River rafting provides an exhilarating, heart-pounding adventure you’ll never forget that might even inspire you to make it a routine weekend activity. The right rafting preparation helps you stay safe and comfortable throughout your trip, letting you focus on your beautiful surroundings and get a great workout. The following are preparedness tips every rafting beginner should know. 

What Should First-Time River Rafters Know?

1. Wear the Right Clothes 

You may want to dress in a bathing suit since you are going to get splashed. If you want additional protection from the sun, quick-drying sports shirts and shorts that wick moisture away, unlike cotton garments, can help. Surf shoes provide foot protection unless you prefer to go barefoot, and covering any exposed skin with sunscreen will sidestep painful burns at the end of the day. Wearing sunglasses or goggles with UV protection will shield your eyes from harmful rays. 

2. Listen Carefully During the Safety Orientation

Paying careful attention during the safety orientation is key. You’ll learn how to step in and out of the raft safely, how to react to different scenarios, such as extra-fast rapids, and how to assume the swimmer’s position in the event of falling in. The position requires you to lie on your back or stomach with your feet up while facing downstream, which helps your body move in the right direction toward shore. 

3. Paddle With Your Fellow Rafters

Keep one of your hands over your paddle’s T-grip or the end of the river rafting tool, which prevents hitting other rafters. It's best to paddle in tandem with the people in your raft—the guide will shout different instructions that your paddle “captain,” or person in the front of the boat, will start. Following their stroke pattern makes for a seamless rafting experience. 

4. Never Take Your Life Jacket or Helmet Off 

Do not take your life jacket or helmet off while you are in the water for any reason, such as because you need to cool off for a minute. The jacket keeps you afloat if you fall in, and the helmet protects your head from injuries, which is especially important considering the rocks most rivers feature. If you’re feeling hot, you can use the water you brought with you to cool off. Staying hydrated is key during river rafting, as dehydrated muscles can cramp and prevent you from paddling effectively.

For river rafting experiences you’ll always cherish, book a retreat at Riverside Mountain Lodge in Downieville, CA. Situated near the Yuba and Downie rivers, this resort makes it easy to enjoy the supreme beauty of Sierra County. Call (530) 289-1000 or visit the website to make your reservation. Get the latest resort updates on Facebook.