A Brief Overview of Advanced Rapids for Kayakers

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Webster, NY, resident Jeffrey Alger recently spent four years as the athletic director of the North Tonawanda City School District. Beyond his work, Jeffrey (Jeff) Alger enjoys a physically active lifestyle that includes kayaking.

Kayaking enthusiasts should think twice before taking on a river that has been rated Class IV or higher, according to the International Scale of River Difficulty. While Class III rapids are considered doable for kayakers of intermediate skill, Class IV rivers are regarded as advanced and are characterized by rapids that are predictable, strong, and require exact handling of the kayak. 

Large, unavoidable waves and constricted passages present kayakers with additional challenges that must be met quickly under turbulent conditions. The risk of injury in Class IV rapids is moderate to high, with self-rescue often a difficult task.

Rivers beyond Class IV should be avoided even by advanced kayakers. These rapids are only for the most experienced kayakers in favorable conditions and after extensive scouting. Operator errors on these rivers can result in significant injuries.