Forks of the Kern, Class V River Trips 

Amen! When we speak the name, we invariably pause and lower our voices an octave. Bar none, this wilderness crown jewel holds the best stretch of continuous rampaging froth you'll ever tackle — ever. Mere print can't do justice to its beauty and power. It's romantic and ideal for couples. You'll be spellbound amid secluded lagoons, waterfalls plunging down canyon walls, granite spires spiking into the sky, cedar groves for camping and miles and miles of white foam.

Our most popular Three-Day voyage overnights at View Camp just below the granite spires of The Needles at the confluence of Needle Rock Creek and the North Fork of the Kern. The second night is spent right above Confusion Rapid, one of the most challenging runs on the river. And, for those who, without savoring the delights, simply want to carve another notch on their rafted rivers list, we offer Two-Day blitzes.

Be ready to hike. The river put-in is two trail-miles downhill in the Golden Trout Wilderness. Horses carry the heavy loads. You hike your own gear in our waterproof packs.

Similar to the Thunder Run, the best, most-consistent flows are in early May and June. Book early season trips and cross your fingers that the river flows cooperate. Trips are limited to 15 passengers. Average of two starts weekly, mid-April through mid-July, longer in wet years. Oarboats carry your gear as you carve your way downstream in paddleboats. Oarboat assist paddling is also employed on some trips. Minimum age is 16 on our Forks Trips.