Memorial Day weekend: Whitewater rafting

 Photo Credit: O.A.R.S.

 

A unique and heart-pounding weekend getaway is whitewater rafting. In the spring the snow pack from California’s majestic Sierra Nevada mountains melts and provides excellent flows for whitewater rafting throughout the summer. From college students to families, from do-it-yourself-small-budget to high-end luxurious, a rafting trip is a perfect way to start your summer.

For a family-friendly adventure, look no further than the South Fork of the American Rivers near Sacramento. O.A.R.S. has day trips starting at $99. Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time for these fun, Class III rapids as the run-off from the nearby Sierra Nevada’s keeps the river high, and the fun endless. For families, with children younger than seven, Merced River near Yosemite offers a gentle ride and unparalleled views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Rent rafts at the Curry Village Recreation Center (Tel. 209-372-8341; adults $26 and children $13.50 per person). Cost includes equipment and a tram ride back to the rental kiosk.

For the more adventurous, O.A.R.S. offers a Class III – IV one-day trips down the Merced River. Perfect for an affordable and memorable Memorial Day weekend is a camping in Yosemite, and perfect roller-coaster rapids. Combining the Merced River Rafting Trip with a day or two exploring adjacent the stunning Yosemite National Park is the perfect weekend getaway…especially for adrenaline junkies.

Class IV+ rapid one-day trips at the North Fork Stanislaus River are not for the faint-at-heart. This river includes the most technical Class IV whitewater rafting in California, racing by Giant Sequoia, the most massive trees you’ve ever seen. After a day of heart-pounding adventure, wander the chic town of Murphys, Queen of the Sierra. This up-and-coming wine country has dozens of family-owned boutique wineries all with tasting-rooms and within walking distance of one another.