Please visit the new Kern River Outfitters' blog by clicking here.

Please visit the new Kern River Outfitters' blog by clicking here.

The 2012 Season Is On It's Way

The 2012 rafting season is just around the corner and it promises to be yet another outstanding year here on the Kern River. Our Whitewater School launches on April 14th and we expect to be running Forks and Upper Kern trips from April 28th through June 17th. The Lower Kern will kick in on Memorial Day weekend and is expected to run through August 19th, however the season on the Lower could be extended if releases from the Isabella Reservoir allow. Keep these booking windows in mind when planning your trip to take advantage of the best water levels the Kern River has to offer this year. If you have any questions about our trips or would like to check on availability, give our office a call at 1-800-323-4234.

Thanks for an Outstanding 2011 Rafting Season

The 2011 rafting season here on the Kern River has officially come to a close, however we wanted to take a moment to give a big "THANKS" to all of our valued customers who joined us on the river this year. It was a season that provided enough adventures and smiles to last a lifetime and we couldn't have done it without all of you.

The past couple of days, an early arctic storm has pounded the Sierra Nevada and with it, the promise of yet another fabulous year of rafting in 2012. Keep your collective fingers crossed for more "Bigwater" and thanks again to everyone for making it all possible.

"Premium" Lower Kern Trips to Round Out the 2011 Season

The Lower Kern is STILL flowing at outstanding levels. We expect to run Two Day trips through September 11th. After that, we will be running our Lower Kern One Day "Premium" trips exclusively through Sunday, September 18th. Take advantage of this epic water flow and fabulous one day trip on the Lower this month. Feel free to call our office at 1-800-323-4234 for more details.

Lower Kern "Premium" One Day Rafting Trips: August 20th and 21st

August 20th 21st, we are offering two "Premium" One Day Lower Kern rafting trips. These trips will run ALL TEN of the Class IV rapids on the Lower in one day and they are priced at the same level as an Upper Kern One Day trip. We can only offer three of these trips per season and the first one is already sold out. This is the best one day trip on the river and it's our way of saying "Thanks" to all of our valued customers this year. If you can make it, give our office a call at 1-800-323-4234. You won't find a better bargain on the Kern this season. See you on the river.

Outstanding Rafting Conditions on the Lower Kern are Expected through August

Rafting conditions are expected to be outstanding for those looking to run Lower Kern two day trips through the month of August and even into September this year. The abundant snow pack placed in the Southern Sierra Nevada this past winter is providing a seemingly endless runoff this summer and the water flows on the Lower are expected to be in the range of 2000 cubic feet per second (cfs) through August. Keith Stephens, general manager of Kern River Outfitters mentions, “We could not have ordered more ideal water flow conditions for our guests this year. The Lower Kern is currently running at 2175cfs and the Upper is still presenting levels close to 2000cfs. We’re projecting to run our Lower Kern two day trips through September 13th this year with August being the prime time in terms of great water conditions. The Upper Kern should provide really fun flows through the middle of August which is almost unheard of most years. We are thrilled to be able to offer high quality rafting trips throughout this time frame and have Mother Nature to thank for the opportunity.” Feel free to give our reservations office a call for up-to-date water flow conditions and trip availability. 1-800-323-4234

Rapid Profile: Horseshoe Falls, Lower Kern River

Horseshoe Falls is one of our favorite rapids on the Lower Kern. It is the third of five Class IV rapids on the second day of the trip. Horseshoe commences with a quick right hand turn at the top and feeds into a long straight- a-way that leads to its most well know feature: Horseshoe Hole, a large hydraulic that wages a ton of fun to folks who venture through its frothy mass. After running through or around this feature, paddlers will find a quick left hand turn that places them into a calm pool where they can rest for a while, tell tall tales of the rapid just run, or maybe venture up to “Horseshoe Jumping Rock” and take an exhilarating leap of faith from the 15 foot perch back to the calm water below. Whatever route you take, this rapid and the relaxing respite below it will leave you with a permanent ear to ear grin.

Making the Most of Your Visit to the Kern River Valley

A whitewater rafting trip on the Upper, Lower, or Forks of the Kern is certainly the highlight of a visit to the Kern River Valley however, many times our guest ask us what they can do to extend their visit beyond a day or two on the water. Our office staff are all experts at helping our guests plan their summer vacations and they have plenty of suggestions for activities to augment your visit to the Kern River. Here are a some great suggestions to add a day or two to your visit:

1. A day hike to a grove of Giant Sequoia trees in the high country about an hour away from Kernville.

2. Spend a day learning the art of fly fishing with Guy Jeans of Kern River Fly Fishing Guide Service. Guy is an expert fly fisherman and knows exactly where the hungry trout lie.

3. Check out the activities available on Lake Isabella. Jet skis, pontoon boats, fishing and water skiing boats and kayaks are available at the North Fork Marina. Give Deb a call at

1-760-376-1812 for more information.

4. Spend a leisurely day or afternoon playing a round of golf at the Kern River Golf Course. It’s a great nine hole course nestled in the middle of the scenic Kern River Canyon. You can’t beat the views. and the course is beautifully maintained.

5. Check out the haunted Silver City Ghost Town. It’s packed with historic buildings and has a few “certified” ghosts reported to be lurking in the woodwork.

6. The Kern River Brewing Company (KRBC). Admittedly, you probably won’t be spending an entire day at the KRBC, however Eric, Rebecca, and Kyle have perfected the art of brewing some of the tastiest craft beers (and root beer) ever to grace your taste buds. It’s a great place to relax after a day running the rapids, a hike, or a playing a round of golf.

Our office staff has plenty of other great ideas to help make your visit to the Kern River a fun and memorable experience. Feel free to give them a call at 1-800-323-4234 for more information.

Don't Miss the Extended Season on the Upper Kern this Summer

The Upper Kern River offers the perfect solution for those looking for a one day or partial day whitewater rafting trip this summer. The extended 2011 season will allow us to run outstanding trips on the Upper through the middle of August. With the huge peak flows just behind us, the water is clear, exhilarating, and spectacular. If you’re looking for a one day Class IV rafting trip complete with tons of fun rapids, a fabulous riverside lunch, and unbeatable scenery, the Upper Kern is an excellent choice. In addition to the full day trip, the Upper also offers a Class IV afternoon half day and two hour Class III Double Lickety Split trips for those with less time available but a yearning to sample the river. The minimum age for our Class IV trips is 9; the minimum age for the Double Lickety Split is 5. Feel free to call our reservations office at 1-800-323-4234 if you have any questions or would like to make a reservation.

Guide Profile: Matt Adkisson

Matt joined our team in the Spring of 2009. He hails from Wimberley Texas and received a MBA from Sam Houston State University in August of 2008. In addition to memorizing countless business texts, Matt was also on his school’s track team specializing in pole vaulting. He has demonstrated the highest level of guiding skills and is one of our top Class V guides. His expertise guiding rafts is enjoyed by all who are lucky enough to paddle for him. This past winter, Matt traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia with fellow guide Bridget Murphy and has many stories of his adventures to share. We hope Matt stays out of an office and on the river for many more seasons to come. We’ll do our best to keep him on the water for as long as we are able to keep him firmly placed in the captain’s seat of his paddle boat.

Forks of the Kern Season is Now Open

Most years, our Forks of the Kern trips are just about wrapped up by July. This year, the Forks season isn’t even opening until July. The huge 2011 snow pack and early season high flows have allowed us to postpone these trips to take advantage of the long backslide of the peak runoff. What does that mean to our Class 5 enthusiasts? Simply put: the best Forks of the Kern season since 1998. Forks guest joining us in July and August can expect crystal clear water, toasty weather, and the same action and high adventure the Forks is world famous for. We have two and three day trips departing on July 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th and 30th and August 4th, 9th, and 14th. Don’t miss this once-in-a-decade opportunity to experience this pristine stretch of river at its best. Call our reservations office at 1-800-323-4234 for more details.

A Celebration of Whitewater and Fireworks on the Kern River

Kern River Outfitters is offering several tempting opportunities for friends and families to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend this year. There is still some availability for rafting trips on the Upper and Lower Kern and they have just opened two half day trips on the Lower Kern for Saturday, July 2^nd and Monday July 4^th. Keith Stephens, general manager for Kern River Outfitters states, “The Fourth of July weekend is one of the most popular rafting weekends of the year. The Upper and Lower Kern rivers are still providing fabulous flows for river trips and the local community puts on an exciting fireworks show over Lake Isabella the evening of July 2^nd. We have been recommending several options for our guests that would like to go rafting and still have some time to take in the fireworks show. One is a two day Lower Kern trip departing Friday, July 1^st, a couple others are a one day trip on the Upper or a half day on either the Upper or Lower on Saturday the 2^nd. Any of these options allow our guests to have a great day on the water and still take in the fireworks display over the lake. Guests oftentimes like to add in a round of golf at our local course or a hike to the Giant Sequoia trees to the vacation mix. Our office has a host of great ideas to get folks on the water as well as enjoy all the Kern River Valley has to offer holiday visitors. ”

Kern River Outfitters runs one day, Class IV and Class V trips on the Upper Kern, and two day trips on the Lower Kern. These trips are favorites of groups of family and friends. Three day, Class V trips on the Forks of the Kern are also available for those looking for a world class backcountry river trip. For those looking for shorter experience, they also offer half day and two hour trips.

With more than 40 professional river guides on staff and over 35 years in the business, Kern River Outfitters is one of the most experienced and popular rafting companies offering trips on the Kern River. For more details on any of these trips or ideas to enjoy the Kern Valley this Fourth of July, visit www.KernRafting or give their office a call at 1-800-323-4234.

Common Questions Answered about the three Stretches of the Kern River

Guests often ask us what the difference is between the Lower, Upper, and Forks of the Kern prior to making their reservation so we thought it might be nice to give a quick review of each of these fine stretches of river for you.

The Lower Kern is our premier two day overnight river trip. Guests on this trip are treated to more than ten Class 4 rapids and numerous Class 3 stretches over the course of the twenty mile run. Our private campsite, situated about ten miles into the trip, is a large riverside expanse complete with redwood sleeping decks, thick sleeping pads, and a gourmet kitchen where guides prepare some of the best meals you’ll ever eat. It’s the perfect place for groups of families and friends to relax and tell tall tales of the day’s adventure and anticipate the next day’s run. The Lower Kern is uniquely blessed with warm water in the summer and is one of California’s most sought after overnight river trips. The Lower will run through mid-September this year. The minimum age is 9 (12 during high water).

The Upper Kern is an outstanding one day river trip. This stretch of river offers guests unparalleled access to practically limitless Class 4 whitewater. For those looking for an even greater challenge, the Upper has a Class 5 stretch we call “Thunder Run”. The Thunder Run boasts challenging rapids the likes of “Sock ‘em Dog”, “Fender Bender”, “Squashed Paddler” and “The Flume” that are sure to quench the thirst of the most passionate whitewater boater. The Upper is even blessed with a two hour, Class 2 and 3 stretch we call the “Double Lickety Split”. One could not find a more diverse and popular stretch of river anywhere in the country. We expect to run the Upper Kern through mid-August this year. The minimum age on the Upper is 9 (12 during high water) and 16 on the Thunder Run. The Double Lickety Split’s minimum age is 5 (9 during high water).

The Forks of the Kern is a world-class, 20 mile stretch of Class 5 water that offers our guests access to some of the most challenging whitewater in the country. This trip begins in the Golden Trout Wilderness and runs through the designated “Wild and Scenic” stretch of the Kern River. We know of no more scenic, challenging, or rewarding river trip anywhere. Forks trips are usually three days in duration, however some starts are two day trips. We expect to run Forks trips through mid-August this year. The minimum age for the Forks of the Kern is 16.

If you have any questions about any of these trips, feel free to give our office a call at 1-800-323 4234.

Cool Video of the Lower Kern

Click here to check out this great video of the Lower Kern taken by our guide Mike Spradlin a few days ago. It's some pretty fun footage. The Lower Kern will be running through mid-September this year. If you have any questions about the Lower or any of the other stretches of river we run, feel free to give our office a call @ 1-800-323-4234.

Wine Tasting and Craft Beer on the Lower Kern River

Kern River Outfitters will offer two special theme trips on their Two Day Lower Kern rafting option this summer.

Whitewater and Wine Tasting will be the focus on June 16th and 17th. The trip offers two days of spectacular whitewater coupled with a broad sampling of varietal wines from the Central Valley’s Imbibe Wine and Spirits. Tastings will be hosted by a certified sommelier and complimented with tasty hors d'oeuvres followed by a wonderful camp dinner prepared by the crew. Dawn Jordan, reservations manager and in-house wine experts notes, “This trip offers the best possible combination of fun whitewater, a fabulous dining and camping experience, and the opportunity to sample some fine wines.” She adds, “Having a certified sommelier on board makes the whole event a fun learning experience for those looking to learn more about the art of making great wines.”

July 7th and 8th marks the fourth annual “Pub and Grub” Lower Kern trip. This popular trip features the Kern River Valley’s own micro brewery: the Kern River Brewing Company (KRBC). KRBC will feature their popular craft beers including: Isabella Blonde, Sequoia Red, Just Outstanding IPA, and Class V Stout. A broad sampling of additional micro beers will be available. Guests will be treated to a presentation by a representative of the KRBC to explain the art of crafting these fine beers. Several guests who home brew their own specialty beers will be attending. Keith Stephens, general manager of Kern River Outfitters mentions, “The Pub and Grub has been one of the most popular trips we have run over the past four years. Guests are treated to a host of outstanding beer samplings, a fun presentation on beer making, and a fabulous feast of pub-themed fare. This is the perfect trip for craft beer aficionados and whitewater enthusiasts alike.” Both of these trips are priced at $428/person.

With more than 40 professional river guides on staff and over 35 years in the business, Kern River Outfitters is one of the most experienced and popular rafting companies offering trips on the Kern River. For more details on either of these specialty trips or any of the trips they offer, visit www.KernRafting.com or give their office a call at 1-800-323-4234.

Rafting Center Grand Opening

Kern River Outfitters' Rafting Center Grand Opening was held yesterday evening from 6:30pm until about 9:30pm. The event was attended by about 75 people including representatives from local businesses, the Kernville and Kern Valley Chamber of Commerce, guides and staff members from Kern River Outfitters as well as family and friends from around the Kern Valley. It was a gala event filled with great food, drink and fun times. All of us here at Kern River Outfitters would like to thank everyone who showed up and helped us celebrate this event. We appreciated all of the wonderful wishes for the success of our new Rafting Center and the long rafting season ahead.

Opening Day on the Lower Kern River

Kern River Outfitters Announces Open Season on the Lower Kern

Kern River Outfitters has officially announced the opening of their overnight rafting trips on Southern California’s Lower Kern River. The Lower Kern is a twenty mile stretch of whitewater located in the Sequoia National Forest immediately downstream of the Isabella reservoir in eastern Kern County. This recreational jewel offers whitewater enthusiasts over ten Class IV rapids, numerous Class II and III and an unusual quality: warm water in the summertime.

Kern River Outfitters operates a private campsite for their guests at the halfway point in the twenty mile run. Their campsite features redwood sleeping decks, custom sleeping pads, games, a library, and gourmet meals; all nestled in the scenic Kern River Canyon. Professional river guides escort guests down the river and meticulously prepare all meals throughout the excursion.

Keith Stephens, general manager of Kern River Outfitters notes, “Our Lower Kern overnight is the most popular trip we offer on the Kern River. The scenery is outstanding, the rapids are fabulous, and the fun seemingly never stops. This is a perfect trip for families and groups of friends to spend quality time together and have a wonderful adventure at the same time. Our guides are the best in the business and our campsite is by far the most luxurious on the river. As the summer progresses, guests will find water close to 70 degrees in addition to more whitewater than they will know what to do with. Our steadfast mission is to provide an unforgettable vacation for our valued guests.”

The Lower Kern is expected to run through the middle of September this year, with the best months being June, July, and August. It is one of the few Sierra Nevada rivers that actually flows warm during the summertime.

Kern River Outfitters is listed in National Geographic’s Adventure Magazine as one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies On Earth”. They have been at the forefront running trips on the Kern River in Southern California for over 30 years. They specialize in running all sections of the Kern River including the Upper, Lower, and Forks of the Kern. They offer trips from a two hour Class II and III run to three day Class V runs. Their most popular trip is the Two Day Lower Kern trip.

For more details on the Lower Kern or any of the trips they offer, visit www.KernRafting.comor give their office a call at 1-800-323-4234.

Rafting Vacations Close to Home

A Great Rafting Vacation is More Affordable and Closer Than You Think

Skyrocketing fuel and lodging costs have all but eliminated expensive vacation plans that require travel and overnight stays for many people. Kern River Outfitters offers unique and affordable vacation opportunities for people looking to spend quality time with their friends and families this summer.

For those living in Southern California, whitewater rafting on the Kern River is a brilliant get away that makes sense from an aesthetic and a financial perspective. The Kern River is a veritable whitewater playground and is only a three hour drive from the Los Angeles basin. It is the furthest south of any Sierra Nevada river and offers Southern California residents world class whitewater practically in their own back yard.

Kern River Outfitters’ most popular rafting trip, a two day Lower Kern run, offers twenty miles of fabulous whitewater and a private camp loaded with luxuries including redwood decks, thick sleeping pads, and gourmet meals.

Keith Stephens, general manager of Kern River Outfitters mentions, “Folks looking to take families or groups of friends on a summer vacation just can’t beat the Lower Kern. For one price, guests can take advantage of two days of great whitewater, four wonderful meals, and an overnight stay in one of the most beautiful settings in California. The savings in travel and lodging costs alone make this an attractive vacation opportunity. When you add in your personal guide, gear, great food, and private riverside campsite, this overnight trip on the Lower is an irresistible vacation alternative to expensive summer outings.” He adds, “Our office staff takes the trouble out of planning and can help provide all kinds of options for those looking to combine their rafting trip with other activities including hiking, fishing, lake sports, mounting biking and even golf right here in the Kern Valley.”

Kern River Outfitters has been at the forefront running trips on the Kern River in Southern California for over 30 years. They specialize in running all sections of the Kern River including the Upper, Lower, and Forks of the Kern. They offer trips from a two hour Class II and III run to three day Class V runs. Their most popular trip is the Two Day Lower Kern trip.

With more than 40 professional river guides on staff and over 35 years in the business, Kern River Outfitters is one of the most experienced and popular rafting companies offering trips on the Kern River. For more details on any of the trips they offer, visit www.KernRafting or give their office a call at 1-800-323-4234.

For more information on Kern river trips visit http://www.KernRafting.com or call 1-800-323-4234.

2011 Guest Rewards Card

This year the rafting season is not only going to provide the best water to raft on since 1998, it’s also going to have one of the longest durations as well. The Upper and Forks of the Kern will run well into August and the Lower Kern, already flowing at a fabulous level, will run well into September. Rare seasons like this offer our guests plenty of time to see more than one stretch of the river over the course of the summer and we’d like to help you do just that. As such, we are issuing all of our guests a 2011 Guest Rewards Card at the completion of their trip. This card entitles you a $25 credit towards your next trip this season. This is a small way for us to say “Thanks” for joining us and offer an enticement to see one of the other spectacular sections of the Kern all in one year.

How to Choose a River Outfitter

A rafting vacation is a popular way for families and groups of friends to enjoy the thrill of whitewater and the serenity of the great outdoors. But how do you choose the most competent outfitter? Keith Stephens, general manager of Kern River Outfitters, suggests you ask a few simple questions. “Experience and track record are paramount when one looks for a professional outfit. Outfitters who are able to attract and hold top quality guides are in the position to offer their guests the best experience on the river.” Stephens advises to inquire as to how much experience a company’s guide staff offers. When shopping for an outfitter, here are a few a few key questions to ask:

1. Do they have a loyal customer base that returns year after year?
2. How long have they been outfitting on the stretch of river you’re intending to run?
3. Are they held in high regard by the federal agencies overseeing their permit?
4. Is their guide staff competent and family friendly?

Answers to these simple questions can shed light on the sometimes foggy process of choosing the right outfit for your group.

River trips can range from hour long jaunts to multi day adventures and rapids from easy Class II and III to more moderate Class IV and high adventure Class V outings. “An excellent rafting outfitter should have a depth of guide staff that can negotiate all of these levels of rapid difficulty with confidence,” Stephens adds. Guide personality is also a key factor in a successful, fun rafting trip. Ask your prospective outfitter the average age and make up of their guide staff. An excellent outfitter will have a good variety of men and women guides who not only specialize in technical skills on the water, but are also interesting, engaging hosts.

Kern River Outfitters has been at the forefront running trips on the Kern River in Southern California for over 30 years. They specialize in running all sections of the Kern River including the Upper, Lower, and Forks of the Kern. They offer trips from a two hour Class II and III run to three day Class V runs. Their most popular trip is the Two Day Lower Kern trip.

With more than 40 professional river guides on staff and over 35 years in the business, Kern River Outfitters is one of the most experienced and popular rafting companies offering trips on the Kern River. For more details on any of the trips they offer, visit www.KernRafting or give their office a call at 1-800-323-4234.