3 Things To Consider Before Going On A Raft Tour

When it comes to outdoor activities, going on a raft tour with a company like Jasper Rafting Adventure can be a rewarding experience. You get to experience nature from a completely different viewpoint and even get some exercise. There are plenty of areas throughout the US that you can explore via raft. Most raft tours do involve going through at least some rapids, which can be very thrilling. However, before you sign up for a raft tour, there are a few things that you should know.

Difficulty

The first thing that you should know about raft tours is that they can vary greatly in terms of how difficult the rafting is. Some raft tours take you through calm water with small waves, while others involve powerful waves and eddies that require being in good physical condition as well as white water rafting skills. White water rafting is divided into different grades depending on difficulty. Grade 1 rapids require only small amounts of maneuvering and are a great option if you are looking for a peaceful ride. Grade 2 requires some paddling but is still a good option for beginners. Grade 3 rapids involve more paddling and a few drops, while grade 4 involves medium size waves, drops, and rocks. Grade 5 rapids require skill and experience, while grade 6 rapids are very dangerous.

Physical Condition

While it's very important to consider the difficulty of the rapids before going on a raft tour, it's also important to consider your physical condition. Even raft tours through relatively mild waters can involve a fair amount of physical exertion. If you are not in good shape or have health problems, you should think carefully before going on a raft tour. Rafting burns an average of 300 calories per hour. You may be surprised by how much exercise you get while on a rafting tour.

Cost

Another thing to consider when it comes to raft tours is the cost. Costs can vary depending on the length of your tour, the grade of the rapids, and the location. Single day tours cost on average between $25 and $115 per person. Multi-day guided tours are typically much more expensive. The cost for this type of tour ranges from $400 to $1,315 in total for a trip of three to four days. When booking a multi-day tour, it's important to check to see if food and camping gear or provided or if you need to bring your own.

Raft tours are a great way to see a new location and to seek out thrills along the way. When looking at raft tours, it's important to choose a tour with a level of difficulty that you can handle. Your physical condition is also important. Rafting can involve a lot of physical exertion, especially with higher grade rapids. Cost is another thing to consider. Multi-day tours tend to be the most expensive.