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I’ve heard it more times than I can count. “I want something bigger!” but guides have a saying. Everyone wants to raft a class V until they swim a class III. With every jump up the class scale the prospect of falling out and having problems increases. What most rafters don’t realize is that not only do their guides provide the confidence instilled in them but that all guides are not alike. I would recommend that if you’re in the market for a jump up to look at the other rivers the company offers and stick with the same outfitter.

But alas if you must run Cherry Creek or Bert Ranch Gorge in California then make sure you’re ready for the piss-your-pants river talk at the beginning of the day. Not only will you have to complete a skill test—swimming under a boat, pulling yourself in and running a mile—but you will have to face the reality that this is not a float trip.

Most rafters find that class IV rivers offer enough excitement for them. California provides several rivers with pristine runs while Idaho, Utah, and West Virginia provide similar choices.

Many times rafters will be hesitant to pick a harder river for their first time and even though this may be a smart move it can also cause some frustration. If you know your athletic ability and want to have some high adrenaline don’t hesitate to pick something that sounds mind blowing, just don’t drag someone else into the trip who doesn’t feel the same way. Over the years I’ve taken several groups down that didn’t want to necessarily raft the harder rivers but the group organizer did. Be smart and feel out your crew.

Finally be risky but don’t forget that rafting is also about experiencing the canyon and the outdoors itself. Just because the rapids might be the most remembered part of the trip, the beauty of the river and how it flows is what brings most guides back year after year. The same river done twice can provide two completely different trips and might be the way to go.

Tim Shisler has been a river guide with Whitewater Excitement for the past four seasons. He is currently working as a freelance outdoor adventure writer and photographer.

• For more info California river rafting: http://www.whitewaterexcitement.com

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• South Fork American River; California’s best river for first timers and families: http://www.whitewaterexcitement.com/s_fork/trips.html