What are the rapids rated in the Grand Canyon?

As outlined above, the majority of the rapid systems in the Grand Canyon are rated as Class III rapids. However, the two largest rapids on the Colorado River, Crystal Rapid and Lava Falls, are often rated as Class IV+ rapids.



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The Grand Canyon is rated Class IV with few Class V rapids and numerous Class I – III rapids as well.

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Lava Falls is notorious for being the hardest rapid on the Grand Canyon, a class 9/10. It is river mile 179.2, one of the last big rapids. Luckily, it is possible to scout Lava Falls on either shore, depending on where you want to run the rapid and the flows.

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Cherry Creek—Upper Tuolumne, California A whopping 15 Class V rapids punish paddlers from mid-summer to September, because the high flows of spring make Cherry Creek too dangerous. Be prepared for drops, undercurrents and lots of boulders on this tough and technical section.

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While other rivers follow a whitewater rating system of I-V, Grand Canyon rapids are rated on a scale of 1-10. Some of these rapids are extremely difficult to run unless you are a very experienced river runner who has run similar-sized rapids in the past successfully.

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The Yellowstone River is classified as Class II-III rapids from Yellowstone National Park to Paradise Valley (the first 18 miles of legally navigable whitewater on the Yellowstone River).

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While most people can raft Class 4 rapids for their first time, there are several requirements. The minimum age to raft Class 4 rivers, depending on the river and company, is 12-14 years old. Many Class 4s recommend that you are in good physical condition, on the adventurous side, and know how to swim.

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Feel the thrill of being at the river's edge! White Water Walk offers a first-hand lesson in the raw power and peril of the Niagara River's Class 6 whitewater rapids, some of the wildest in North America.

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  • White Nile, Uganda. Shutterstock.


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Upper Tuolumne River (Cherry Creek), California Cherry Creek is the gold standard for Class V and is the hardest section of commercially rafted whitewater in the United States. Rapids like Mushroom (V), Toadstool (V), and Lewis's Leap (V) challenge even the most experienced river guides.

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These rapids are often best saved for those who have rafted before, but that doesn't necessarily rule out the first-time adventure-seekers. If you're in great shape and ready for a physical and mental challenge, you may be ready for Class IV rapids rafting trip on your first river expedition.

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Rapids are long and unpredictable with large waves and narrow passages. This is the highest classification for commercial rafting trips requiring strong paddlers who are experienced and looking for the ultimate. Small waterfalls, drops and holes are common.

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