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Lower Kern Half Day Class IV

Guided ·

4.8

(788)

See all whitewater rafting trips in Bakersfield

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Wildlife

Shuttle Included

Beginner Friendly

Instant Book

This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available

Duration: 4 hours

Pricing

Adult (Sat)

12 years old and up

$180

Adult (Sun-Fri)

12 years old and up

$165

Description

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

The Lower Kern Half Day is an exciting half-day run that packs a serious punch. Five miles, five great Class IV rapids, and one thrilling jump rock! When you are not getting drenched by glorious waves, enjoy a relaxing swim in the calm pools, and see the abundance of wildlife. You can’t ask for more in four hours of whitewater rafting on the Lower Kern River.

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 four-hour trip is a great way to experience the Kern River. Whether you're new to rafting or looking for a quick but action-packed adventure, the Lower Kern Half-Day offers the perfect mix of excitement and natural beauty.

Duration

Duration: 3-4 hours

Months of operation: May - September

Trip Times: 9:30am and 2:30pm

Location / Where to Meet

Sierra South Mountain Sports

1300 Kernville Rd
Kernville, CA 93238

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

Minimums:

Age: 12
Weight: 90 lbs (we may weigh small children)

Maximum Weight: 275 lbs

What's Included

Personal Flotation Device
Helmet
Paddle
Water
Professional Guides
Shuttle to/from the river

Not Included

Equipment add-ons

Wetsuit Rental (may be needed seasonally)
Splash Jacket Rental
Neoprene Booties Rental

Gratuity
6% USFS/Land Use Fee (paid at checkout)
Photos (available after the trip)
Lunch

What to Bring / Wear

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

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.

Do you take photos of us on the river?

Professional photographers capture the fun on 99% of our trips! You can buy your photos and show them off online right away. Don’t forget to pick up some great Sierra South Mountain Sports clothing as well.

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.

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.

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.

Availability

October 2026

SuMoTuWeThFrSa

There is no instant booking availability for this adventure. Drop us a line using the contact form below and we'll do our best to help you book this adventure or suggest some alternative options

Reviews

4.8