Weekend Runaway: Whitewater Rafting

Tackle Class IV+ rapids on the Kaweah River, three-and-a-half hours north of LA with All-Outdoors.

Make a reservation now for spring. They're booked solid once the Sierra snowpack thaws.

Swift currents and turbulent drops keep your adrenaline pumping in rapids like Power House and Suicide Falls, but the innocuously named The Chair is most notorious for slamming rafters into the drink. Nevertheless, the nine-mile scenic trek is relatively novice-friendly with a stop for lunch along the way.

The season generally runs from April through early June. Mid-May is ideal for capitalizing on warmer weather before the Kaweah starts to tame. Guides are up for group hijinx, but they'll step in when things get dicey, so don't forget to tip.

Where To Stay
If you're into pitching a tent, the Three Rivers Hideaway campground is also where tours meet in the morning. The Sequoia Kings Canyon Comfort Inn is located ten minutes down the road.
Three Rivers Hideaway Camp. $30 for four-person campsite; 43365 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers (559-561-4413).
Sequoia Kings Canyon Comfort Inn. $99 with AAA discount; 40820 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers (559-561-9000).