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Lower Kern Full Day Class IV

Guided

Features

Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Wildlife
Instant Book
Shuttle Included
Locally Owned
$235 Adult (Sat)
(Minimum of 4 people required for first booking • 12 years and up)
$199 Adult (Sun - Fri)
(Minimum of 4 people required for first booking • 12 years old and up)

Description

Lower Kern Full-Day Class IV Rafting - Intermediate Kern River Rafting Trip

Choosing a full day of Whitewater Rafting on the Lower Kern River is the best way to experience the robust rapids and awesome scenery. Any nerves you may have will slip away as the guides teach you the skills needed to thrive in this fast-paced environment. 13 miles, 8 Class IV rapids, dozens of class III, endless pools to swim in, the perfect jump rock, and a fully catered lunch; is there a better way to spend a warm California day? We don’t think so! Any section that is a favorite of the guides is guaranteed to be a fun day for everyone.

When you're not charging through rapids, enjoy the calmer sections of the river, where you can swim, float, and take in the stunning canyon scenery. The Lower Kern is home to a variety of wildlife, and you may spot birds of prey, deer, and other animals along the shore.  With exciting whitewater and beautiful surroundings, this full-day trip is a great way to experience the Kern River.

Duration

Duration: 6-8 hours 


Months of operation: May - October
Trip Times: 9:00 am

Location / Where to Meet

Sierra South Mountain Sports
We suggest you arrive at the store 30 minutes prior to the trip. Unless you have a group over 20 or are getting wetsuits, then please arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour prior.

Ages & Requirements

  1. Minimums: Age: 12 Weight: 90 lbs (We may weigh small children)
  2. Maximum Weight: 275 lbs

What's Included

  1. Personal Flotation Device
  2. Helmet
  3. Paddle
  4. Water
  5. Professional Guides
  6. Shuttle to/from the river
  7. Lunch

Not Included

  1. Equipment add-ons
    1. Wetsuit Rental
    2. Splash Jacket Rental
    3. Neoprene Booties Rental
  2. Gratuity
  3. 6% USFS/Land Use Fee (paid at checkout)
  4. Photos (available after the trip)

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Appropriate footwear: Tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with heel strap. NO FLIP-FLOPS OR BARE FEET!
  2. Wear fleece and/or quick-dry clothing (no cotton for the river)
  3. Towels to dry off after rafting
  4. Cash to tip your raft guide and/or to purchase retail gear, snacks or memorabilia at our retail shop
  5. Waterproof Sunscreen
  6. Sunglasses
  7. Quick dry clothing, fleece, footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and towels can be purchased at our Retail Store (subject to availability).  

Full Day Kern River Rafting Trip

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Sierra South Mountain Sports

FAQs

Is there a minimum number of guests?

All trips require a minimum number of 4 guests. If participant numbers are not met we will notify you and provide various options for your trip to go.

Are wetsuits required or recommended?

During early-season trips (March-May) wetsuits are required on most trips. Wetsuits are not mandatory after June 15th, but are recommended for trips between March and early June.

What if the water levels are too high?

Trips may be substituted or changed due to water levels. Potential changes include, but are not limited to the following list: At higher water levels Inflatable Kayaking trips will be converted to regular rafting trips. Some Class IV trips may be converted to Class III trips and Class V trips may be converted to Class IV trips. During lower water levels, some Class IV trips will be rescheduled to our Class II & III sections. End of season trips can also be converted from rafting to inflatable kayaking or tubing.

Is previous experienced required?

This is considered a Class III-IV Intermediate run, but no previous rafting experience is required - this trip is appropriate for adventurous beginners who are up for excitement and ready to paddle.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy:

You may cancel 30 or more days before your Sierra South trip date and receive a full refund less a $25 processing fee per person. Cancellations made 29 days or fewer before the trip date are non-refundable. If you must cancel, please try to find a friend to take your space. All trips go rain or shine. However, we reserve the right to alter or cancel a trip/class due to high or low-water conditions, other such uncontrollable situations, or insufficient reservations. Only in the case of canceled trips are trip fees fully refundable. Upon approval by our company officers, refunds will be sent via credit card. Refunds cannot be granted by guides, nor can refunds be given if you leave a trip or class early for any reason. Sierra South is not liable for other costs incurred in association with a canceled trip. We strongly recommend trip insurance such as Insure My Trip to cover any unexpected situations.

Trip Date Change Policy:

You may reschedule your trip 30 days or more prior with no change fee. 29 to 21 days prior you may change your trip date for a charge of $15 per person. 20 days or fewer a trip date change will not be available. All trip date changes must be within the same rafting season.

Deposit Policy:

When booking 30 days or more in advance, a minimum 25% deposit or the full payment amount is due at the time of booking. 29 days or fewer to your trip you must pay your full balance.

Guest Responsibility and Liability Policy:

All Sierra South trips and classes involve physical activity and include certain elements of risk. We make every effort to run trips and classes in the finest, most fun-filled manner as possible. However, we cannot guarantee your safety. It is your responsibility to evaluate your level of fitness and to select a trip or class which is appropriate for you. Seek medical advice before your trip if you question your physical condition. It is your responsibility to follow our instructions.

Everyone will be required to sign a release of liability/assumption of risk form and photography/video waiver form before departure. Minors under 18 not accompanied by their parents must have an online release form signed by their parent or legal guardian.

Accompaniment Policy:

Minors must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.

Minimums Policy:

Some of our trips require a minimum number of guests to operate. The Lickety Split, Lickety Blaster, Combo, Upper Kern Half Day, Upper Kern Full Day, Lower Kern Half Day, Lower Kern Full Day, Lower Kern Big Five or Two-Day Lower Kern, all require a minimum of 4 guests. The Forks of the Kern trips require a minimum of 8 guests. Kayak classes, (other than private kayak classes), Standup paddleboarding, and Climbing require a minimum of 4 guests. We will attempt to contact you if the minimums have not been met for the activity that you have chosen prior to the trip date. Minimum numbers can be met through one or multiple reservations and can be met up to the day before the trip. You can call 760-376-3745 for up-to-date trip status.

Water Levels Policy:

Trips may be substituted or changed due to water levels. Potential changes include, but are not limited to the following list: At higher water levels Inflatable Kayaking trips will be converted to regular rafting trips. Some Class IV trips may be converted to Class III trips and Class V trips may be converted to Class IV trips. During lower water levels, some Class IV trips will be rescheduled to our Class II & III sections. End of season trips can also be converted from rafting to inflatable kayaking or tubing.

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Availability

May 2025

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Reviews

Location

Address

11300 Kernville Rd

Kernville, CA, 93238

US

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