How Do You Plan A Course Through Rapids?
Not even the most skilled rafting crew can control a river, but safe passage through rapids can be achieved by cooperating with the river and with careful planning. Land your rafts a safe distance from the rapids and seek out a vantage point from which to scout out the terrain before entering any set of rapids. Know the rating on the rapids you are about to enter and know what that rating means. Decide if your rafting crew is up to engaging the rapids. If you have doubts, you may want to carry your rafts around the rapids. Never allow pride and recklessness to lead you and others into dangerous situations. Note the tongues of the rapids. These are V-shaped indentions at the entry to the rapids, which are caused by the lowest level of water, flowing the swiftest, into the rapids. Plan your course starting from the tongue of the rapids. This is almost always the best point of entry. If the rapids have multiple tongues, decide which tongue offers the safest route. Take note of all potenti
