2008 Rafting Season Outlook

California has received lots of snow and water for the upcoming season, which means more flows and exciting opportunities on the natural, undammed rivers. Snowstorms in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California will ensure that this year’s rafting season will be truly one of a kind. From the North Fork American to the Merced Rivers, whitewater rafting enthusiasts can enjoy unique adventures and trips throughout the Northern Californian region. Here are just a few highlights of the 2008-rafting season:

Snow Drifts in Tahoe

With the frequent storms and snow piling up ever day in the Tahoe region, the state Department of Water Resources report a 40% increase over previous years. The higher the snow pack, the larger the release of water into the rivers this spring and summer. This strong snowpack will mean great rafting opportunities by April and May, so there will be many chances to enjoy high water levels throughout the region, right in time for prime rafting season!

The American River Flows Free

After local agencies rebuilt the riverbed around the Auburn Dam, The American River is finally flowing free after 40 years. The project is a step towards restoration of the region, and cost over $30 million. What this means for whitewater rafting enthusiasts is more recreational opportunities along the river, and also a new ‘portage’ path. Boaters will also have access to a new recreation area, and this is a lighter region compared to the Middle Fork further upstream. This area is expected to open in early spring 2008, and will encourage more people to head to the Northern Californian area for white water rafting, paddling, boating, and even canoeing adventures.

North Fork American River Offers Unique Hiking Trails Before Rafting Season

The freezing cold temperatures around the North Fork American River promise scenic views and unique hiking opportunities before the spring rafting season begins. The trail is known as the Euchre Bar Trail, and goes right on through ‘Chamberlain’s Run.’ If you’re looking for a reason to head outdoors without the rafting gear, be sure to catch the fresh landscaping and outdoor trips available by hiking around this region before the ice and snow begin to melt. It’s a beautiful trip just a few miles from Interstate 80, and promises gorgeous sunrise and sunsets as well.

Exciting New Experiences on the North Fork American River

The North Fork American River boasts 11 miles of Class IV whitewater rafting adventures, and this year may be one of the best. The deep plunges down the western slope of the Sierra and challenging rapids throughout offer a fresh experience for both amateur and professional white water rafting enthusiasts this season. You can also set up camp at the Whitewater Excitement Camp in Coloma, the scenic campsite located near Highway 49 in Coloma.

More Skiing Opportunities in Tahoe

Because of the increased snow around Tahoe, you can look forward to even more skiing and snowboarding opportunities before spring rafting season begins. Hit the slopes to enjoy some of the decades best snow packs; the high water content of this year’s snowfall is good news for rafters, and the opportunities for a strong rafting season ahead look more promising than ever.

The Best of Merced River Rafting in May and June

When the season’s snow melts rapidly enough this year, white water rafting enthusiasts can begin to enjoy the Merced River rafting adventures as early as mid-April. This area is typically ideal for whitewater rafters by May an late June, but beginning paddlers will need to wait until the wildest waters settle down – usually around late-June to early July. The Merced River offers 18 miles of nonstop action, adventurous river flows, and rolling rapids that are truly one of a kind.

Rafting season begins as early as March of each year, and runs through late September. The Merced River is expected to be raft-able through July, and the last few weeks will offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy all-day trips. The American River will also be raft-able until the late-September, offering scenic views and landscapes at the turn of the season. No matter what experience level you may have, 2008 offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy some of this decades most memorable and exciting adventures.

About The Author:
Norm Schoenhoff and his crew have been leading river rafting trips down four of the most beautiful Northern California white water rivers, since 1978. Whitewater Excitement provides trips designed for beginners to experienced rafters, with \”Best in Class\” standards of safety, service, pricing and quality. Church groups, business organizations, families, and groups of friends regularly make the fun and exhilarating trip down the rivers, with the expert rafters from Whitewater Excitement. Learn more by visiting: http://www.whitewaterexcitement.com