Rafting is an amazing outdoor adventure and like all outdoor adventures, weather doesn’t always stick to the plan. One of the most common questions we get from guests is: “What happens if it rains on the day of my rafting trip?”
The simple answer: Most rafting trips, including ours, run rain or shine.
We all love to have temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s for our rafting trips, but a rainy day on the river can actually create some of the most unique, memorable trips you’ll ever experience. Below, we will break down what you can expect from your rafting trip if it rains.
Do Rafting Trips Get Canceled When It Rains?
Short answer: usually not. Rain alone is usually not a reason to cancel a whitewater rafting trip. You’re already getting wet, and light rain or clouds don’t change river or the rapids. Most guests forget it’s even raining once the rapids start splashing!
At Whitewater Excitement, we run trips rain or shine as long as conditions are safe. We monitor river levels and weather closely and only adjust plans if safety becomes an issue.
So, can you go rafting in the rain? Definitely. The most common rafting trips happen in the Spring, and we provide you up with wetsuits and/or splash jackets to keep you warm. Most rafting companies follow a similar rain-or-shine policy, though extremely cold or unsafe conditions may lead to a rain check.
At Whitewater Excitement, safety comes first, and our goal is always to give you a fun, comfortable, and memorable day on the river with or without a little rain.
What to Wear Rafting in the Rain
Staying warm and comfortable is the key to enjoying a rainy rafting trip. At Whitewater Excitement, we provide wetsuits, fleece tops, and splash jackets at no extra cost when the weather calls for it. The wetsuit keeps you insulated, the fleece adds warmth, and the splash jacket blocks wind and rain.
For your own layers, avoid cotton, which will just keep you cold and wet. We recommend you stick to synthetic or wool fabrics like fleece, polypropylene, or athletic materials. For your feet, wear secure footwear such as water shoes, sandals with straps, or old sneakers.
If you really want to stay work, wear wool socks or neoprene socks under your shoes, and bring a light beanie or neoprene gloves. Our guides will make sure you have the proper gear and remain comfortable on your rafting trip in the rain.
Why Rafting in the Rain Can Be Even More Fun
We get it, rafting in the rain may not be your ideal day. However, rafting in the rain can be a much more unique and great day! Here are a few reasons why:
The Scenery Gets Epic
You’ll often find mist and clouds hovering near the canyon walls. The river canyon will look dramatic, moody, especially on the South Fork of the American River.
Fewer People Means A More Personal Experience
A forecast of rain will keep some “fair-weather” folks away, so trips may be smaller or less crowded.
The Water Feels Warmer
This surprises people, but often rain is warmer than the river, especially early season. The rain can actually feel refreshing after cold splashes from rapids.
FAQs About Rafting In The Rain
Yes! We will run trips if it rains on the rafting trip! The most common time it rains on rafting trips is in the spring, during which we will issue you the proper gear for the weather.
Most rafting companies will have a rain or shine policy that states that they operate their trips whether it is sunny or raining, and they don’t cancel their trips if it is raining. I have even seen some companies raft during a snow storm. In my experience, however, most companies, especially on the American River, will give you a rain check if the weather is going to be super cold and the chances of anyone getting hypothermia are real.
We all take safety very seriously and want our guests to have a great time on the river.
We will provide a wetsuit, fleece, and splash jacket free of charge if they are needed! The splash jacket will keep the water off you, the fleece will help keep your upper body warm, and the wetsuit will keep you insulated. This combination of gear works well! If you want, you can also bring warm wool socks, gloves, and a beanie. We suggest no cotton during these days, as cotton clothes will keep your body cold.
If there is a forecast of thunder and lightning (very rare even in the spring, and almost never happens in the summer) we will watch very closely. If there are any lightning strikes close to the area, we will pull the raft to shore and wait it out (usually only takes 10-15 minutes). Once the storm has passed, we will continue the trip!
Not usually. River levels depend more on the upstream snowmelt and dam releases and local showers. Heavy long lasting storms can affect levels and we monitor these closely.
If you dress correctly and use the gear we provide, you can keep warm throughout the trip. Coming with the proper layers and using a wetsuit and paddle jacket are a must.
Absolutely! As long as they are dressed for the weather, both adults and kids will love rafting on a rainy day.
Don’t Let a Little Rain Ruin Your Adventure!
A rafting trip in the rain is still a rafting trip, exciting, beautiful, and unforgettable. With the proper gear and the right attitude, it might even become your favorite day on the river.
If you have any concerns about weather, gear, or safety, just give us a call. We’re always happy to help you prepare. You can check on the weather for your trip with this 7 Day Forecast for Lotus.
