
Can I do big whitewater rapids, even if I am a first-timer?
Western River Expeditions matches the size of it's boats to the size of the whitewater, so in many ways it depends more on the raft you choose, or where you sit on that raft than which river you choose. If you can grip a rope and follow the guide's instructions, you are as ready as you need to be for starting out. On rivers where the rapids are more moderate (may vary on water levels), we may bring along paddleboats and inflatable kayaks to let the more adventurous get their thrill while the more conservative can simply grip the ropes on an oar-powered raft.
When the rapids are large (mid-high water Cataract Canyon and all season in Grand Canyon), we use our patented J-rig raft that is more stable and offers a very fun ride. Sit up front for the whitewater rodeo, or stay back in the middle of the raft (a.k.a. the "chicken coop") where things tend to "buck" a lot less.
Learn: J-Rig Raft for First-Timers