So You Won a River Permit, Now What? A Guide to Preparing for Your White Water Adventure.
Congratulations, you've won the river lottery!
The coveted private river float permit! Now it's time to start planning for an unforgettable adventure on the water. From curating your team of boatmen and passengers to preparing all the necessary gear, here's a quick outline to help you get ready for your river rafting trip.
1. Curate Your Team
Selway River, Idaho 2018
Assemble a team of experienced and reliable individuals who share your passion for adventure and respect for nature, aka your fellow “River Rats”. Depending on the river you may be allowed up to 30 people under your permit. Each boat will need an experienced “Boatmen” or “Rower” and a few back up Rowers in the mix of passengers. Consider factors such as each person's rafting experience, physical fitness, and compatibility with the group is essential. Ensure everyone is committed to the trip and willing to contribute to the planning process. The gear individuals own that they can contribute to the trip should also be a factor for consideration.
2. Choose Your Gear
Once you have your head count it’s time to put the gear list together. Who’s bringing what? Since this is a private float permit you will need to acquire ALL the necessary gear for your river rafting trip, including rafts, paddles, life jackets, helmets, full camp kitchen, coolers (so many coolers), groover toilets, tables, hand washing stations, and all other personal camping equipment. Make sure all gear is in good condition and meets the requirements of the river you'll be rafting.
Chances are your group will need to rent some or all of the gear which is very common. Contact the local outfitter near your river, they are a great resource for anything you might be missing.
Check out this essential personal gear:
3. Plan Your Itinerary
Develop a detailed itinerary for your trip, including the launch and takeout points, planned campsites, and daily mileage. Consider factors such as water levels (CFS), weather conditions, and the skill level of your group when planning your itinerary. Leave some flexibility in your schedule for unexpected delays or changes. Depending how flexible your time is you might also want to plan a “layover day” at your favorite campsite.
4. Arrange Shuttle Services
Coordinate shuttle services to transport your group and gear to the launch point and from the takeout point. Research local shuttle services or arrange for a friend to help with transportation if possible. Ensure everyone knows the shuttle plan and has contact information for the shuttle service.
5. Prepare for Safety
Safety should always be a top priority when rafting. Familiarize yourself with the river's specific hazards and safety guidelines. Ensure everyone in your group is trained in basic river rescue techniques and knows how to respond in case of an emergency. Always pack a first aid kit and emergency supplies.
It doesn't hurt to invite someone who happens to be a Doctor, Registered Nurse or Paramedic along on your trip for added peace of mind.
Having a satellite communication device is a must have in the wilderness.
6. Pack Food and Supplies
Plan your meals and pack all the food and supplies you'll need for the duration of your trip. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences in your group when planning meals. Pack plenty of electrolytes and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your adventure. A common way to plan meals is dividing people up into smaller groups and then each group will be in charge of one dinner and one breakfast. Then prep those meals as much as you can before the trip so limited prep is needed while on the river.
It is important to pack your coolers according to the days they will be used so they are not opened until the day they are needed. Seven days can be a challenge to keep your food preserved if you are “shopping” in your coolers everyday.
Clear expectations of everyone’s responsibilities on the river before the trip is essential for group success. This example chore division has served us well:
16 person trip = 4 teams of 4.
Monday:
Groovers - Group 1
Cooking (Dinner & Breakfast) - Group 2
Dishes - Group 3
Off - Group 4
Then chores rotate everyday. Even though the sort of people that get invited on rafting trips are always helpful and willing to pitch in, it’s best practice to have clear expectations of these basic everyday duties to ensure fair distribution of chores.
7. Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all trash, use groover toilets, avoid camping in fragile areas, stick to the trails and respect wildlife and other river users. Leave the river as beautiful as you found it or better for future generations to enjoy.
8. Enjoy Your Adventure
Finally, it's time to embark on your river rafting adventure! Enjoy the thrill of the rapids, the beauty of the wilderness, and the camaraderie of your fellow river rats. Enjoy this opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in nature.
Winning a river permit is just the beginning of an incredible adventure. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for you and your team. Go make memories that will last a lifetime.
Check out our Grand Canyon Rafting trip.