Kayak Clinics:

FAQs

What is the best kayak trip for me?

Upper Green Rush – The Upper Green River is one of the steepest sections being run on a commercial basis in the southeast. Not for the feign of heart, this section of river boasts an elevation drop of 80 feet per mile in it’s maximum quarter mile and an average of 49 feet per mile throughout. Consisting of mostly class II and III rapids, two class IV’s make this section of river guaranteed to raise your heart rate! Please note: there is ½ miles hike out at the end of the trip.

Lower Green Adventure – The lower section of the Green River is perfect for all ages, and families with children. This section of river has multiple class II rapids and one class III. Perfect for an introduction to whitewater or a family river adventure!

How are rapids rated for difficulty?

International Scale of River Difficulty

Class I Easy. Few or no obstructions; fast moving water with riffles; risk to swimmers is slight.

Class II Novice. Wide clear channels; occasional maneuvering; rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured; assistance is helpful but rarely needed.

Class III Intermediate. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and capable of swamping a canoe; complex maneuvers in fast current and narrow passages require good boat control; large waves, holes and strainers may be present but are easily avoided; powerful current; scouting advisable; swimmers are unlikely to be injured but assistance may be needed to avoid a long swim.

Class IV Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids; turbulent water; may involve long, unavoidable waves, holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure; may require "must" moves above dangerous hazards; risk of injury to swimmers in moderate to high; group assistance to swimmers requires practiced skills.

Class V Expert. Long, obstructed, turbulent rapids; drops may contain very large unavoidable waves, holes or steep congested chutes with complex demanding routes; several of these factors may be combined at the upper level of this class; rescue is extremely difficult; above average rescue skills are essential.

What if I cannot swim?

On all trips, Coast Guard-approved life jackets are provided and must be worn. If you cannot swim or have limited swimming skills we recommend you participate in a Lower Green trip.

Do I have to be physically fit?

You must paddle in order to navigate the river safely. You do not need to be an athlete, however, good physical condition is recommended. Lower Green trips are much less strenuous than Upper Green trips. Upper Green trips are a more difficult paddle, and require a ½ mile hike out of the river carrying all of your gear from the trip.

What do I need to wear?

The water on the Green River is warm. If the weather is warm, a bathing suit and shoes that will stay on your feet while swimming are recommended. During early spring and late fall, we recommend layering with synthetics such as fleece or polypropylene. Anything you forgot or need for the trip can be purchased in our store.

What if there is bad weather?

Our trips run rain or shine. Hopefully, you are going to get wet anyway! In the event of a locally severe lighting storm, trips may be postponed until the weather clears. Exposure to lighting while on the river is minimal because of the high ridgelines and trees that surround the river. If a trip must be cancelled due to the unlikely event of high water, full refunds will be given to clients with reservations.

What factors determine the age/weight requirements?

The determining factors usually revolve around the likelihood of a flip or swim and at what age or size can a child listen to and understand instructions. We have seen kids below the minimums that were perfectly capable and we have seen kids that meet all the minimum requirements, but are still not ready. You, the parent/guardian, are the ultimate decision maker here. Ask yourself these questions: Can your child understand the dangers? Does your child have enough size or body fat to have control of their body in chilly water? Can your child rescue him/herself or will parents be so concerned about a young child they put their own health at risk?

We set minimum ages and weights based on our experience on the Green River. Green River Adventures will not knowingly take an underage person on our trips, we do ask and we do require a signature from a parent/guardian signifying proper age. Don’t push the limits with your child! It’s not worth the risk!