THE FORKS OF THE KERN:

Mile for mile, no stretch of whitewater in the U.S. compares to the Forks of the Kern. This 17.1 mile trip features huge Class V drops and continuous Class IV whitewater framed by some of the most spectacular canyon scenery in the west. Confusion, Vortex, Big Bean, and Carson Falls are the four biggest drops on the run.

Just getting to the put-in can be exciting, as it entails a two mile pack in. Most groups (particularly raft groups) elect to hire packers to bring in the heaviest of items. Once at the put-in, most groups spend the afternoon rigging and try to get a good night's sleep before putting on the next morning.

Kayakers have been known to run the Forks of the Kern as low as 300 CFS but rafts are not recommended at flows below 1000 CFS. A good cut-off for the most seasoned rafter is 4000 CFS. The gradient of the run is 64 feet per mile for the first 14.5 miles, and then down to 40 feet per mile there after. The shuttle drive is no problem, only 25 miles one-way (roughly two hours round-trip). Permits are required and can be obtained from the USFS.

THE UPPER KERN:

On the Upper Kern there are six different runs possible. Depending on who you ask, they are known as the Limestone Run, Fairview Run, Chamise Gorge Run, Gold Ledge Run, Camp 3 Run, and Powerhouse Run. The Chamise and Gold Ledge Run are the two most difficult of the six, dropping more than 60 feet per mile on each. Both are class IV+/V runs. The Limestone Run is perhaps the most favorite of the six and drops 44 feet per mile.

It is possible to combine runs but know where the portages are in advance. Inquire locally about known dangers. Salmon Falls (VI) is right after the take-out for the Chamise Gorge Run. After the Limestone Run there is a dam... Don't float over it. Scout takeouts in advance.

THE LOWER KERN:

The furthest south of any Sierra river, the Lower Kern River roars down a narrow canyon with more Class III - IV rapids than you'll find on California whitewater rivers twice as long. The water comes from Lake Isabella and the flows are reliable all summer long. The water temperature gets close to 70 degrees in the summer time.

Put-in for the Lower Kern is located 1/2 mile below the Highway 155 bridge. The first real rapid to encounter is .8 of a mile downstream, Wallow Rock (class III+). For the remainder of the run (18 miles) the river drops at a consistent 28 feet per mile. Shorter runs are possible as Highway 155 parallels the river for its entirety.

Because of the portage at the Royal Flush (class V-VI) bringing lots of gear is not recommended. But, because of road access, it is possible to do overnight trips with vehicle support.