| *River Classifications Flatwater- There is little or no current,
and the river's surface is smooth and unbroken. paddling upstream is
easy.
Quickwater- The river moves fast. Its
surface is nearly smooth at high water levels, but likely to be
choppy at medium levels and shallow at low water levels.
Class I- Fast moving water with a riffles and small waves.
Few or no obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little
training. Risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II- Straight forward rapids with wide, clear channels
which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be
required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by
trained paddlers. Rapids with waves up to three feet
Class III- Rapids with high, irregular
waves which may be difficult to avoid often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that
often require complex maneuvering in fast current. Good boat control
required: large waves or strainers may be present. Strong eddies and
powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume
rivers. May require scouting from shore. Group assistance may
be required to avoid long swims.
Class IV- Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring
precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the
character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and
holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under
pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate
maneuvers, scout rapids or rest. Rapids may require "must"
moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting is necessary the
first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to
high, and water conditions may make self rescue difficult.
Class V- Extreme. These runs often exemplify the
extremes of difficulty, unpredictability, and danger. The
consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible.
For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close
personal inspection and taking all precautions.
(*AMC River Guide descriptions)
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