose the front seat.) It's pure sensory overload. We navigated rapids with such features as "Big Mama," "White Washer," "Kayak Keeper" (which we wisely avoided), and "Magic Falls" (where you watch the rafts in front of you disappear one by one).

Like the New York subways, whitewater rafting feels more dangerous than it is. Your greatest danger is getting clonked in the head by a companion's paddle. If you fall overboard, the PFD keeps you afloat and face up until you get unceremoniously hauled aboard the nearest raft (usually the one you fell out of).

The last seven miles of the trip is pure relaxation. If you wish, jump into the water and float alongside the raft. Or just relax and go with the flow to the takeout. Then it's just a short bus ride back to the base and a big barbecue lunch. Not a bad way to spend a day outdoors.

Options

Wherever there's guaranteed water flow, whitewater rafting is big business.

Maine is whitewater central with a dozen or more companies offering trips. Both Massachusetts and Vermont also have some whitewater rafting.

Different companies have different standards, goals and pricing structures. Some go for maximum safety and comfort. Others push the envelope for a little more adventure. You can choose a smaller raft, which increases the thrill -- and the price. Some companies offer self-guided trips in inflatable kayaks on the easier Class II sections of the rivers. Many of these companies have overnight accommodations and shore barbecues. Many companies have weight and age restrictions.

Ask questions before you book your trip. Here's a list of companies to get you started.

What to bring

Proper dress for whitewater rafting includes a bathing suit or river shorts that will stay on (you'll wear these under your wetsuit in cold water.) If you have your own wetsuit, by all means bring it.

You do need footwear. The best are river sandals or neoprene dive booties in cold weather. Sneakers you don't mind getting wet are okay. Wool or polypro socks will help keep your feet warm.

On the water, you'll want cheap sunglasses (in case you lose them) with a retainer.

Waterproof sunblock and a brimmed hat are nice if the sun is shining. You spend a lot of time out in the sun at mid-day.

Blackflies and mosquitoes can be a problem. Waterproof insect repellent in a good idea.

A waterproof camera if fun to have along. If you don't have one, buy a one-time use waterproof camera at any camera shop, department store or drugstore.