White water rafting on wild river rapids is an outdoor activity that became popular during the 1950s, if not earlier. Today, it is used as an escape by thrill-seekers who wish to spice up their routine with something exhilarating, fast-paced, and unique. However, despite its popularity, there are numerous misconceptions about the sport that dissuade people from experiencing it! Here are five myths that we have taken the time to research and debunk for you.
1. River Rafting Is Typically American
While the sport was invented in the United States, it isn’t exclusive to the country. In fact, men and women can find rafting trips on every continent on the planet, except Antarctica. Some of the best white rafting rivers are in Costa Rica, Chile, Angola, Nepal, Fiji, and more.
2. White Water Rafting Is Only for Adrenaline Junkies
It is an unequivocal truth that river rafting is appealing to people who love elevating their heart rate. But the experience is about a lot more than just getting on a raft and heading down river rapids at high speed. In truth, the rafting itself is rather short. Enthusiasts highlight the anticipation and shared the excitement as the focal points of the trip. They also point out the subsequent stories as a perfect ending of an amazing adventure. People of all ages and fitness levels can go white water rafting and that is proven by the fact that many children do it, as well as the fact that numerous companies use it for their team building gatherings. So don’t worry to try something new just because you aren’t an adrenaline junkie because it will truly transcend you and create an unforgettable memory.
3. Rivers in the Western United States Are Going Dry
Some say that the rivers in the western U.S. are running dry and that in a few years white water rafting Colorado and other states would be impossible. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It is an undeniable fact that the western U.S. suffered from drought in recent years but 2016, for example, had average to above average snowfall, which fed the rivers in spring and summer as the snow started melting. Another factor that should be taken into account is that almost every major river in these parts of the country is dam-released. Their waters are collected and stored in large reservoirs and used for drinking, agriculture, and power generation. Excess water is released at regular intervals during summer and companies use these periods to organize rafting descents.
4. Primitive Camping and Rafting Trips Go Hand in Hand
It is true that rafting journeys don’t offer five-star accommodations but saying that you will have to go back to prehistoric times is quite the stretch. People who opt for multiple-day trips are provided with roomy tents, comfortable and cozy sleeping pads, and waterproof sleeping bags by outfitters. Furthermore, each afternoon a portable toilet system is set up in a discreet but close location to the camp. The food, however, is something else. Rafters can expect to eat as much as they do in their homes, without having to do any of the work. Guides prepare fresh and tasty meals with genuine nutritional value so their guests can replenish their energy levels and seize the day full of strength.
5. You Have to Be an Excellent Swimmer to Really Enjoy the Experience
If that was the case, only Olympic swimmers and professional athletes would book rafting trips. Everyone from excellent swimmers to people who barely manage to stay afloat can enjoy the activity as they are provided with coast-guard approved PFDs (Personal Floating Devices also known as life jackets). The PFDs are designed to keep men, women, and children face up and afloat in case they fall out of the raft or boat. Furthermore, guides take the time to give a detailed safety talk and instruct people on how to “swim” in rapids. Now that you know you will be safe, don’t waste time to learn which are the best places to go white water rafting in Colorado.
As you can read, river rafting isn’t solely for the amusement of thrill-seekers and people with a strong heart. The sport is at the disposal of everybody and is an excellent outlet for men and women who wish to add a bit of excitement in their mundane lives.