What is White Water?
White water is formed in a rapid, when a rivers gradient increases enough to create so much turbulence that air is entrapped into the water body it forms a bubbly unstable current: the frothy water appears white.
What is White Water Rafting?
Rafting is fun-filled and exciting aquatic adventure that can be enjoyed by individuals of all skill level with proper guiding and instructions. Adventure Edge uses specialized rubber rafts that are very sturdy and flexible. (AVON one of the best raft manufacturers in the world). These rafts can accommodate 8-10 individuals. All the rafters have paddles, which are used to guide and propel the raft through the water. There are two trained guides and a group of novices, depending on the difficulty of the waters.
Rafting became popular in the eighties and soon triggered a bloom. Over the years the sports developed to a nature experience for tourists and is very popular among families and adventurous. The Mystery, rhythm, power and spectacular scenery in Pakistan are infinitely variable and plentiful and awaited to be explored are sufficient reasons to attract the white water sportsman.
Whitewater River Rating System
You should always be prepared and know what to expect when rafting a river. A whitewater rating scale was created to simplify the classes of rapids. This helps discover the difficulty and danger of a river. Since some rivers can potentially fit into more than one category, it isn’t exact but it is a great guide and base to use when planning your whitewater rafting adventure. If you’ve never rafted a rapid before remember to scout (examine the rapids) before you attempt it or book your white water rafting trip with a reputable company. Classes can change due to water levels, recent floods, geological disturbances and bad weather.
Grading of White Water Rafting
Class I – Easiest: Very small rough areas, might be some rocky , might require some maneuvering.
Class II – Easy: The rapids are slightly larger than Class I. Channels are wide, clear and easily navigable. Maneuvering around some objects may be necessary but not difficult. If slightly more navigation is necessary or water is quicker, the rapid may be considered “Class II+”.
Class III – Medium: Moderately sized, irregular waves. Faster current and narrower passages. Large waves, obstructions, rocks can be easily avoided with precise maneuvering. Powerful currents and strong eddies. Injuries are rare.
Class IV – Advanced: Current is fast, rapids are long and difficult. Passages are constricted and may include unavoidable waves and holes. Scouting the rapid before is recommended to know the best route.
Class V – Expert: Extremely long, complex and difficult. Waves are large and unavoidable. Drops, holes and steep chutes are common. Scouting is highly recommended.
Class VI – Extreme: These runs often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability, and dangers of whitewater rafting. The consequences of errors are very severe!