What to wear

Depending on your trip type (if it includes hiking/horseback riding/Mountain Biking), you may want to pack separate river clothes.

River Shoes – Wear sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet! Only wear sandals with straps (loose sandals will fall off if you happen to go in the water.) Flip flops will not work. Tennis shoes you don’t mind getting wet work great too.

River Clothes – Sun-protection and quick-dry clothes are key. Avoid cotton! Cotton won’t dry as quickly and will feel cold when wet. Check the conditions and layer appropriately. For sunny days, a sun shirt and hat (preferable with a strap) will always serve you well.

Dry Clothes – Whether you are hiking as part of your trip or simply want to be warm and dry after the river, you may bring a towel and dry clothes. You’ll be able to store your clothes in your vehicle, shuttle, or our office.

For early season or colder weather, add quick-drying layers and even wool or synthetic if you have it. 

What to bring

Water, sunscreen, hat and a great attitude!

Your guides will have small dry bags available for small personal items, but we recommend leaving all expensive jewelry and electronics at home. Your car keys and other small items can be left in our office or your shuttle vehicle. We highly recommend not taking your keys on the river!

What to expect

Your meeting place will depend on your trip (see Meeting Places). After arriving, your guide will go over some general information and the office staff will get you checked in. You will leave your car (and any extra personal items) at the meeting spot before shuttling over to the put-in location. Depending on your trip, rafting will end at the meeting spot or you will be shuttled back to the meeting spot.

Your guides will walk you through some safety aspects, get you fitted with all necessary safety gear and thermal garments depending on the day’s conditions, and will facilitate a fun, educational and safe day for you and your group. The Far Flung staff are all highly trained and caring professionals, so we like to encourage people that have a good time to remember their guide at the end of the day.  A 15%-20% cash tip (some guides have Venmo or PayPal) is greatly appreciated by our wonderful guides, shuttle drivers, and kitchen staff (if you are enjoying one our lovely lunches or dinners). Please inquire if you are unsure what the correct amount may be.

Your comfort and safety are our prime concern.  As with other nature-based activities, river-running has its inherent risks.  There are no guarantees.  Objectively speaking, though, whitewater rafting with experienced outfitters is safer than driving on the highway.  Although falling into the river is always possible, less than 2% of all guests will take an unplanned swim.

A large part of what makes whitewater thrilling, of course, is the sense of risk. One learns to conquer one’s own fears and apprehensions.  If you are physically fit, swim confidently and understand the river, the risks will be minimized. If not, your decision-making can mitigate the inherent risks by selecting a less ambitious trip.  When you contact us, we’ll take time to try and find a trip that is suitable for your age and fitness level.

We offer tours that run the continuum from mild to wild.  Far-Flung Adventures is rescue-ready: guides are trained and practiced in swift-water rescue and emergency first aid skills.  We also use the most advanced boating equipment, piloted by guides who have “been there” many times before.  We fit you with high-flotation life jackets and thermal protection garments, geared to that day’s conditions.  At the launch point we will walk through the common hazards of the trip and brief you on safety procedures that will help ensure a safe outcome for your adventure.

Check out this list of required and recommended items you will need in order to make the most out of your camping adventure. Remember, there is no such thing as being over-prepared! Also, if needed, we provide sleeping bags and sleeping pads. Tents and camping chairs are included. Please just let us know if you plan on bringing your own.

For a more in-depth document that you can download/print, please see our Gear Checklist

Recommended Gear:
These are things that a lot of people like to bring that really enhance their experience, but are not exactly “trip necessities”.