Yosemite is widely known for its magnificent national park—which is home to many animals and plants. It is popular among tourists and families as many activities can be done in this park as groups, be it with family, friends, and even colleagues for a work outing. Due to its popularity, Yosemite Valley is open the whole year, including winter, when it hosts several winter activities. One of the most popular attractions that you can do in Yosemite National Park is rafting. It’s probably not for everyone, but once you’ve got a hold of it, rafting can be an exciting outdoor activity to do as a group. Keep reading the article to find out more about rafting in Yosemite, California.
1. OARS Whitewater Rafting
Posted by OARS - Whitewater Rafting on Wednesday, 21 August 2019
As the pioneer of whitewater rafting, OARS prides itself as the first in the industry that got recognised by National Park Service to provide rafting trips in the Western United States, including the Grand Canyon. Up to this day, OARS is offering itineraries for different kinds of clients and activities—such as Class IV or V rafting. The organisers not only provide routes and equipment for the main excitement but also make sure guests feel most comfortable while in their hands. Services include the safety briefing (which prioritises teamwork) and what’s becoming the favourite among guests and staff—snacks and cooked lunch while doing the activities. OARS believes that it’s not always about the number of people in the group or how many times they have dealt with familiar situations—focusing on experience is more important when it comes to entertaining guests, such that both organisers and guests would have unforgettable stories to tell.
OARS Whitewater Rafting
Address: PO Box 67, Angels Camp, CA
Website: OARS Whitewater Rafting
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 6pm (closed on Sat - Sun)
Price: From 149 USD
2. Sierra Mac River Trips
Posted by Sierra Mac River Trips on Thursday, 15 August 2019
Whether it is your first time rafting or you’re a regular suspect, Sierra Mac River Trips is an excellent choice to get you paddling along the river in Yosemite National Park. The experienced and friendly staff will prepare you for the activity with their knowledge of the area—also for the excitement that’s waiting for you. Sierra Mac offers several packages for Class IV and Class V rafting adventures. Before choosing the rafting package for your group, it would be better to discuss beforehand which one is most suitable for the whole team—the packages depend on your level of experience in rafting. The appointed guides are already familiar with the area, and they will prioritise your safety and will always make sure the group has a good time throughout the journey. If you’re a beginner in rafting, the guides will also assist you in working your paddle and building teamwork to make your rafting experience more exciting and safe.
Sierra Mac River Trips
Address: P.O. Box 264, Groveland, CA
Website: Sierra Mac River Trips
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 6am - 9pm
Price: From 263 USD
3. Whitewater Excitement
Being a family-founded-and-owned company makes Whitewater Excitement an expert in creating family-friendly itineraries. Their professional guides are great with inexperienced kids and teenagers, as well as towards those who are more familiar with Class IV rafting. Whitewater Excitement takes the route along Merced River, near Yosemite Valley. The guides even have their own highlights along the path and give names to several points—which excite guests when they paddle on the certain spots mentioned. The staff takes the excitement of outdoor fun to heart. From the start of the trip, guides will ensure everyone understands the safety protocols by explaining them thoroughly.
Whitewater Excitement
Address: PO Box 5992, Auburn, CA
Website: Whitewater Excitement
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (April - September); Tue - Thu: 10am - 4pm (October - March)
Price: From 145 USD
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4. Curry Village Raft Rentals
Formerly known as Half Dome Village, Curry Village Raft Rentals is probably the most famous outdoor facility in Yosemite Valley. Not only does it have a variety of cabin types that you can rent for your activities, but the property also owns a broad range of facilities that the guests can use to make their visit even more exciting and comfortable. To name a few, Curry Village Raft Rentals offers an amphitheatre, bike rentals, a pizza parlour and coffee shop, and a seasonal swimming pool—also an ice-skating rink in winter. The guides who will take you rafting are professionals and friendly, know the area well, and will ensure your safety during the journey.
Curry Village Raft Rentals
Address: 9010 Curry Village Dr, Yosemite National Park, CA
Website: Curry Village Raft Rentals
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm (mid March - New Year); Sat - Sun: 9am - 6pm (off-season)
Price: From 84 USD
5. Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions
The weather is warming up and the water is perfect! Join us for some fun in the sun and on the river this spring and...
Posted by ZEPHYR WHITEWATER RAFTING on Monday, 22 April 2019
Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions have been offering the excitement of whitewater rafting since 1973, and it’s only understandable that the company has become experts in making guests feel good and giving them a memorable experience. The family that manages Zephyr Whitewater has put a lot of thought on their business, ensuring the best standards—from the kind of raft used to explore the river to the equipment worn by the professional guides.
Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions
Address: PO Box 510, Columbia, CA
Website: Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 2pm (river season); Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (off-season)
Price: From 94 USD
Have an adventure of a lifetime in Yosemite!
Going outdoor to do exciting activities is always a great option for all ages, from families with children to working people. Rafting gives you an adrenaline rush, and your adventure is made even more enjoyable when accompanied by great food and a comfortable place to rest. Time to make plans!
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