1-800-400-RAFT

WILLIAM McGINNIS’

whitewater voyages

California’s Leader in Whitewater Rafting Since 1975

OutstandingAffordableSuper Fun!

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All of California’s Best RiversWith Whitewater Voyages you get the best selectionof fabulous rivers near you! Many of our clients fall inlove with a special river near them and raft it with usyear after year, while others join us on a succession of rivers new to them, exploring enticing canyons allover California. No other outfitter even comes close to offering so many fabulous rivers an easy drive fromCalifornia’s metropolitan areas. See our Rivers Map &Chart on pages 4 & 5.

International Reputation for Leadership and ExcellenceOur guides are personally mentored by author, river rafting pioneer and Whitewater Voyages head guide Bill McGinnis, whose books Whitewater Rafting, TheGuide’s Guide Augmented, The Class V Briefing, TheWhitewater Voyages Guide School Handbook and RiverSignals are used by outfitters and guides the world over.Bill’s practical philosophy and methods for inspiringheightened levels of acceptance, appreciation, wellbeing and just plain fun in a context of adventure, friend-ship and growth not only infuse and uplift WhitewaterVoyages trips, they also influence guiding throughoutNorth America and the world. Their high level of skill,responsibility and caring has for decades distinguishedWhitewater Voyages guides as international leaders intheir profession. To cite a bit of anecdotal evidence: Atone time, 3 out of the 4 rafting companies in Norwayand all of the companies on Africa’s Zambezi were man-aged by Whitewater Voyages guides. To learn moreabout Bill McGinnis’ books and philosophy, visit our web-site at whitewatervoyages.com.

A Fantastic Vacation ValueWhitewater Voyages not only provides the very finesttrips at affordable, competitive, everyday prices, wealso offer some of the best special deals in the worldof rafting—see below and next column.

Gourmet Camp CuisineThe perfect, essential complement to the exhilaratingadventure of rafting is our abundant, delicious gourmetcamp cuisine made with fresh, healthy, whole-foodingredients. Our staff prepares fabulous meals andhappy hour spreads. A typical dinner, for example, consists of tender steak, succulent barbecued chicken,and mouth-watering grilled fish accompanied by crispsalad, corn on the cob and other trimmings plus a savorypie or cake fresh from the Dutch Oven. Also, deliciousvegetarian alternatives are available by request.

Family DiscountsOn the Kings and South Fork American, each youngperson under 17 accompanied by a full-fare adult ishalf OFF! Kids love our stories, adventure games andjoie de vivre.

Professional, Friendly, Entertaining River GuidesOur staff of talented, caring professionals is truly dedicated to making each and every trip the finestpossible. Skilled as boat captain, chef and entertainer,trained in CPR and first aid, each is interesting, intelli-gent, fun, gentle and good to be with. Depending onyour interests, we are always delighted to spice thingsup with adventure games, nature lore, magic and tales

Whitewater Voyages–Outstanding · aff

Dear Rafting Friends,As California’s whitewater rafting leadersince 1975, Whitewater Voyages goes theextra mile—year after year—in waysbig and small:–We’re doing our utmost to keep our tripsaffordable—and have lowered the priceson some of our most popular trips!–To make the total cost of your raftinggetaway as affordable as possible, we’veprepared an exclusive WhitewaterVoyages Guide to Free Camping andAccommodation Discounts onCalifornia Rivers. See:WhitewaterVoyages.com/freecampingguide/–To enhance the overall fun on our trips,we’re always adding extras—at noadditional charge! For example, we’verecently added:-Tournament-quality pool tables in ourRiver Park Adventure Campground inColoma on the South Fork AmericanRiver.-Chess and checker tables on the LowerKern, Kings and South Fork American.-Entertaining, informative, andinspirational self-guided nature walks inour Kings, Lower Kern and South ForkAmerican campgrounds. Of course, all this is in addition to greatfood, smooth logistics, attention to detailand safety, an over-arching buoyancy ofbeing, and inspired guides at the top oftheir profession–all on wonderfulCalifornia rivers near you! We were the first to conduct trips onmany of the rivers in this catalog, and formany, many years we have guided morepeople down more California rivers thanany other outfitter. Still, we feel that ourgreatest achievement has been to placequality of service above all else, fostering awarm, caring and supportive style ofguiding that places the enjoyment andsafety of our guests uppermost. We trulydevote ourselves wholeheartedly to makingeach and every trip the finest possible. We go to see and taste the wildplaces, to merge a bit with the surging flow—and also to enjoy theconversation, the personal contact, thewhole sense of expedition and adventure.Our trips are excursions into awonderful, sensual, delightful world. Andwith the experience, we find, comes areawakening to the fundamental, enduringgoodness and richness of life on this earth.We look forward to sharing with you anoutstanding, affordable, super-fun raftinggetaway! Contact us soon to reserve theyour dates!WE WARMLY WELCOME YOU!

Bill McGinnis

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Whitewater Voyages operates under special use permits from the Bureau of Land Management, California Department of Parks and Recreation, El Dorado County, Yuba County Water Agency, Tulare County, Army Corps of Engineers, and the following National Forests: Sequoia, Sierra, Stanislaus, El Dorado and Tahoe.

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contentsRiver ComparisonChart 4/5

Southern CaliforniaLower Kern 6The Forks of the Kern 7Class III-IV Upper Kern 8Thunder Run 9Class V Warm-Up 9

So./Central CaliforniaKaweah 10Kings 11Removable Poster Centerfold 12-13

Mid California South Fork American 14Saturday Night Special 14Middle Fork American 14South, Middle and North

Fork American Combos 14Map of River Park Adventure Campground 15Tuolumne 16Merced 17Lower North Yuba 18North Yuba Combo 18Upper North Yuba 18North Fork American 18

SchoolsWhitewater Schools 19

Gear ListWhat to Bring, Etc. 20Important Information 20

Voyages’ OutletBooks, T-shirts, Posters,Video, Wetsuit Rentals 21

Additional InformationReservations, Cancellations,Traveler’s Insurance, About Trip Prices, Returned Checks, Transfer Fee, Non-performance, Liability and Safety. Minors 22

Special TripsFor information on our RiverClean-up, Whitewater Outreachand Theme Trips call us orvisit whitewatervoyages.com.

• Befriend us please! WhitewaterVoyages.com/friends& facebook.com/whitewatervoyages

For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

of local history–both real and imagined.

We Take Extra Special Care of You!All of the above notwithstanding, what most distin-guishes Whitewater Voyages from all other outfittersis the fun, friendly and caring atmosphere we strive to create on each and every whitewater adventure. So please choose us—you will be glad you did!

Attention to Detail and SafetyWe have been improving and refining our trips fordecades and it shows: Our shuttles and other triplogistics are smooth and professional. Our safety talks and in-boat trainings at the start of each trip setthe standard in thoroughness, supportiveness andpure fun! And our 400+ page website and other tripliterature provide a virtual encyclopedia of informationnot only about each of our trips (including localaccommodations and attractions near each river), but also about rafting and rivers in general.

State-of-the-Art River GearWe use only rugged, inflatable, self-bailing boats whichare compartmented and unsinkable. Paddle boats, with6 to 8 people plus a guide in each, are the boats ofchoice—everyone is involved, sometimes drifting easily,oftentimes vigorously paddling away, whooping andscreaming, with waves crashing in. On some rivers wealso have oar boats for those who do not want to pad-dle–but prefer to relax and dream. On all trips we carryfull safety and emergency gear, and we are equipped toprovide emergency first aid in case of illness or injury.

• 15% OFF for groups of 12 or more andevery 12th person rafts FREE!Our research–and our interstellar scouts–tell us ours is one of the best group rates in the universe! Plus, our FREE Group Kits—which have color posters, fliers, CD movies, etc.—make rounding up a group fun and easy. Call us for your FREE Group Kit today.

• FREE CAMPING & ACCOMMODATIONDISCOUNTS Near All of Our Rivers! –For South, Middle & North Fork American trips, wewarmly invite you to camp FREE in our very owncommodious, 7-acre, river-beach, amenity-filledcampground in River Park Adventure Campground on theSouth Fork American the night before and the night afteryour trip with us. See page 15.–For all of our other rivers, see our exclusive WhitewaterVoyages Guide to Free Camping and AccommodationDiscounts on California Rivers on our website atWhitewaterVoyages.com/freecampingguide/

• 20% OFF for Same-Year Repeat RaftersRaft twice or more with us in one year, and your second and all subsequent trips that year are 20% OFF!

• 50% Weekday Family DiscountsEach young person under 17 accompanied by a full-fare adult receives 50% OFF on the Kings and South Fork American on weekdays. Young persons not matched with a full-paying trip member pay youth fare (10% off).

• 15% OFF Super Low Holiday Weekend Specials 15% OFF on the Kings and South Fork American on the following weekends: Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, July 4th and Labor Day.

• Youth & Senior DiscountsYouths 16 & under and seniors 65 & older receive approximately 10% off regular prices.

Important Note: Of course, what reallymakes Whitewater Voyages trips a superdeal is that with us you get the bestpossible trip at a great price!

* Discounts must be mentioned at the time of booking—no retroactive discounts. Only one discount per person. Some restrictions apply. Other discounts may be available. See our website atwww.WhitewaterVoyages.com.

ordable · super-fun!

Super deals & COOL FACTS*

With Whitewater Voyages, savor the beauty and excitement ofour natural world; dine on healthy, abundant, mouth-wateringcamp cuisine; explore the full spectrum of whitewater; andcamp free the night before and the night after your trip in ourRiver Park Adventure Campground on the South ForkAmerican, where the amenities include free pool tables, giantchess, horse shoes, volley ball, hot showers and so much more!

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Please see page 22 for information regarding reservations and cancellations.

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river comparison

Our rivers at a glance

Overview: Rapids and rivers are rated on a scale from I to VI.When rafting with a professionalguide, class I & II are relativelymild; class III is consideredbeginning level; class III-IV & IVare a good choice for adventurousfirst-timers and experiencedrafters; class IV+ & V are bestsuited to those in good physicalcondition with rafting experience;and class VI is unrunnable.

Forks of the Kern

Thunder Run

Upper Kern

Lower Kern

Lower North Yuba

Upper North Yuba

Lower North Yuba

North Fork American

Middle Fork American

South Fork American

Cherry Creek

Tuolumne

MercedSan Francisco

Sacramento

Merced

Bakersfield

Fresno

Santa Barbara

KingsKaweah

Yosemite Park

▲ Ratings are based on normal flows and can change with variations of water level.

White-water Number Length MinimumClass of Days in Miles Age

Class III BeginnerExciting but not difficult. Fun for everyone– South Fork American III+ 3/4, 1 or 2 9-11 or 20 6Big runnable waves, first-timers and Kings III+ 1 or 2 9 or 18 10 in Spring, swift current with obstacles veterans alike! 7 in Summereasy to miss.

Class III-IV Beginner-IntermediateA blend of class III & IV. Ideal for both Lower Kern III-IV 1 or 2 8, 12 or 20 9, 10 or 12Generally begins with class III first-timers and Upper Kern III-IV 1/2 or 1 6 or 12 12and works up to class IV. veterans. Merced III-IV 1 8-13 12 in Spring,

10 in SummerLower North Yuba III-IV 1 or 2 8, 9 or 17 12

Class IV IntermediateLong rapids, big drops, numerous Excellent for Tuolumne IV 1, 2, 21/2, 18 14 in Spring, obstacles. Powerful and precise experienced rafters or 3 12 in Summermanuevering required. and adventurous Middle Fork American III-IV 1 or 2 17 12

first-timers.

Class IV+ Intermediate-AdvancedHigh intensity whitewater. Steeper, Good physical Kaweah IV+ 1 or 2 8 or 16 14more technically intricate rapids condition required. North Fork American IV+ 1 9-11 14requiring strong, vigorous paddling. Previous experience

recommended.

Class V AdvancedMaximum intensity whitewater. Good physical Forks of the Kern V 2 or 3 18 16Extremely long, complicated rapids condition essential. Thunder Run V 1 9 16with very steep gradient requiring Previous paddle rafting Upper North Yuba V 1 8-10 16strong and precise paddling and experience stronglyexpertise in maneuvering. recommended. Class V

Warm-Up and Class VTraining Talk required.

Class VI Unrunable Niagra Falls is a VI Runnable only in the movies.

CHOOSING THERIGHT RIVER

FOR YOU River

River Rating Scale of Guided Whitewater Rafting▲

Please call so we can help you choose the best river for you!

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5For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com* These estimates are based on historical runoff patterns. Any particular season on a given river, regardless of snowpack, may vary greatly. ** Dam release flows.

At the heart of a rich,full life are not onlyfun and adventure,but also connection,sharing and bondingwith others. Toencourage you toshare your next tripwith family andfriends, WhitewaterVoyages offers oneof the best grouprates in the universe:Groups of 12 or moreget roughly 15% offplus you the groupleader go FREE!

Making the most ofeach moment of lifeon this amazingplanet!

For Elevation more

Light Normal Heavy Nearest Town & Zip of Put-in InfoLos San Sacra- Snowpack Snowpack Snowpack Code (For latest forecast Gra- (Feet above see Angeles Francisco mento Year Year Year on weather.com) dient sea level) page

435 136 53 April-Oct.** April-Oct.** April-Oct.** Coloma, 95613 24 930 14 265 241 231 April-June April-July April-Aug. Sanger, 93657 35 1280 11

165 335 338 May-Aug.** April-Sept.** April-Oct.** Lake Isabella, 93240 30 2360 6165 335 338 April-June April-mid-July April-Sept. Kernville, 93238 45 3740 8292 167 156 April-late June April-early June April-Aug. El Portal, 95318 32 1700 17

479 177 95 April-May April-June April-July Goodyears Bar, 95944 45 2700 18

337 142 129 March-Oct.** March-Oct.** March-Oct.** Groveland, 95321 40 1430 16

420 119 35 May-early Aug.** May-Oct.** May-Oct.** Auburn, 95604 40 1100 14

212 265 245 April-early June April-early July April-early Aug. Three Rivers, 93271 60 1200 10420 119 35 April-May April-June April-July Colfax, 95713 50 1100 18

165 335 338 May-June May-mid July May-Sept. Kernville, 93238 60 4680 7165 335 338 April-May April-June April-Aug. Kernville, 93238 63 3740 9479 177 95 April-May April-June April-July Downieville, 95936 72 3350 18

Runnable Season*Distance in Miles from:

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Water LevelsDepending on snowpack and time ofyear, river water levels can vary from high to medium to low. On high water,generally speaking, we ride faster current,climb over larger waves and crash throughmore powerful holes. On low flows, onthe other hand, we encounter smallerwaves and more rocks, and with tightteamwork maneuver down steeper, chutes and more abrupt drops. High water generally occurs during springrunoff in May and early June, while lowerflows are normally found at the tail endof each river’s runnable season. Mediumwater is found in between. Exceptions tothis pattern are rivers controlled byupstream dams—which might have dailyflow fluctuations but which, in the courseof the year, generally have less variation,less pronounced high and low water peri-ods. The thing to remember is that, withWhitewater Voyages, high, medium andlow water all have their special appeal, and all can provide truly great fun.note: The runnable season for any given river may vary from year to year

depending on snowpack and weather. The seasons cited here are those typicalof years with normal snowpack.

use feesAll trip prices are subject to an additional 3-7% land and governmentriver use fee depending on the river thatyou choose. Prices and pricing policiesare subject to change.

ReservationsPlease see page 22 for informationregarding reservations and cancellations.

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Free Guide to theKern River Valleyand SequoiaNational Forest

In addition to world class white-water recreation, Sequoia NationalForest and the Kern River Valleyoffer great fishing, camping, hiking,rock climbing, waterskiing, biking,birding, wind-surfing and much,much more! In order to help spreadthe word about this rich vacation-land mecca, we have put together adetailed information packet calledthe “Whitewater Voyages Guide to theKern River Valley and Sequoia NationalForest.”This guide will be automati-cally sent to you when you make aKern reservation with us.

Southern California

The lovely Kern hides in its own specialwilderness, couched in a winding canyonoverhung with willow, alder and luxuriantsycamore. Nestled deep in this paradise isour overnight camp, which features shadyawnings, conversation-enhancing diningtables, fireside seating, volleyball, horse-shoes, nearby hot springs, and a swimming rapid that’s more fun than awater slide! In this idyllic setting, ourguides serve delicious meals, and in theevening we lounge under dazzling starsaround a cozy campfire.

One-Day LOwer kern Trips!Jungle Run 1 Day ~ Class III ~ 8 MilesBig Water Run 1 Day ~ Class IV ~ 12 Miles Afternoon Jungle Run 1/2 Day ~ Class III ~ 6 to 8Miles

The Jungle Run; 8 river miles; mainlyclass III; minimum age is 9. And the BigWater Run; 12 river miles; mainly classIV; the minimum age is 12.

lower Kern

w h i t e wat er v o ya ge s

An intrepid paddle crew runs the class III-IV Lower Kern, southern California’s most popular river. Ideal for first-time and veteran rafters alike, the Kern typically flows all summer and is only 21/2 hours from Los Angeles.

forks/kern

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Lower KernApril-September Southern Sierra Escape2 Days ~ Class III-IV ~ 20 Miles

In Sequoia National Forest, an easy drivefrom Southern California metropolitanareas, the Lower Kern River charges down a steep, convoluted gorge lined with smooth white granite boulders. The run begins in moderate tempo andgradually builds to a stampeding finish.On the first day the cool, clear flow alternately dashes through heaving rapidsand canters through jungle-like stretchesof lush foliage. Then in the course ofthe second day, the river runs headlongthrough a series of galloping rapids ofever-escalating intensity.

In one place the canyon is completelychoked with boulders and the rafts must be carried around. As the home-stretch draws near, the sinewy Kernexplodes into gnashing, foam-filled eruptions of whitewater.

“Your guides are

artists at getting

people to work

together, feeling part

of a group and

preparing food and

presenting it like a

watercolor painting,

almost too pretty

to touch!”

–Judy Potthast

“2005 was my 19th year rafting with

Whitewater Voyages on the Kern! Next

year will be my 20th! It is always

fantastic! Thanks so much!”

–Beverly Ball

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Peppermint Falls is just one of many scenic splendors on the class VWild and Scenic Forks of the Kern. The Forks on Video! See page 21.

the forksof the KernWilderness JuggernautMay-mid July ~ Class V ~ 18 Miles ~ 2 & 3 Days

A whitewater paradise! In this breathtak-ing canyon of solid granite deep withinSequoia National Forest, the Kern Riverpirouettes through what is probably thefinest stretch of raftable whitewater inNorth America. Eighteen miles long anddropping at the astonishing rate of 60feet per mile, the river tumbles through a supremely delightful, nearly continuousseries of class IV and V rapids andwaterfalls. Awesome drops, mammothholes and towering waves crowd in oneafter the next in quick-fire, presto temposeemingly without end. The Forks ofthe Kern has such an abundance ofsuperlative rapids that even if thesecataracts were spread out over a 50-mile-long run, the result would be one of themost relentless and ecstatic pieces ofwhitewater anywhere. Yet here on theForks, this cannonball water is packed

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For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

slapdash together, like a screaming, dancing cyclone, like an orchestra in ever-building crescendo, like an ongoingearthquake rumbling higher and higheron the Richter scale. The miracle is thatthe run is thoroughly raftable!

Rising well over 1000 feet, the canyonwalls are in places swathed in lush, slop-ing forest and elsewhere are of naked,vertical granite. The water of the river iscrystal clear; the fishing is heavenly; andthe woods lining the banks are lovely to behold and ideal for camping.Spectacular side-canyon cascades plungeinto the canyon. A few yards from theriver, Freeman Creek forms a magicalwaterfall, full and high, descending intoan enormous bowl. And Dry MeadowCreek enters the main canyon down astaircase of magnificent waterfalls in asmooth, voluptuous gorge. It is whollyappropriate that this river was designatedin 1987 a National Wild and ScenicRiver.

The launch point, at the confluence

of the Little Kern River with the mainKern, is accessible only by trail—a 3-mile-long, Forest Service rocky trail which inclines steeply down into themajestic canyon. All food and river gear is transported in by pack animals and each member carries in his or her owngear (we suggest a 30-lb. limit) in specialwaterproof bags with padded shoulderstraps which we provide. Packing inheightens the isolation, the wildernessadventure and the awareness that thiscanyon is profoundly special.

Whitewater Voyages was the very first to raft the entire Forks of the Kern without portaging in 1980. The Forksshould be attempted only by healthy,active, rugged people with the ability to hike in, strong swimming skills and previous whitewater rafting experience. All participants must be able to pass the Class V Warm-Up –see page 9.Wetsuits are included in the tripprice.

“We were quite

impressed with your

staff. They are

extremely friendly

and professional,

which enhanced our

experience. Thanks

so much for all

that you do . . .

we’ll be back!”

–Jeff Berman, MD

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For superlative class V whitewater, extraordinary wilderness isolation and spectacularscenery, the Forks of the Kern is one of the world’s ultimate river journeys.

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UPPER KERNDAZZLERApril-July ~ Class III-IV ~ Upper KernThree departures daily

On the Dazzler, after a quick warm uprun, we head straight for the very best ofthe charging, galloping Upper Kern–wherewe ride and ride and ride some more!The 20+mile Wild and Scenic UpperKern is naturally divided into numerousshorter sections with names that are leg-ends in the world of whitewater:Limestone, Chamise Gorge, Powerhouse,Cables, Ant Canyon. Each of thesefamous runs is different at differentflows, and each has its own unique idealflow. So, whichever sections are best onthe flow the day of your trip, those arewhat we run. Our buses and flatbedraft trailers make transfers from run torun smooth and swift. On thesetrips–which are approximately 41/2-hourslong–there is no lunch, no down time, noflat water, just maximum, high-energy,class III-IV action and non-stopwhitewater fun!

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The Wild and Scenic Upper Kern—a whitewater wonderland for bothbeginning and experienced rafters alike.

upper Kern

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thunder run

We enjoyed our trip immensely! Our wholegroup is already talking about coming back for a2-day trip. You are by far the best company onthe Kern River and the best deal!-Jenny Elsey We enjoyed our trip so much! Lunch was spec-tacular, all the staff were friendly, caring andknowledgeable! Our guide knew the Kern verywell and informed us about the rapids, theirnames and history of the area. She made the tripfun and worthwhile. Great time!-Jessie Swanson

VISIT TheWhitewater

Voyages Kern OutdoorCenter (K .o.C.)

We warmly invite you to visitthe Whitewater Voyages KernOutdoor Center in Frandy Parkon the river in Kernville, thebase of operations for all ofour Kern trips. As well as aretail outlet with t-shirts, etc.,and a river photo center, thisattractive facility features a shad-ed awning area, changing booths,nearby accessible showers andrestrooms, wetsuit rentals andmuch more. For same-day andnext-day Kern bookings, visit orcall K.O.C. at 760-376-8806.K.O.C. is open daily Maythrough season’s end.

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SNAP, CRACKLE& POP!April-July ~ Class III-IV ~ Upper KernOne Day Odyssey from 8 AM to 3:30 PM

Depending on water levels and the group’sinterests, we jet down several different sec-tions of the Upper Kern, beginning with astretch that is not totally overwhelmingand gradually working up to stretchespacked with sheer heart-thumping excite-ment. Our buses and flatbed raft trailersmake transfers from one run to the nextsmooth and swift. An ideal choice forboth the novice and seasoned rafter, thesefull-day trips include lunch and beverages.Minimum age 12. Note: Please understand that at certainwater levels the best class IV stretches arewell upriver from Kernville and require abit more bus time—and the time framesquoted here for Upper Kern trips areapproximate.

Southern California

Books by THEWhitewaterVoyages STAFFThe talented, ever-exploring staffof Whitewater Voyages has written a rich array of wonderful books,including: Gabriel’s Story by DavidDurham (Doubleday), a gripping,thoughtful action-adventure western;The Hookmen by Tim Hillmer(University Press of Colorado), anaward winning adventure novel set onthe Kern River; Thirteen Moons: A Year in the Wilderness by Robert Johnson(Capra Press), a hilariously entertain-ing journal about living in a teepeein Giant Gap; and The Guide’s GuideAugmented by William McGinnis(Whitewater Voyages Press) thedefinitive how to book on riverguiding used by rafting companiesworldwide (see page 21). For acomplete list, see our web site. Mostof these titles are available at majorbook stores and Amazon.com.

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“Our rafting trip

on the Kern

exceeded all of our

expectations!

It was one of the

most enjoyable

family experiences

we’ve ever had.We

would certainly

not hesitate to

recommend your

outfit to any of

our friends or

family. You

run a great

organization!”

–Glenn Ozaki

Exhilaration on the Wild and Scenic Kern. Less than 3 hours from L.A., the Kern is California’ssouthern-most whitewater run. With everything from beginner to advanced (class III to V)whitewater, and half day to 3-day trips, the Kern has something for everyone. Plus, the quainttown of Kernville, with its bed and breakfast inns, riverside lodges, restaurants, etc., is a populardestination in itself.

For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

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CLASS V WARM-UPRafting class V rapids and waterfalls requires wholehearted participation and team work—and paddlerswho are in good physical condition. Previous rafting experience is strongly recommended, but not alwaysrequired. At the beginning of each class V trip, at the trip leader’s discretion, all participants stretch, runin place, do calisthenics, practice high siding, swim under the boat, and swim in and out of rapids, eddiesand holes.

Class V rafting is strenuous and adventurous, so be sensible. If you are not ready for this warm-up and therigors of class V, please select one of our many less difficult runs. We reserve the right to turn away thosewho we feel are not well suited to these high adventure class V trips. In such cases, there is a 50% creditapplicable to another trip.

Thunder runApril-June ~ Class V ~ 9 Miles ~ 1 Day

Continuous top-flight whitewater inSequoia National Forest on the Wild and Scenic Upper Kern! By combiningdramatic class V drops and boulder gardens with rip-roaring class III and IVsections in between, this voyage welds the Upper Kern into an electrifying ribbon of relentless, exploding white-water. Long, pulsating rapids rock and roll one after the next. An ongoing frenzied dance of intense pleasure, thisrun bounds over high drops and twirlsamong boulders on and on, rumbling and booming, mile after mile. Here, cliffs of red, yellow and magenta conjurevisions of the Painted Desert, and crys-talline water cascades in tight moves down gorges of sculpturesque stone.

A full step up in excitement and diffi-culty from the Lower Kern, this class Vrun is for seasoned, daring people only.All participants must be physically fit,swim well, and have previous class IVpaddling experience. Wetsuits are essen-tial. Mainly paddle boats are used.Paddlers must, at the beginning of thetrip, pass the Class V Warm-Up.NOTES: The Thunder Run includes such class V rapids as Squashed Paddler,Sock’em Dog, The Flume, and FenderBender. During times of low flow,Thunder Runs will be run on the class IV sections of the Upper Kern.

Black Bottom Falls – one of a multitude of wonderful rapids — on the class V Thunder Run on the Wild and ScenicUpper Kern.

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How can we make our trip more enjoyable? Hard to suggest improvement on perfection! Thetrip was flawless. Keep us on the mailing list—you have die hard fans!–Jennifer Rigby

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KaweahKINGS

1-800-400-RAFT

Bill Mcginnis California native Bill McGinnis trained as a river guide at age 16 in 1963 with California’s firstoutfitter. After earning a Masters in English literature, Bill wrote Whitewater Rafting, The Guide’s Guide, The Class V Briefing,River Signals and, most recently, The Guide’s Guide Augmented.

Since Bill started Whitewater Voyages in 1975 with two rafts and a $500 gift from his grandmother, the company hasgrown steadily and today guides more people on more trips down more California rivers than any other rafting company.The core reason for this phenomenal success is client loyalty inspired by quality service–people keep coming back andbringing their friends!

In recognition of his many contributions to the sport of rafting–which include his books, numerous magazine articles,pioneering new runs, first descents and fostering a supportive and inclusive style of guiding–Bill was named one of thetop Paddlers of the Century by Paddler Magazine, the sport’s leading national publication.

As well as teaching all of our guide schools, occasionally leading trips, and managing Whitewater Voyages (with the help of many, many wonderfulpeople), Bill is working on both a detective novel set in the Kern River Valley and a book with the current working title You are a River: Keeping YourSpirit Alive. Drawing on a lifetime of running rivers and leading people in all kinds of situations, this latter book will be the fullest expression yet ofBill’s philosophy of and methods for making the most of–and creating joy in–the ever unfolding, ever challenging adventure of living on this planet.

kaweahApril-June Sequoia Shooter1 Day ~ Class IV+ ~ 8 Miles Sequoia Getaway 2 Day ~ Class IV+ ~ 16 Miles

Just north of the Kern, a three-hour drive from Los Angeles, the Kaweah pantsand plunges through a multitude of great rapids. Running the Kaweah, we push at high speed down narrow reed-lined passageways. Again and againwe burst upon fast, wild class IV+ rapidsthrobbing with fast current, big drops,and boulders—requiring strong paddling and expertise of maneuver.

In places, the Kaweah has its quietmoods—streaming down living corridors

of willow, sycamore, cottonwood, andalder. In an area known as the Slickies,the whole river glides down sensuousflumes and water slides of solid granitepolished smooth over the eons.

Located adjacent to Highway 198 near the entrance to Sequoia NationalPark, the Kaweah combines well with a visit to the giant Sequoias, the largestliving entities on earth.

This challenging class IV+ run is recommended only for fit, active, experi-enced paddlers with strong swimmingability who are able to stay in a wildlytossing boat all the while paddling vigorously. Wetsuits are required throughMay, and recommended on cooler daysthereafter.

About a 3 hour drive from Los Angeles, the class IV+ Kaweah is rightat the entrance to Sequoia National Park, home of the Giant Sequoias,earth’s largest living entities.

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Southern/centralCalifornia

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“Haystack” waves of pure, total fun make the class III+ Kings a wonderful, natural roller coaster ride. A fabulous river for people of all ages 7 to 77, the centrally located Kings is withincomfortable driving distance of California’s metropolitan areas.

rafting (20 river miles), four extravagantlydelicious meals (lunch and dinner withhappy hour and desert on day one, andbreakfast and lunch on day two), onenight in our idyllic, amenity-filled Kingsbase camp, plus beverages and snacks attrip’s end.

Ultra Mega Ride the Glide Two Days, Two NightsThis option is the very best choice forgroups and individuals seeking a com-plete and relaxing Kings River whitewatervacation! You arrive at our base campbetween 7 and 11 P.M. the night beforeyour trip and drift off to sleep listeningto the majestic Kings murmuring past.The next morning you plunge into twofull days of rafting (20 river miles) andfive feast-like meals starting with break-fast on day one and ending with lunch onday two. Also included are beer, wine,snacks, juices and other beverages, and arousing slide show featuring you and yourfriends rafting that day. As the slide pre-sentation re-creates the day’s excitementand adventure, you and your friends bothold and new will likely hoot and howl,all the while savoring mouth-wateringdeserts fresh from our Dutch ovens witha glass of wine.

These trips also allow ample time toenjoy the rich amenities of ourGarden-of-Eden base camp which includethe soothing waters of our very ownswimming calm; an inspirational,information-packed, self-guided naturetrail; stimulating conversation with charis-

matic souls; volleyball, horseshoes andKoob, the game of the Vikings; and muchmore! We conclude each trip with cele-bratory beverages, snacks and, naturally,because sharing the Kings inevitablyinspires amazing camaraderie, fondfarewells.

Notes: –Our two-day trips normally start onTuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.Other two-day starts may be arranged forgroups of 12 or more.–All of our Kings trips generally endaround 4 P.M., allowing plenty of timefor a relaxed drive home.

A La Carte Extra Choices toEnhance Your Kings AdventureThese extra options must be booked in advance. –Dinner with Happy Hour and DesertThe evening before and/or after your trip, expand youradventure with an uplifting happy hour, deliciousdinner and fresh, out-of-this-world desert to die for!Happy hour is served at 6 P.M., dinner at 7 P.M. Adult$40; Youth $30; Group of 12 or more $25. Minimumgroup size 6.–BreakfastMake your most important meal of the day nourishingand memorable beyond imaging! Breakfast is served at8 A.M.Kings Hot Breakfast: Adult $13; Youth $11; Group$10.(Also available: Kings Continental Breakfast: Adult $9;Youth $7; Group $6.)–CampingExtra night’s camping in our idyllic, sandy-beach basecamp, which features the world’s best swimming calm.Adult $16; Youth $14; Group $12.–Kings Non-Rafter Mega One-DayIncludes camping, breakfast and lunch. Adult $65;Youth $55.–Kings Non-Rafter Two-Day TripIncludes four meals for Ride the Glide (two day,one night) trips or five meals for Ultra Mega Ridethe Glide (two day, two night) trips: Adult $85;Youth $65.

For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

“We had our usualgreat time on the Kings River!Your staff was ontop of their game as expected.This was our sixth trip. All wasfirst class.We shallsurely return!”–Daniel MacLeith

“I just came backfrom a 1 day tripon the KingsRiver. I went witha group of 20people and we hada great time! Itwas one of themost entertainingactivities most ofus have ever beenon and we lookforward to goingagain in thefuture! Thank youWhitewaterVoyages for a greatexperience andspecial thanks toour wonderfulguide!”–Michael Nguyen

KINGSMay-July ~ Class III+ Note: Free Kings Wet Suit Rentals!

A delightful California classic! Thelargest river of the Sierra, the Kings isfamous for its long, exhilarating roller-coaster-like rapids. During the highwater typical of late May and early June, wave trains with waves as high as 10 feetprovide long, thrilling rides perfect foradventurous first-timers and experiencedrafters who want a rollicking, splashinggood time. Before and after high water,the Kings is an idyllic whitewater won-derland with over 40 rapids perfect forfirst-timers, families and people of allages from 7 to 77. This is a river ofpure fun without the anxiety thatsometimes accompanies tougher runs.

Just upstream from our run, the Kingsmoves through magnificent KingsCanyon. With a depth of over 5,000feet—four hundred feet deeper thanGrand Canyon—this colossal defile is the second deepest canyon in the entireUnited States. Located east of Fresno in Sierra and Sequoia National Forests,the Kings is centrally located and equallyaccessible from the Los Angeles and San Francisco areas—and just 200 milesfrom San Jose! By the way, our two-daytrips not only leap and tumble throughtwo days of fabulous whitewater, theyalso allow time to relax, swim, play gamesand feast in our beautiful, rustic sandy-beach campground right on the banks ofthe majestic Kings.

Kings River Trip OptionsOne-Day Joy Ride One DayTake in an entire day (10 river miles) offabulous rafting, a hearty lunch, and, attrip’s end, refreshing beverages andsnacks.

Mega Joy Ride One Day, One NightWith this option you arrive at our basecamp between 7 P.M. and 11 P.M. theevening before your trip, relax into deepsleep under brilliant stars with thesounds of the majestic Kings Rivergliding past nearby, and then rise to athrilling day of magnificent rafting (10river miles), two incredible meals(breakfast and lunch prepared with loveand served with panache), plus beverages,snacks and farewell hugs at trips end.

Ride the Glide Two Days, One NightRide the Glide into two glorious days of

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whitewater voyagesCalifornia’s Leader in Whitewater Rafting Since 1975

California’s most popular rafting company, Whitewater Voyages guides trips on California’s finest rivers, including the Kern(just 21/2 hours from L.A.); the Kings, Tuolumne & Merced near Yosemite; the Yuba & Kaweah; and the South & Middle

Fork of the American (just 2 hours from the S.F. Bay Area).

Our trip was truly an amazing experience.Sleeping outside for the first time, getting toraft in an ecosystem that reflected SouthernCalifornia realities, hiking down to the hot

springs and relaxing after a long day onthe river....Simply amazing! –Rob Everett-Lower Kern

My family and I can’t stop raving about ourexperience and Whitewater Voayges. Your

staff on the Kings took excellent care of usand everything was just perfect the way itwas! Thanks to everyone from the time of

the inquiry and reservation to the last dayof our excursion!

–Dianne Hernandez

You couldn’t ask for better guides! The soft,gentle, connected professionalism cannot be

merely hired...it goes to their very essence. I’mcoming back. Thank you!

–Bill Maxfield

We are a high adventure scout troop that takesapproximately twenty trips a year and our

whitewater rafting trip has been the numberone outing the past several years. This year

was no exception as we again booked ourexcursion with Whitewater Voyages. Your

guides did an absolutely OUTSTANDINGjob and insured we had a safe but thrilling

experience.What a fabulous weekend andwonderful outing for our scouts. The

exhilaration was apparent as we traversed thechurning waters of the Limestone run on theUpper Kern. Due to the tremendous effortsof our guides, the scouts had an experience

they will remember for many years to come.We look forward to another adventure

outing with Whitewater Voyages next year!–Michael Devine

I wanted to say what a top notch staff youhave! Whether by luck, or fortune, you should

be proud of the people who are involved inyour business and share your passion for

adventure. I must say your staff isoutstanding! They conducted themselves with

utmost professionalism and made us feelsecure. Thank you again on behalf of everyone!

–Sean Anthony, Forks of the Kern

Our 2-day trip on the Lower Kern was justamazing! Our guides were knowledgeable and

personable. They really added to our experienceand made the trip even more fun. I tell every-

one I know to plan a trip because everyoneshould experience a Whitewater Voyage at least

once...chances are, they’ll get hooked! ThanksWhitewater Voyages!

–Amy

We just came back from a 1-day Kaweah trip,all 18 of us, and I have to say THANK YOU!!!

We had an absolutely exceptional timeand will definitely return to Whitewater Voyages.

I felt compelled to write to you to share howabsolutely impressed I was with our guides andthe entire team! I’m not sure how you do your

recruiting, but you clearly have a way of findingtop talent and I am thankful for that! I will

spread the word and refer people your way somore can share in this wonderful experience!

–Lisa Ashworth

800-400-RAFT www.WhitewaterVoyages.com

Photos by Hot Shot Imaging

Your rafting company is the BEST!! We havebeen rafting with WWV for about 8 years.Planning the trip couldn’t be easier, the ladiesin the office are really nice to work with. Ourtrip this year was fantastic!!! We haven’t surfedthat much in one trip ever! We would like tothank our guides for preparing wonderfulmeals and making this an experience we won’tforget! We will see you again next year andhopefully have a group of 30, remember someof us are a little out of control, so be ready!!!Again thanks to all!!!

–Jack and Geri Beggs-Lower Kern

My friends and I just finished the 2-day rivertrip on the Middle Fork American and it wasnothing short of spectacular! We had the timeof our lives! This trip just exceeded myexpectations in every way, from the actualrafting experience to the incredible meals, wehad a blast the entire time, whether we werehiking up to see gorgeous waterfalls, taking adip in the river or sharing stories around thecampfire at night.We so appreciate the hardwork the crew put in–from the crack of dawnuntil well after sundown.We have turned intoriver rafting addicts and we are alreadymaking plans for next year.We hope you areready for us!!

–Gina Van Der Vliet

I just took my first river rafting trip and itwas AWESOME! We went down the KingsRiver and Whitewater Voyages is the BEST~ Wekicked butt! I am so ready to do it again. Ithink I might be addicted! Love it and the staffwas friendly and took amazing care of us.Very professional and very experienced. Youguys rock!

–Christine Lobitz

Your guides made my trip so memorable! Icame into this scared and nervous but when theday ended I wanted more! It was an experienceI will never forget and I will come back to doit again next year! Put me on your mailing list.

–Jennifer Trinh

We took a rafting trip with the boy scoutsdown the American River and it waswonderful! Our guide made the whole trip somuch fun! My husband is an experiencedrafter and kayaker who has rafted all over thecountry and he agreed with me in saying ourguide and your company is the best! Justwanted you to know!

–Ruth Binden

We truly enjoyed our whitewater voyage! Thiswas our first experience and it could not havebeen better. My wife and I and our three children all came away with memories thatwe will cherish forever!

–Lee Austin

All 16 of us had a fabulous time!! Ourguides were terrific. I’ve been with you for thelast 20 years, so keep doing what you’re doing!See you next year!

–Brian McAdams

We’ve Got Water!

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Class III fun onSouth Fork American

River, California’smost popular

whitewater run.

north fork

south fork

1-800-400-RAFT

thereby starting the California gold rush.

Saturday night specialWant to raft just one day, but still experience the full River Park overniteadventure of abundant happy hour beverages, sumptuous hor d’oeuvres, lavishcamp dinner, campfire circle, camping underthe stars, breakfast, hanging out at the riverbeach, and having the full run of RiverPark? You can do this any Saturday nighteither after your Saturday one-day trip orbefore your Sunday one-day trip!

EXTRA MEAL OPTIONSFor groups of twenty or more, extra happyhours, dinners and breakfasts may bearranged. As always, advance reservationsrequired.

middle fork

South ForkAmericanMay-September ~ Class III+

Fun Run Express ~ 9 MilesOne Day Fun Run ~ 9-12 MilesTwo Day Fun Run ~ 20 Miles

Two-day trips normally start Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays.

Flowing down the western slope of theSierra Nevada Mountains just east ofSacramento, the South Fork Americanoffers a blend of relaxing calms andthrilling rapids. Moving first among big foothills and later through a steepgranite canyon, it initially struts out quick and strong, then yawns coylyserene, and finally, with seemingly littleforeplay, rushes in headlong climaxthrough the fabled American RiverGorge, where one rapid follows the nextin fast succession. In places, wildflowersblanket the shore. Six miles downstreamfrom Chili Bar, the river flows past thehistoric township of Coloma, whereJames Marshall discovered gold in 1848,

“Everything wasfantastic! The

guides, the SouthFork American

campground and thecooking! We’ll make

this our annual tripto celebrate our

anniversary and mybirthday!”

–Erin Volz, SouthFork American

“I just wanted to letthe team at

Whitewater Voyagesknow that the group

from Genentechthat rafted on the

South ForkAmerican had a

BLAST!!!! Oh mygosh... I can’t think

of when I’ve hadmore fun-it was

awesome! The guideswere outstanding,

the weather wasperfect and everyoneinvolved now has a

million stories toshare with friends

and family! Thanksso much for the great

day and hopefullysee you again next

year!”–Gina Adame

Includes FREE camping the night before & the night after your trip. Two-day trips normally start Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays.Other two-day starts may be arranged for groups of twelve or more.

middle ForkAmericanMay-October ~ Class III-IV ~17 MilesOne Day Blaster & Two Day Blaster

In the Mid-Sierra, rippling through adeep, wild, picturesque canyon in AuburnState Recreation Area, the Middle ForkAmerican offers class IV-V excitementinterspersed with more soothing stretches.At one point the entire river rages downa narrow class V cascade called TunnelChute and then breezes undergroundthrough a runnable 30-yard cavern. Nearthe end of the run, after Ruck-A-ChuckyRapid, where we line the rafts around ajumble of house-sized boulders, we run afinal rousing mile of invigorating class IIIand IV whitewater.

A great run for hardy, adventurous first timers and experienced rafters alike. All participants should be physically fit and able to swim.

South,middleand northfork combos2 Days

On the first day, raft the famous class IIIGorge or Nugget run of the South Fork,and, after spending the night in ourcommodious River Park AdventureCampground, on the second day brave theMiddle Fork American or the ChamberlainFalls run on the North Fork American.

For North Fork American see page 18.

Includes FREE camping the night before & the night after your trip.

Includes FREE camping the night before & the night after your trip.

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“Our entireexperience was

handled efficientlyand professionally!

The South ForkAmerican

campground wasfantastic and it wasa nice place to staythe night before andafter our trip! Still

can’t believe it isfree!”

–Richard &Sonja Kos

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MID~California

Our self-guided nature walk touches onthe human and natural history ofCalifornia and includes this paddlemancarving copied from ancient cave art.

15For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

For a full-size map and complete virtual photo tour of River ParkAdventure Campground, please visit whitewatervoyages.com.

Giant outdoor chess!

On our trips on the South ForkAmerican, adventure, friendship andgrowth inspire confidence and joy!

Kids able to relax knowing theirparents are entertained and stayingout of trouble.

Experience an improved sense ofwell being!

Hand-carved messages feed the mindand inspire the soul at River Park.

It is rumored that River Park inspiresheightened awareness.

River Park volleyball!!

Hunker Hawser: A game of balance andstrategy. Watch out! You may catch thebug and want to play it for hours!

Tournament-quality pool tables freefor your use!

All page 15 photos by Steve Beaudetexcept Hot Shot photo above

FREE CampingWe warmly invite you to camp

FREE at our fabulous adventurecampground the night before andthe night after your trip with us onthe South, Middle or North ForkAmerican or Yuba. Advancereservations required.

Located in the Sierra foothills inthe historic gold rush town ofColoma (near where Hwy 49 crossesthe South Fork) about 35 miles east of Sacramento, our 7-acre river beachcampground on the South Fork

Local AttractionsAs well as numerous nearby restaurants,our campground is within a few hun-dred yards of a night club with livemusic and dancing, and is one milefrom James Marshall Gold DiscoveryState Historic Park, where gold wasfirst discovered in California in 1848.The historic park has a museum withongoing films and guided tours, milesof great hiking trails, acres of gold rushartifacts, a duplicate of the original sawmill built by Marshall, and a workingblacksmith shop and other periodenterprises staffed by history-buff

American not only has a full arrayof creature comforts includingshowers, flush toilets, two gourmetcamp kitchens, a store and diningareas for groups big and small, it also features an incredible variety ofentertaining amenities such as pooltables, giant chess, volleyball, horseshoes, foosball, hunker hawser, aninspirational self-guided naturewalk, a slide-show amphitheater withterraced seating (where you can viewslides of you and your friendsrunning the rapids) and a wealth ofadventure games.

docents in period costume speaking inold west dialect.

South Fork Notice The South Fork of the American Riverin its natural state would not normallyhave sufficient flows during the summerseason to support rafting as it is knowntoday. Adequate flows for rafting resultfrom releases from hydroelectricfacilities located at Chili Bar and above.These releases are made for powergeneration and are not subject to thecontrol of the County of El Dorado orcommercial rafting companies.

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tuolumneMarch-October ~ Class IV (IV+ above 4000cfs) Tuolumne classic 1, 2, 21/2 & 3 Days Meral’s Pool to Ward’s Ferry ~ 18 Miles

10% off 2- and 3-Day Tuolumne trips April & May. No other discounts apply at this time.

A national treasure, a living jewel, theTuolumne (pronounced too-ALL-o-me)offers the finest in class IV whitewater ina canyon of pure wilderness. Clear andcool, fresh from its headwaters inYosemite National Park, the Tuolumnethunders through a grand succession ofboulder gardens and spectacular cascades.Voluptuously steep, plunging this wayand that, it moves in patterns that arefrolicsome, tangled and mesmerizing. Inwhat has been called “the most signifi-cant victory in the history of the Wildand Scenic Rivers System,” the designa-tion of National Wild and Scenic Riverwas bestowed by act of Congress in 1984on this idyllic stream. And richly deserv-ing it is: Between Meral’s Pool and Ward’sFerry bridge, no roads or other signs ofpresent-day civilization penetrate theTuolumne canyon. The place is aneden—of pristine beaches and campsitesrich in gold rush and Miwok Indian his-tory; of side-canyon water slides andswimming holes; of bald eagle, river otter, and ring-tailed cat; and of racy, intricatewhitewater including such rapids as

Sunderland’s Chute, Hackamack’s Hole,Ram’s Head, Grey’s Grindstone, Hell’sKitchen and the infamous Clavey Falls, a powerful class V drop around whichmany prudent souls choose to walk.

On our 2-, 21/2- and 3-day tripsthrough this wilderness mecca, we pushoff as into the forest primeval, with allgear aboard the rafts, severing for a timeall contact with the outside world. Andthe longer the better, for the longer tripsprovide more time to explore, socialize,dream, let one’s hair down, and trulyimbibe the full magic of the Tuolumne.Note: Whitewater Voyages operates tripson the Tuolumne under permit fromStanislaus National Forest, which restrictsthe river to two guided trips per day.Round trip shuttle is available betweenthe Tuolumne and the Modesto Airport.

Scenes from the Wild& Scenic Tuolumne.

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MID~California

TUOLUMNE FLOWSIn years with normal to low snowpack, releases from Hetch Hetchy typicallyprovide runnable flows seven days per week prior to July 1, and six days perweek—every day but Sunday—after July 1. As a result, trips starting on Sundaysafter July 1 may be 21/2 days, meet at 2pm, and, rather than raft the first day,briefly float to a beautiful river beach, where the group can swim, relax, enjoy a sumptuous happy hour and dinner, get to know one another, camp under thestars—and rise the next morning set for an incredible wilderness adventure. This also means that on 3-day trips launching on Saturdays after July 1, Sundaysare generally lay over days—perfect opportunities to unwind, soak in warm-water tributaries like the Clavey, and just do whatever people do in paradise.

“I enjoyed my trip

on the Tuolumne

so much that

I haven’t stopped

talking about it!

The crew, the river,

the camping,

the food and the

friendly staff

all served to make

it an excellent

first time! I look

forward to many

more future trips!”

–Lisa Brecher

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Optional Pass-Through Donation: OnTuolumne trips, a $1.25 per-person,per-day donation to the Toulumne RiverPreservation Trust may be added to yourtrip fare. If you choose not to make thiscontribution, please let us know when youbook your trip.

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The Wild & Scenic Tuolumne seen through along lens from half way up the canyon wall.

mercedLate April-early July ~ Class III-IVCranberry Gulch to Briceburg ~ 13 MilesYosemitc Wildwater 1 Day

Now a National Wild and Scenic River!Just west of Yosemite National Park, the Merced races through a prolongedand delightful succession of rollickingrapids and soothing calms. During thehigh water typical of May and early June, this is a place of exceptional wildwater, with swollen rapids exploding one into the next mile after mile aftermile. Later, during the lower flows of late June and July, the Merced is lessoverwhelming yet still intensely exciting.At any time, with any water level, this canyon, with its clear, sparkling water fresh from Sierra headwaters andsteep slopes covered in wild flowers, is an uplifting place to be.

During spring snow melt, which generally occurs in May and early June, the Merced is recommended forthose with good swimming ability and previous rafting experience.Thereafter, usually in late June and July, this is an excellent choice for both experienced rafters and daring, vigorous first-timers.

During high water, wetsuits are essential. These can be rented directlyfrom Whitewater Voyages.

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Class IV whitewater nirvana on the Tuolumne (above) and Merced (below). Our wonderful runs on both the Tuolumne and Merced are just minutes from the wondersof Yosemite National Park.

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For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

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Yuba WetsuitsIn the spring, wetsuits are essentialfor all sections of the Yuba. These can be rented directly fromWhitewater Voyages. Wetsuit gloves,plenty of warm clothes and, ifyou wish folding chairs for camp arerecommended. In July and August,on the other hand, wetsuits are generally not needed on the Yuba.

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north YubacomboApril-June ~ Class IV-VUnion Flat to Fiddle Creek ~ 19 Miles

This combo trip combines the UnionFlat run—which we run last—with theGoodyears Bar run to make dandy 2-daytrips for paddlers who want a warm upbefore tackling the class V challenge ofRosassco Ravine.

uppernorth YubaApril-June ~ Class VClass V Alive 1 DayUnion Flat Run ~ 8-10 Miles

Whipped foamy white, the North Yuba,from Union Flat to Goodyears Bar, wailsdown a tight riverbed of high drops andprecipitous boulder gardens. Highlightsinclude the wild tumult of Moss Canyonand the class V rigors of Rosassco Ravinejust above Goodyears Bar. An excellentclass V 1-day trip for fit, veteran paddlers. NOTE: Depending on water levels, wesometimes vary the itinerary of thesetrips by doing double Moss Canyons,double Rosasscos, or other options,including moving upstream to the class VWild Plum run. All participants mustpass a Class V Warm Up–see page 9.

yuba

“Our guides

were terrific!!

They handled the

customers with ease and

warmth. They were

attentive to each one of us

and celebrated every bit of

progress we made! Your

guides are unique outside

and in! I will recommend

your company to all

my rafting friends!”

–Jaclyn Hoiland

“How proud you must be

of your staff ! Every

person was more congenial

and helpful then the last!

From a birthday cake to

transportation to the

airport all was possible!

I’m impressed! We would,

have and will continue to

recommend Whitewater

Voyages to everyone we

share our memories with.

Everything was top

notch!”

–Jennier Oerding

After running Maytag Falls (the tail end ofwhich is just visible in the background), aWhitewater Voyages flotilla runs class IV Son of Maytag on the Lower North Yuba. This lovely river is ideal for both adventurousfirst-timers and veterans alike and is an easydrive from the San Francisco Area.

north YubaAn ideal spring paddle-rafting river close tothe San Francisco Bay Area, the clear, slen-der and sparkling North Yuba issues fromYuba Pass high in Tahoe National Forest toquicken down a narrow canyon of pound-ing rapids and great natural beauty. Lush,scented conifer forests adorn the steepcanyon walls, while willow, sycamore andalder snuggle against the glistening banks.

To preserve the North Yuba in a pris-tine and untrammeled state and to assureminimum contact between rafting parties,Tahoe National Forest restricts the numberof outfitters to three. We are proud anddelighted that, in 1985, in a bid prospectuscompetition open to all California out-fitters, Whitewater Voyages was selected torun the Yuba for many reasons—our longhistory of safe trips, professional guide-training standards, competitive prices, andoutstanding quality of service.

Lowernorth YubaApril-June ~ Class III-IVMaytag Whirl 1 DayGoodyears Bar to Fiddle Creek ~ 9 Miles

Shangri-La 2 DayGoodyears Bar to Fiddle Creek ~ 18 Miles

A substantial step up from the SouthFork American, the dashing, nearly continuous whitewater of the LowerNorth Yuba makes an excellent choice foradventurous first-timers and experiencedrafters alike. Here the lithe and sensualYuba undulates through vigorous,dazzling rapids. An especially spectacular feature of this run is Maytag, a class Vcataract just upstream from Fiddle Creekaround which many choose to walk.

A great benefit of our two-day trip,besides the famous campfire cuisine andother rustic pleasures of our lovely Yubacamp, is the opportunity to experience thisfabulous run twice. Because the first day issuch a blur, it is only on the second daythat you begin to deeply take in andremember this truly amazing river.

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Note: All Yuba pricesinclude free campingat our South ForkAmerican campgroundthe night before andthe night after yourtrip—see page 15.

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north fork

north forkAmericanApril-June ~ Class IV+Thriller 1 DayChamberlain Falls Run ~ 9-11 Miles

One of the loveliest rivers of the Sierra, the North Fork American carves a deep, sheer gorge which plunges like a wonderful cleavage down the western slope of the Sierra.The water sparkles like liquid diamonds, and the stream bed is sensually intimate—at times just wideenough for the rafts. Throughout the first 5 miles the class IV rapids are continuous and erupt in climax after climax. Thereafter, the river ambles through mild class II-III rapidsfor a soothing, scenic conclusion.

Participants must be physically fit,energetic, rugged—and have strong swimming ability and previous paddlerafting experience. Wetsuits are essential;these may be rented directly fromWhitewater Voyages.

Prices include FREE camping the night beforeand the night after your trip.

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WhitewaterGUIDESchoolsmini school: kern &AMERICAN 21/4 Day Introduction to Guiding

april kern school51/4 Day Intensive Guide School

june AMERICAN school51/4 Day Intensive Guide School

seven-day schoolOn some combination of the following rivers:American, Tuolumne, Merced, Kern, Kings & Yuba

These intensive, world-renowned coursesemphasize hands on practice in asupportive environment wonderfullyoverflowing with adventure, friendshipand growth. Inspired by the philosophy ofauthor and rafting pioneer Bill McGinnis,these schools encompass not only thefundamental skills of reading whitewaterand maneuvering boats, they also coverknot tying, raft rigging, signals, safetyput-in talks, class V safety techniques,equipment maintenance and repair,wilderness cookery, menu planning, riverconservation, and the finer points ofcreating safe, enjoyable river trips. Inaddition, a full range of state-of-the-artwhitewater emergency and rescueprocedures are covered, including:unwrapping rafts, flipped-raft drills, useof flip lines and toss bags, swimmingholes and rapids, swimming in and out ofeddies, foot-entrapment rescue, swift-watercrossings, line-crossing options, tyroleanrescue systems, Telfer-lower rescues,z-pulley and piggyback tensioning systems, helicopter rescue, hypothermia prevention

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To provide time to set up your tent and get situated well beforehand, we recommend that you arrive, if possible,about 4pm.

On schools, all meals from breakfaston day 1 to lunch on the last day areincluded—except, on some schools, oneDutch-treat road dinner bought enroutewhile the group travels to a second river.

and treatment, the use of a complete firstaid kit with emphasis on river-relatedinjuries and problems, and guiding andsupporting people in stressful situations.Accepted by the Bureau of LandManagement, Tahoe National Forest andthe government of British Columbia asapproved whitewater rescue courses, theseschools are widely recognized as excellentpreparation for both commercial guidingand rafting on one’s own.

When conditions permit, we take along“UFO” (uninstructed floating object)boats, in which students can raft on theirown, free for a time of the gentle butdistinct pressure of having an instructor inthe same boat. When balanced withperiods of careful instruction, these solosessions can be quite valuable in helpingthe novice put concepts into practice.

Wetsuits are essential on the springschools. Due to vicissitudes of flow andother variables, the rivers on which weteach are subject to change. Werecommend that prior to these schoolsparticipants take courses in first aid andCPR and also that they read everythingthey can find pertaining to river running.Students in all of our schools, by the way,receive complimentary copies of the The Guide’s Guide Augmented: Reflections onGuiding Professional River Trips, The Class VBriefing and The Whitewater Voyages Guide SchoolHandbook (the latter is the size of a phonebook), which provide a motherlode ofinformation about guiding smooth, safe,professional, and above all, entertainingriver trips (see page 21).NOTES: All schools begin with an after-dinner orientation meeting startingat 6:00pm. Although light snacks areprovided during the meeting, the schoolmeals begin with breakfast the followingmorning. So please plan to eat dinner on your own before our 6:00pm meeting!

w h i t e wat er v o ya ge s

guide Schools

Top left: A Whitewater Voyages innovation,skills boards help our students get a solidgrip on river rescue skills. At left: Our guideschool instructors are supportive, caring anduncannily perceptive. Our philosophy:People learn best--and have more fun---in anatmosphere flowing with positive strokes andcaring support.

“I'm most honored

to have had the

chance to be with such

dedicated, experienced

guides on your

whitewater school.

Back at work,

my mind wanders

constantly to images

of the past week,

where I literally

soaked it all in.

It's hard to believe

I was in school...

more like a vacation!”

–Sean Morris

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For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

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improve, we rarely cancel a trip due to rain.Wool hat (or synchilla, polarplus, etc.).Wetsuit—depending on weather, wetsuitsmay be required on all rivers through Mayand year round on class V rivers. Wetsuits maybe rented directly from Whitewater Voyages.NOTE: Rental wetsuits do not include booties,which do not hold up under rental conditions.Trip members renting wetsuits should bringtheir own booties or lace-on tennis shoes withthick wool socks. If rain or cold weather is apossibility, bring extra wool, capilene, or pileclothing and a windbreaker to wear over thewetsuit. Cloth shorts worn over wetsuits makeyou less slippery and help you stay in the raft.

Longer TripsIn addition to the items listed above,bring the following Essential items:Sleeping bag, air mattress or foam pad.These can be rented from WhitewaterVoyages on most rivers.Flashlight with extra bulb and batteries.Pants and shirt.Camp shoes and socks for hiking/loafing.Tent—compact tent in case of rain.These can be rented from WhitewaterVoyages for most rivers.Insect repellent.

OptionalWaterproof camera.Extra optical glasses with head strap orextra contact lenses if worn.Fishing gear—light fly or spinning gearwhich disassembles into a compact protective case is best. Licenses required.Beer or cocktails welcome (in moderation)for camp. Because your safety is ourprimary concern, we ask that you do notdrink alcoholic beverages on the morningof a trip or while on the river.No radios or firearms please.NOTE: Whitewater Voyages cannot assumeresponsibility for personal gear that mightbe lost or stolen during or after trips. Please leave valuables at home.

medical condition alert:bring your ownmedicationOur staff is prepared to provide basic firstaid, but we are prohibited by law fromproviding—and we are not trained toadminister—medications or advancedmedical care. So, all clients with medicalconditions such as susceptibility toanaphylactic shock from bee stings, etc.,should bring—and keep handy andinform their guide(s) about—their own

gear list, etc.

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medication/anaphylactic kit.We recommend trip insurance.Bring plenty of warm clothes, but otherwise,remember: pack lightly—keep the boatsmaneuverable!

ImportantInformationRegarding size, medicalcondition, pregnancy,and ability to under-stand instructionsEach participant must fit into one ofour lifejackets with all buckles fastened.Our lifejackets fit a maximum torso circumference of 52 inches.

People with a history of heart trouble,asthma, epilepsy, allergy to bee stings, or any other potentially serious medicalcondition should consult their doctorbefore coming on a rafting trip.

For safety and liability reasons, weadvise pregnant women not to participatein any of our activities. For safety reasonson class IV and V, all participants mustbe able to understand our safety talkand guide’s instructions, which are normallydelivered in English. On class III and easierrivers, non-English speakers are most welcomeand, unless other arrangements are made,must bring an interpreter.

Photographic ReleaseWhitewater Voyages reserves the right totake photographic or film records of anyWhitewater Voyages tour, program, orriver trip, and each trip member agreesthat Whitewater Voyages may use suchphotographic or film records for promo-tional and/or commercial purposes.

Equal OpportunityWhitewater Voyages is an equal opportunity outfitter providing employmentand services on a non-discriminatory basis.In accordance with Federal law and U.S.Department of Agriculture policy, thisinstitution is prohibited from discriminatingon the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,age or disability. (Not all prohibited basesapply to all programs.) To file a complaint ofdiscrimination: write USDA, Director, Officeof Civil Rights, Room 326-W , WhittenBuilding, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW ,Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call(202)720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDAis an equal opportunity provider andemployer.

what tobringOn most of our overnight trips, eithereveryone parks near camp or the overnightgear is transported to camp by vehicle, soyou can take not only the essentials, but alsosome extras, such as folding chairs! Theserivers include: the Lower Kern, Kaweah,Kings, South Fork American and the Yuba.

On our other trips, all overnight gear iscarried downriver on the boats. In order tokeep the boats light and maneuverable, pleasepack lightly and compactly.Note: Always bring plenty of warm clothesand (if weather dictates) rain gear, butotherwise please bring as little as possible.These “pack-light and compact” wildernessruns include: the Forks of the Kern,Tuolumne and Middle Fork American.

On these wilderness runs we providecompact waterproof bags for your gear. Forall trips, it is a good idea to keep yourovernight gear in a duffel bag.

One Day TripsSwim suit or shorts.Protective footwear: tennis shoes whichlace tight, wetsuit booties, or rugged sandals which securely strap on such asChacos or Keens. Bare feet or thongs are not safe on the river.Secure headstraps for sunglasses or eye-glasses—if worn.Sunblock cream. Plan to use plenty ofsun cream (with a high SPF #) on exposed skin, but don’t put sun screen on your forehead, or waves will wash it down into your eyes. Protect your forehead with a sun hat(with chin strap) or visor. Plastic water bottle filled with drinkingwater—we have jugs on the rafts to refill. Change of clothes for the drive home.A magnetic hide-a-key box under yourcar makes a good place to hide your car key while you’re on the river.In addition, in spring or fall, on class V, or ifrain or cool weather are a possibility, bring:Plenty of warm clothes made of synchilla,polarplus, wool, fleece, capilene and similarmaterials which insulate well even whendamp, & paddling gloves (optional).NOTE: Cotton when wet does not provideinsulation. In hot weather cotton is fine, but incool or cold weather it will make you colder!Waterproof paddle jacket, windbreaker, or rain suit. Because conditions usually

books The Guide’s Guide augmented:Reflections on Guiding Professional River TripsBy William McGinnisWhitewater Voyages, 2005, 316 pages,$40.88 (includes tax and shipping) Quantityprices available.

The definitive–and only–how-to book onprofessional river guiding, The Guide’s GuideAugmented presents a comprehensive philosophyand a wealth of detailed methods for creating“Deep Fun:” LIfe enhancing river trips whichentertain, inspire, educate, thrill, heal &delight! Used by guides, outfitters and tripleaders worldwide, The Guide’s GuideAugmented covers every aspects of the multifac-eted art of river guiding: People, leadershipand conflict-resolution skills; all aspects of aguide’s role in creating fun, uplifting, learning-filled trips; safety talks; guide training; signals;knots; high-water safety; swiftwater rescue;emergency evacuation & coping with accidents;minimizing liability; expedition food planning;nature interpretation made fascinating; boat-loads of hilarious river, land & bus gameswhich really bring people together; and much,much more!!

At 316 pages, The Guide’s GuideAugmented includes a completely updated ver-sion of the original 1981, 140-page Guide’sGuide contents, plus a wealth of new material.Some of our guides think we’re crazy to sellThe Guide’s Guide and crazier still to sellThe Guide’s Guide Augmented because they fellthese books give away our trade secrets, ourcompetitive edge, the philosophy and methodswhich distinguish the trips of WhitewaterVoyages from those of other outfitters. I reallybelieve, however, that the safer and better allrafting trips and outdoor recreation experi-ences, the better for all of us. The more peoplewho return home in one piece, thrilled anddelighted with their river trip or outdoor out-ing, the more river rafting and outdoor recre-ation in general will be seen as a great thing todo and the more all outfitters, the recreatingpublic and our rivers, forests and other recre-ation resources will benefit.

It is my hope that The Guide’s GuideAugmented will be helpful, even inspirational, toguides, trip leaders, outfitters, governmentagency river and recreation managers, privateboaters and adventure travel companies of allsorts. Any individual, company or group whichpractices the philosophy and methods present-ed in this book is welcome to consider TheGuide’s Guide Augmented their own staff man-ual. Although the myriad users of this bookare independent, far flung adventurers, guides,private boaters, outfitters, tour operators andrecreation resource managers, at the very sametime, ideally, we are all working together toenhance the quality of life on–and win friendsfor–this planet! The highest purpose of thisbook is to contribute to this broad, growing,wonderful effort–which is, after all, an ongoing

outlet

quest of planet-saving proportions.–Bill McGinnis

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Comments on The Guide’s Guide Augmentedand William McGinnis’ writing in general:

“The Guide’s Guide .. is.. every bit as absorbing,instructive and entertaining as William McGinnis’(first book) Whitewater Rafting. If you are orwish to be a river rafting trip leader, this guideis a must. ... the lucid writing intrigued meword for word from beginning to end.”

–George Larson, Sierra Club

“Great stuff ! I’m constantly impressed with theamount of thought and energy WilliamMcGinnis puts into the finer points of guiding.”

–Bruce Lessels, Zoar Outdoor

“William McGinnis is .. utterly remarkable.. and..by far the most gifted writer I am aware of atcapturing the heart and soul–the very essence ofa whitewater river experience. ... His extraordinarygift so much in evidence in his twenties has con-tinued to deepen and mature. ... For his contri-bution to my life, to all those other boaters andto this sport for which I have an enduring pas-sion, I wish to thank him.”

–George Brown

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A Few Excerpts from The Guide’s Guide Augmented: A river journey with caring, well-trained guides is muchmore than just a physical movement from put-in to take-out, it is a journey from fear to confidence to joy; frombeing a stranger to being known and feeling bonded withone’s boat mates; from feeling perhaps scattered and self-critical inside to feeling perhaps more self-accepting, morewhole, more fully alive–and, as an extra plus, it is ajourney from feeling cut off from the natural world tofeeling connected with and truly amazed and delighted bythe magic of our planet. In short, a well-guided river tripis a voyage into deep fun.

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The goal is to include, accept and appreciate—and to sendthe message that everyone is truly OK, great and wonder-ful—just as they are right now! This is one of the mosthealing of all messages—and puts the group on the pathto deep fun!

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Answer all questions with thoroughness, care and appreci-ation. Realize that your caring answer can turn anyquestion into a good question and can send the messagethat here, in this boat, it is okay and safe to know whatyou know, okay and safe to not know what you do notknow, and okay and safe to be open and unguarded.

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Alluvial Listening: Listening to someone without judg-ment or criticism and attending so closely that you canrepeat back in your own words what is said. Attentive,

caring listening is a living, guiding and leadership skill offundamental importance, and this sort of focused,non-judgmental listening may be one of the greatest, most healing gifts any human being can give another.

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Fully enter into the experience ofeach trip. Be present. If you findyourself thinking about somethingor somewhere else, invite yourattention back into the momentby asking yourself, “How canI enhance my experience—andthe experience of the people I amwith—right now?”

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If you can say how you feel to at least one otherperson, it can free you to feel something new.

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T-shirts & PostersAwesome T-shirts ~ $13 to $25Sweatshirts ~ $30 eachColorful Posters ~ $5 eachFabulous Hats ~ $16 each

Wetsuit RentalsOur wetsuits make spring and fallrafting truly comfortable and fun!See our website for completedetails.

the class v briefingBy William McGinnis and theWhitewater Voyages Staff

Whitewater Voyages, 1985, 29 pages,$6.65 (includes tax and shipping)

The Class V Briefing is adistillation of the rowing andpaddle captaining techniquesdeveloped by the guides ofWhitewater Voyages whileexploring and guiding trips onextremely difficult rivers. To quoteone reviewer: “This little guide doesan excellent job summing up the stepsnecessary to tackle class V whitewater assafely as possible.”

river signalsBy William McGinnis

Whitewater Voyages, 2001, 31 pages, $7.68(includes tax and shipping)

The signals in this little book can enhancecooperation and good will within and betweenboating groups, and help make river journeys ofall types safer, smoother and more fun. Richlyillustrated with over one hundred line drawings.

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original reservation, an additional fee of $25 per person per transfer will becharged. No transfers after final payment.

Returned ChecksWe charge $25 for all returned checks.

Non-PerformanceWe almost always follow through with ourplans. However, we reserve the right tocancel a trip or make changes in itinerary ifnecessary due to weather conditions, waterfluctuations, or other factors beyond ourcontrol. Outright cancellation is unlikely,but if we are forced to cancel your trip, youmay choose between: 1) an alternate,comparable river itinerary, or 2) a 100%Whitewater Voyages credit.

In such cases, credits will be limited to the amounts actually paid to WhitewaterVoyages and shall not be extended to coverany other costs incurred by the trip member.

Liability and SafetyWe make every effort to provide you the finest, most fun-filled trip possible. Ourstaff will give instructions before each tripand it is important that you listen and do as they say. You will assumeresponsibility for many decisions affecting your safety during this trip. Theseactivities can be physically demanding withinherent elements of risk and danger beyondour control. We do not assume liability for personalinjury or deaths.

You must sign a release form and go at your own risk. We offer trips requiringvarious degrees of fitness. We are notqualified to evaluate your fitness so you mustevaluate your fitness as appropriate for anygiven trip. If you are overweight, or in poorphysical condition, you should consult withyour physician before the trip.

Please leave valuables at home. We cannotassume responsibility for your possessions orfor vehicles (and their contents) parkedduring the trip.

MINORSMinors under 18 not accompanied by theirparent must bring to the river a release formsigned by their parent or legal guardian.Adults accompanying minors must also signthe release as a verification of theparent/guardian signature.

Youth/senior pricesAll prices for youths 16 and under andseniors 65 and older are 90% of the adultprices.

Also, please tell us the number of childrenand petite people in your group so we canplan to have enough small-size life jackets,and when appropriate, a “Big Cheese ofFun” to provide extra entertainment forkids.

DISCOUNTS Discount must be mentioned at the timeof booking-no retroactive discounts.Only one discount per person. Somerestrictions apply. See “Super Deals”on page 3.

CancellationsPlease understand that when a reservationis made with Whitewater Voyages it is acommitment for us to hold space for youand possibly turn others away from thatparticular trip date. If you decide to cancel, it can be difficult for us to rebooka trip, especially trip cancellations closeto the departure date. With this in mind,we must be firm in adhering to the following cancellation/refund policy.

No cash refunds. If you must cancel,you will receive a credit for future White-water Voyages trips as follows: If you cancelat least 60 days before the trip: 90% tripcredit. At least 30 days before: 50% tripcredit. At least 10 days before: 20% tripcredit. Less than 10 days before: 10% tripcredit provided we receive notice before5:00pm the weekday before the trip. No credit for no shows and cancellationsreceived after 5:00pm the last weekdaybefore the trip. There are no exceptions tothese terms. You may, however, substituteanother person with no penalty. We regretwe cannot make exceptions for personalemergencies or illness. For this reason weurge our guests to purchase trip cancellationinsurance when making reservations.

Trip CancellationInsuranceWe strongly recommend investing in this affordable coverage, which providesaccident, illness, baggage, and trip cancellation protection. We will provideyou with a form in your trip packet.

About Trip prices All prices are subject to an additionalcharge of 3% to 7% for land and government river use fees. Prices and pricing policies are subject to change.

Transfer FeeIf you choose to switch from one river to another after we have processed your

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ReservationsMake Reservations Early! Follow these 4 steps to book your trip: First: Call toreserve your space(s). Second: Send inyour initial payment or call us with yourVisa, MasterCard, Discover or AmericanExpress card number. Third: Send orcall in your final payment to reach us atleast 30 days before your trip. fourth:

Have a fabulous voyage! Details: Initialpayment requirements: 50% for tripsunder $100 per person. $75 per personfor trips under $250 per person. $125per person for trips $250 or more. Whenyou book your reservation within 60 daysof a trip, full payment is due at that timein order to secure the spaces. When wereceive your initial payment, we willsend your trip registration packet whichincludes: rendezvous and travel informa-tion, river gear rental information, releaseform(s), gear list and trip cancellationinsurance form.

Because space is limited, and sometrips fill far in advance, it is best to makereservations as early as possible. However,if you should wish to join a trip onshort notice, please give us a call, forthere may be an opening.

If your plans change before you sendin your inital payment, we would greatlyappreciate a call letting us know as soon aspossible so we can offer the space to others.Important! Please Read: When sendingus checks and correspondence, on eachcheck and letter please write reservationnumber and/or the river and trip date(s).And if your reservation isn’t in your name,the name of your group leader/organizer.

Important infoWhitewater Voyages5225 San Pablo Dam RoadEl Sobrante, California 94803-3309phone 510 222-5994fax 510 758-7238e-mail: fun@whitewatervoyages.comweb site: www.whitewatervoyages.com

1-800-400-RAFT

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1-800-400-RAFT

It's Your Choice!You can either reserve your trip by callingus toll free (it is, after all, nice to haveyour questions answered on the spot by an actual caring human being–and we like the contact) or you can go online tobook reservations and print complete tripregistration packets (with travel directions,gear list and rental information, releaseforms, and trip cancellation insuranceinfo) at whitewatervoyages.com.

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Whitewater Voyages river trips lift offand soar with positive energy. Wewelcome, accept, appreciate, andcelebrate each and every humansoul—we’re talking about you, dearreader! Adventure, friendship, andgrowth—as well as fun, joy, optimism,and a deliciously wonderful sense ofwell being—flow forth as we exploreand embrace the infinite potentialwithin each of us. This, we feel, issomething America, the world, andeach of us as individuals need nowmore than ever.As a way of saying more about theWhitewater Voyages buoyancy of spirit andlife affirming path, here are a few excerptsfrom our staff manual The Guide’s GuideAugmented:*

River Games:–River Shaman: A great game to play in thecourse of a river trip! First, select theshaman in such a way that no one knows theshaman’s identity: For instance, count out astack of cards (including a joker) with thesame number of cards as the total numberof people in the group, and go aroundshowing a different card to each personwithout anyone else seeing them. Theperson who gets the joker is the shaman.Then, the shaman, unobtrusively, one at atime, as opportunities present themselves inthe natural course of the trip, reveals him orherself to the other trip members andassigns them a “totem.”Totems can beanything at all including a bear, eagle,salmon, book, rock, bus, mountain, river,historical figure, great Indian chief, or anynatural, man-made or imaginary object orconcept what-so-ever. After waiting enoughtime to conceal the identity of theshaman—and at a time when the wholegroup is present—each person acts out theirtotem (and gives subtle hints if necessary)until the others guess what it is.Meanwhile, everyone who has not yet beenassigned their totem tries to figure out whothe shaman is. To give the shaman a fairchance, no one can say out loud or hint whothey think the shaman is. Instead they maysimply say, without indicating whom, thatthey think they know the shaman’s identity.Whenever two trip members are ready toguess the shaman’s identity, with the entiregroup present, they each first count to three,and then, on the count of four, silently,simultaneously point at who they think the shaman is. If both point at the true shaman,they both win. If the guessers point atdifferent people, or at someone who is notthe shaman, they stay in the game, and indue course get assigned and act out their

3) What do trees and plants do that isabsolutely vital to the survival of animalsand humans? (In addition to creating wood,food, shade, beauty, soil and habitat, andpreventing soil erosion, they–and this is theindispensable part–absorb carbon dioxideand give off oxygen. Without trees andplants, there would be no oxygen and, hence,no animals or humans.) 4) Who knows why afternoon winds tend toblow up river? (Warm air rises.) 5) There are four fundamental causes ofrapids. Anyone want to guess what these are?(Steepness, roughness, and constriction ofthe river channel, and sheer water volume.Each of these factors singly or in anycombination can cause rapids.)6) Rivers are rated on a difficulty scale thatgoes from 1 to 6. What is the difficultyrating of the river we will run/we ran today? 7) What foods are enjoyed by both bearsand humans? (Fish, berries, honey.)8) Water which bubbles up out of the earthin natural hot springs has been undergroundhow long? (2,000 to 4,000 years.)9) Are there more bald eagles alive todaythan were alive 50 years ago? (Yes! Fiftyyears ago bald eagles were an endangeredspecies, and today they are thriving!)10) Is it safe to drink directly from the river?(No, protozoa giardia spread mainly bybeaver have made all unfiltered surface waterin North America unsafe to drink. Whenproperly filtered, however, it is safe.)11) What is the nautical name for the frontof a boat? (The bow.) The back of a boat?(The stern.) The cross tubes in the middleof a boat? (Thwarts.) The little door-likedevice we open to inflate a boat, and closeto keep it pumped up? (The valve.) 12) What do guides call it when they worktheir way around an under-inflated boatpumping just enough air into each chamberto make the pressure drum tight? (Toppingoff.)13) How many separate air chambers does ahigh quality inflatable boat have? (Countingthe four perimeter tube chambers, the floor,and the thwarts, 8 or 9. Are these boatsunsinkable or what?)14) How can you tell if your life jacket istight enough? (With all snaps fastened andstraps pulled snug, it should be tight enoughso that when you pull up on it, it stays putand will not slide up your chest–and youshould still be able to breathe comfortably.)15) Name the parts of a paddle? [The blade,the shaft, the throat (where the shaft meetsthe throat), and the grip (or T-grip).] 16) When you hold your paddle to takestrokes, where should you grip it: (Inboardhand on the top of the T-grip, outboardhand well down the shaft.)17) If your guide yells, “High side!” whatshould you do? (Jump to the downstreamside of the boat.)

totems, but they can no longer guess or hintat the shaman’s identity. The shaman wins ifshe or he can assign totems to everyonewithout being revealed. And, of course, inthe big picture, everyone wins by having theexperience of participating in thismultifaceted game of group improvisationand suspense. –Nature Diagram: A truly great game thatcan be played in any outdoor setting bypeople of any age, nature diagram greatlyheightens people’s awareness of the naturalworld. Beforehand, gather a dozen or soitems such as leaves, stones, twigs andflowers from the immediate area and arrangethem in some sort of diagram or patternabout six inches by six inches. It isimportant that all of the items be fairlycommon within, say, a 100 foot radius ofthe diagram. The diagram is then covered bya shirt or handkerchief. Then divide thegroup into teams of 3 to 5 people each andgather the teams close around the concealeddiagram. Explain that the diagram will beuncovered for just 20 seconds, and then willbe hidden again under the cloth. Alsoexplain that all of the items in the diagramcan be found within a 100 foot radius, andthat each team will have a total of 5 minutes(with a 3-minute and a 4-minute whistleblast warning) to gather as many of thediagram items as possible and to arrangethem into a similar diagram near theoriginal. After making these announcements,give the teams a minute to plan strategiesbefore unveiling the diagram for 20 secondsand sending them off to build their own.The team whose diagram most closelymatches the original, which is uncovered atthe end for comparison, wins. –Sunrise Roulette: Solidly embed the bladeof a paddle in the ground about a foot deepwith the shaft vertical in a place that willcatch the direct rays of the rising sun. In theevening sometime after sunset, each personpredicts where the sun will come up the nextmorning by making their mark or placingtheir token where they think the paddle’sshadow will fall at the moment of sunrise.A similar game can be played by guessing thehigh water line each night.

Bus Games—Make shuttles fun!–Natural History Quiz: Call out questionsabout natural and human history, and rewardanswers with a group applause or a tokengift such as a refrigerator magnet or piece ofwrapped candy.1) Who knows what force makes rivers flowdownhill? (Gravity.) 2) Where does the water in this river comefrom? (From springs, rain, lakes and meltingsnow upstream, which come from clouds,which are created by evaporation from theoceans, which are fed by, yes, rivers!)

w h i t e wat er v o ya ge s

LIFT OFF & SOAR

For Trip Prices See: www.whitewatervoyages.com

whitewatervoyages

Whitewater Voyages5225 San Pablo Dam RoadEl Sobrante, California 94803-3309phone 510 222-5994fax 510 758-7238e-mail: fun@whitewatervoyages.comvisit our web site: www.whitewatervoyages.com

Call us! 1-800-400-RAFT

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

P A I DPermit #688

Redwood City, CA

Whitewater Voyages for

many, many years has been

and remains California’s

largest, most experienced

outfitter, not just because

we run so many wonderful

rivers, but also because our

staff of caring professionals

is truly dedicated to making

each and every trip the

finest possible.

Super Deals & Cool Facts*• 15% OFF for groups of 12 or more

and every 12th person floats FREE! Our FREE Group Kits make organizing groupssuper easy!

• FREE CAMPING & ACCOMMODA- TION DISCOUNTS Near All of OurRivers! See page 3.

• 20% OFF for Same-Year RepeatRafters

• 50% Weekday Family Discounts • 15% OFF Super Low Holiday

Weekend Specials • Youth & Senior Discounts • With Whitewater Voyages you get the

best possible trip at a great price!

* See page 3 inside for details.

Written by Bill McGinnis. Copy editors: Brian Mauer, Sue Mooney, Kay Vallis, Wanda Coughlin & Sheri Cole. ©2010 Whitewater Voyages. Printed in Hong Kong. Front cover photos: Vita Boating Photography, Sierra Images Photography,Lotus Photography, Picture This…Imagine That & Hotshot Imaging. Back cover photo: Sierra Images Photography. Assistant photo editors: Aly McGinnis, Will McGinnis DDR & Beverly Mayer. Prices and policies subject to change.

We’ve Got Water!Regardless of snowpack, withWhitewater Voyages you areassured of great rafting flows dueto historic flow agreements, largeupstream reservoirs and ourunsurpassed family of rivers.

Befriend us please:WhitewaterVoyages.com/friends &Facebook.com/WhitewaterVoyages

California’s Leader in Whitewater Rafting Since 1975

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Trip * ** Trip * ** Min.Start Youth Group Start Youth Group Age

LOWER KERN Mon-Thurs $319 $287 $271 Sat $399 $359 ◊

Fri $349 $314 $296 Sun $319 $287 $271Sat $169 $152 ◊

Mon-Fri $149 $134 $126 Sun $169 $152 $143Sat $119 $107 ◊

Mon-Fri $99 $89 $84 Sun $119 $107 $101Sat $199 $179 ◊

Mon-Fri $179 $161 $152 Sun $199 $179 $169UPPER KERN

Mon-Thurs $99 $89 $84 Sat $129 $116 $109Fri $109 $98 $92 Sun $109 $98 $92

Snap, Crackle & Pop, 1-Day Sun-Fri $149 $134 $126 Sat $179 $161 $152Thunder Run (Class V), 1-Day Sun-Fri $199 $179 $169 Sat $219 $197 $186 Class V Warm-up required--see page 9.

FORKS OF KERN

Wilderness Juggernaut, 2-Day All Days $719 $647 $611Wilderness Juggernaut, 3-Day All Days $899 $809 $764

KAWEAHSat $159 $143 $135

Mon-Fri $139 $125 $118 Sun $149 $134 $126Sequoia Getaway, 2-Day Sun-Fri $299 $269 $254 Sat $329 $296 $279

KINGS Kings trips: FREE wet suit usage!

Joy Ride, 1-Day Sun-Fri $129 $116 $109 Sat $149 $134 $126Mega Joy Ride, 1-Day, 1-Night Sun-Fri $149 $134 $126 Sat $169 $152 $143Ride the Glide, 2-Day, 1-Night Sun-Fri $279 $251 $237 Sat $299 $269 $254Ultra Mega Ride the Glide, 2-Day, 2-Night Sun-Fri $299 $269 $254 Sat $319 $287 $271

SOUTH FORK AMERICAN

South Fork Fun Run, Express Sun-Fri $105 $94 $89 Sat n/a n/a n/aSouth Fork Fun Run, 1-Day Sun-Fri $120 $108 $102 Sat $135 $121 $114South Fork Fun Run, 2-Day Sun-Fri $265 $238 $225 Sat $295 $265 $250Saturday Night Special, 1-Day, 1 Night Sun $170 $153 $144 Sat $185 $166 $157South / Middle Combo Sun-Thurs $295 $265 $250 Fri, Sat $325 $292 $276South / North Combo Sun-Thurs $295 $265 $250 Fri, Sat $315 $283 $267

MIDDLE FORK AMERICANSat $165 $148 $140

Mon-Fri $135 $121 $114 Sun $150 $135 $127Middle Fork Blaster Blaster, 2-Day Sun-Fri $295 $265 $250 Sat $325 $292 $276

NORTH FORK AMERICANSat $155 $139 $131

Mon-Fri $135 $121 $114 Sun $140 $126 $119 14 Deep, sheer, plunging IV+ gorge.TUOLUMNE

Tuolumne Classic, 1-Day Mon-Fri $219 $197 $186 Sat, Sun $229 $206 $194Tuolumne Classic, 2-Day Sun-Thurs $419 $377 $356 Fri, Sat $439 $395 $373Tuolumne Classic, 21/2 Day All Days $529 $476 $449Tuolumne Classic, 3-Day All Days $549 $494 $466

MERCED

Yosemite Wildwater, 1-Day Mon-Fri $139 $125 $118 Sat, Sun $159 $143 $135YUBA

Maytag Whirl, 1-Day Sun-Fri $139 $125 $118 Sat $159 $143 $135

GUIDE SCHOOL (Min. Age 16)

Kern Trips: Frandy Park (independently-owned) charges a fee for parking ($5 per day/per vehicle)

* Youth discount applies to persons 16 years & under.

Sat

Full Fare

Full Fare

Southern California's most popular river. Ideal for first timers & veterans. Flows all summer.

Approx. 3 hours from Los Angeles.

◊ Saturday Lower Kern trip discounts are limited to the 10% Youth/Senior

discounts.

$269 $254

** Group discount applies to groups of 12 or more--in addition to the 15% discount, every 12th person in group rafts FREE. Call for a free group kit.

$299 $287 $271$319

WHITEWATER VOYAGES ~ 2010 TRIP PRICING

Middle & North Fork trips include FREE camping at our River Park Campground.

12

6

Sat

$262

10Southern Sierra Escape, 2-Day

16$135

12

Sat

Please note: Discounts cannot be combined…only one discount applicable per person

9

Overnight trips luxuriate in a wooded, rustic camp.

Rollicking Wild & Scenic whitewater just 20 minutes from Yosemite Valley.

A favorite class IV Wild & Scenic whitewater adventure through pristine wilderness.

$309

Jungle Run, 1-Day

Jungle Run, 1/2-Day

Big Water Run, 1-Day

The ultimate wilderness whitewater adventure. Class V Warm-up required--see page 9.

12

$278

16

Ideal whitewater fun for families & people of all ages. Overnight trips relax & play in our

idyllic sandy beach base camp.

Run the very best of the charging, galloping Upper Kern!

Fabulous class IV+ reasonably close to Los Angeles. We recommend combining your rafting trip with a trip to Sequoia National

Park.

Trip Comments

Class V Alive, 1-Day Sun-Fri $159 $143 $161$179 $152

Dazzler

Sequoia Shooter, 1-Day 14

12

Shangri-La, 2-Day

Participants should be physically fit & able to swim. See also South Fork Combos.

12 Spr 10 Smr

Please see website, www.whitewatervoyages.com, or call 800-400-7238 for Guide School dates and prices.

Middle Fork Blaster, 1-Day

North Fork Thriller, 1-Day

All trip prices are subject to a land & river government use fee of 3% to 7%, depending on selected river. Prices/policies subject to change.

Terrific fun in quaint, historic gold country. South Fork trips include FREE camping at

our River Park Campground the night before & after your trip.

$260$289Sun-Fri $245

14 Spring

12 Summer

North Yuba Combo Class V Warm-up required.Sun-Fri

10 Spring 7 Summer

Vigorous, sensual class III-IV whitewater perfect for adventurous first timers &

verterans alike.