What is White Water Rafting?

If you are vacationing near a river, you are probably looking for a fun way to enjoy the water. There really is no better way to experience a landscape and the power of Mother Nature than to get on the river and feel it flowing beneath you. A white water rafting trip is the perfect way to see a large section of terrain and create a fun memory on your trip.

So, What Is White Water Rafting Exactly?

There are tons of ways to get on the water and plenty of different bodies of water to experience. To break it down, white water describes a part of a river that has rapids, and rafting is the vehicle you will be traveling in. Rivers are rated into different classes that describe the difficulty of the rapids, both based on technical skill and size. Class 1 rapids are small, while Class 6 are considered unsafe except for professionals. The Colorado Springs area offers some amazing white water opportunities on the Arkansas River. These are classes 2-4, which are perfect for beginners looking for adventure and thrill without too much technical difficulty. 

Image by Luisao Pepe from Pixabay

Why White Water Rafting Is Great for Beginners

As opposed to kayaking or canoeing, rafting is a great option for beginners because it is a group activity. Your guide will teach you the basics of paddling and navigating the waterways, and the group effort makes the work a lot more manageable. A raft also has the benefit of added stability over a kayak or canoe. While it is possible to fall out of the raft, white water kayakers know that rolling a kayak can definitely happen on the river. If you are nervous about spending time overboard, a rafting trip is the best option.

What to Expect on a White Water Rafting Trip

After you get set up with gear, you and your rafting group will head down to the river with your raft and guide. The trip will be fully planned out with a specific drop-in and out location on the river, and the guide’s knowledge of how to navigate each rapid you will face. At the start of the trip, your guide will teach you how to paddle as a team. Whoever sits at the front of the raft will dictate the pace so everyone’s paddling efforts will work together. When you go over rapids, it’ll feel like a roller coaster with a nice cold splash at the end. 

White water rafting is an amazing way to get up close and personal with some very interesting landscapes. You will get to see unique rock formations carved out from the powerful river as well as views of the surrounding area that you wouldn’t have from nearby trails or roads. You may raft through a canyon or gorge, offering breathtaking views of the rock face as you float by. 

The river is also a great place for spotting wildlife. You might see eagles or falcons flying about looking for a meal in the river, as well as fish like trout and other local species swimming below. Every part of a white water rafting trip will involve some calm waters, and depending on how clear the water is, you might catch some cool views. 

What Gear Do You Need for a White Water Rafting Trip?

If you are wondering how to go white water rafting, a tour is a great option to minimize your investment. You don’t have to worry about renting a raft or gathering a group together for a trip. A white water rafting tour will take care of the raft, life vest, helmet, paddles, and logistics of getting on and off the water. 

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Can I Go White Water Rafting Alone?

Aside from the gear requirements, white water rafting requires specific knowledge about the river. White water rafting guides are experts in how the water flows around obstacles and the best ways to negotiate rapids with the raft. Your white water rafting guide will have experience with the specific rapids you will travel down, and this expertise will ensure you have a safer and more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear White Water Rafting

In addition to the necessary life vest, you will want to wear clothes that are comfortable when wet. Depending on the class of rapids and where you sit in the raft, you may get a little splash or pretty soaked. For this reason, it is important to wear dri-fit clothing that will dry faster and stay comfortable. It’s not a good idea to wear cotton, which will stay wet, especially under a life vest. This will make you cold and clammy. You can opt to wear a bathing suit, but athletic shorts will work as well. 

For footwear, many white water rafters advise closed-toe shoes. You will also want to wear something that will stay on – a flip-flop or clog could easily end up at the bottom of the river. The best thing to wear on a white water rafting trip would be wetsuit booties or water shoes. These will remain comfortable and grippy when wet, so your feet and stability will be protected in the event that you end up in the water. Whatever you choose to wear, it is a good idea to bring a small towel, dry socks, and shoes to leave in a locker or in your car. No one likes the feeling of damp toes, and it’s a good idea to dry off and change once you get off the water. 

What Should I Bring on a White Water Rafting Trip?

Now that your clothing and safety equipment are accounted for, let’s go over a few other essentials for the day. First, consider that you will likely be in the sun for the whole trip. You should apply sunscreen to any body part that won’t be covered by clothing. This is an important note as your legs will be out of the water and exposed to the sun. You don’t want a shin sunburn! Also, be sure to apply sun-blocking chapstick to keep from getting sunburned on your lips.

Though you will be wearing a helmet, you will be able to fit a hat underneath to provide some necessary shade. Many white water rafters also choose to wear sunglasses, for glare off the river. Just make sure your sunglasses fit well or aren’t too expensive! Consider that a large rapid might throw anything overboard that isn’t attached to you or the raft.

The last and most important thing to remember is water. The river will tempt any thirsty rafters, and the heat and sun can dehydrate easily. A river rafting trip may be a few hours to a full day, so make sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated.

Final Thoughts

White water rafting is a little bit of work and a lot of fun. Paddling over rapids is a thrilling way to experience the power of the river. It’s also a great outdoor activity for a hot summer day. If you have little experience in choppy waters, rafting is the best way to get more comfortable with your paddling and river floating skills. So, if you are wondering how to get started with white water rafting near Colorado Springs, you found it. Just sign up for a white water rafting tour and have fun!

Hot Weather Hiking Tips

If you are looking for some fun summer adventures, there are plenty of things to do in the Colorado Springs area. That said, there may be some hot days ahead, and it is important to know how to stay comfortable and safe while hiking in extreme temperatures. We’ll go over the best hot weather hiking tips so you can get on the trail and enjoy a safe and fun time.

The Right Clothes for Hot Weather Hiking

It’s important to dress properly for the weather. In hotter climates, you will be tempted to wear less. But you also need to consider the sun exposure and the potential for sunburn. The best option is breathable and lightweight fabrics. Also, some hiking clothes have vents for those warmer months. Consider finding hiking clothing with these helpful little zippers! 

I always avoid cotton when hiking because I don’t like feeling wet. While the moisture can help cool you down in the summer, it can also be dangerous if the weather drops suddenly and you don’t have a clean, dry shirt. Temperatures in Colorado Springs can change quickly, especially as you gain altitude. The area is also known for afternoon rain, so keep this in mind as you dress and pack dry alternate clothing. 

The same definitely goes for socks. Having wet socks during any season is a surefire way to end up with blisters since damp skin is more susceptible to chaffing. Grab a pair of lightweight wool socks and breathable hiking boots. Keep in mind that in most cases, breathable and waterproof do not go together. Most waterproof hiking boots are stuffy, and it can be hard for your feet to stay dry when you sweat in such boots. If this is the case, carry a change of socks on your trip so you can stop, let your feet dry out, and change socks.

Wear Light Colors

It is worth noting that light colors do not absorb sunlight the way dark colors do. Keep this in mind when choosing your dry-fit shirt for the hike, and you will notice that you stay a little cooler. Next time you’re shopping for hiking clothes, instead of black, opt for white, tan, or khaki.

Wear UPF-rated clothing

While all clothing blocks out some of the sun’s rays, there is the option of wearing specially designed clothes that have UV protection. This is a great option for people with fairer skin or hikers out for a long day. Look for clothes with a UPF rating to ensure skin protection on your hike.

The Best Places to Hike in Hot Weather

If you are planning to go out despite some steamy conditions, there are a few ways to ensure a more comfortable time. One way is to find a hike near a body of water. You can benefit from a nice cool breeze, and you can wet a bandana to cool you down on the trail.

It is fairly obvious, but hiking in shady spots is a must in hot weather. Staying out in the sun too long at the exertion level hiking requires can be dangerous. If you start feeling the heat, pull over in the shade until you feel your body temperature come back down.

Photo by Hans Ott on Unsplash

The Best Times to Hike in Hot Weather

Another way to avoid overexposure is by picking a good time for your summer hike. The hottest time of the day is between noon and 2 pm. You can get an early start or consider an evening-time hike to avoid the worst of the hot weather. 

Staying Hydrated During Hot Weather Hiking

The Importance of a Hydration Pack

Keeping your hydration levels steady is essential when hiking in hot temperatures. One thing to note is that you will stay better hydrated with a hydration pack rather than a water bottle. It is easier to reach for, and you can take a sip without pulling over on the hike and fishing out your water bottle. 

How Much Water Should I Drink on a Hike?

When hiking in hot temperatures, you need to account for a few factors. You can’t just drink what you normally would when sitting at home, or even on a more temperate hike. You will be sweating, and the temperature and humidity affect how much water you need to take in. 

A general recommendation is about a half liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. Half a liter is about 16 fluid ounces, if you have a water bottle with measurements on it. What this means in hot weather hiking is a gulp or two every five to ten minutes. Keep in mind the saying that if you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Your body generally knows when you need fluids, but on a hike, it’s important to stay on top of this and not get to the point of feeling thirsty.

Don’t Forget about Salt!

One dangerous mistake hikers make is drinking just water. You should try to drink enough to make up for what you are sweating, but regular water is not the same as what we sweat. Our bodies need electrolytes, aka salt. It is possible to drink too much water and be “overhydrated.” This is just as dangerous as dehydration, so make sure your water consumption is balanced. It is also a good reason to consider not hiking alone in dangerously hot temperatures. If you want to stay safe while hiking alone, be sure to tell someone where you are going, carry the ten essentials, and know your limits. 

There are a few ways to add salt to make sure you don’t overhydrate on water alone. You can get salt tablets or “hydration tablets” that dissolve in water in effervescent and fruity flavors. You can bring along a sports drink that has a healthy mix of electrolytes. You can get a trail snack like salted peanuts, pretzels, or granola bars. 

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, climate change is causing more extreme temperatures. We need to adapt and learn how to stay safe in these hotter months so we can continue to enjoy the great outdoors. Wearing weather-appropriate clothing, using sunscreen, and staying properly hydrated are all key ingredients in safe and comfortable hot weather hiking. Be sure to know your limits, take breaks in the shade when needed, and use a wet hat or bandana to cool off along the way. You can also join a guided hike for practical, on-trail tips for hiking safety.