Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get from guests. If you don’t see your question here, don’t hesitate to reach out — we love talking about rivers, gear, and everything that makes these trips special!
Before Your Trip
Do I need experience rafting before joining a trip?
Nope! We take first-timers rafters all the time. The guides are trained professionals and will teach you everything you need to know. You do need to be able to meet the Essential Eligibility Criteria. Don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about this! We love chatting about our trips.
What is the age limit?
Seven for most trips.
Why do you ask me for “boat preference”?
This helps us determine how many of each boat to bring. If we have an active group that wants lots of time in paddle boats and duckies (inflatable kayaks), we can plan accordingly. If there are seniors or small kids that want to ride and not paddle, we can plan for passengers as well as gear in the oar rafts. This is just a guide for us and isn’t etched in stone.
Where do we meet for the trip and how do I get there?
This varies depending on which river you will be joining us on! We have a comprehensive trip details PDF for each trip, and travel logistics are on page one.
On the River
Do the rafts flip?
Our guides make every effort to NOT flip the rafts, but it can happen on occasion. You will be instructed before getting in a boat on what to do if this occurs. Inflatable kayaks can and do flip more frequently. For this reason, helmets are required while in the inflatable kayaks.
Can people reach me on my river trip?
It is a definite challenge to get messages to you while you’re on the river. The NWRC office will make attempts to reach you in extreme circumstances only.
What if there’s an emergency?
Our trips carry satellite phones, but it’s important to know that they are strictly for emergency evacuation situations and not 100% reliable. Our trips flow through vast wilderness areas. The guides are well-versed in evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency, and how they handle the situation will depend on the severity of the injury and where your trip is located on the river.
Should I bring a camera?
There is always a chance that whatever you bring along rafting could be lost to the river. However, bringing a camera can capture special trip moments. We recommend that you store your camera in a case, in a ziploc bag, inside your dry bag. Pelican boxes provide the best waterproof protection and you could also use a disposable waterproof camera.
NWRC also brings a camera on each trip to take pictures for the group. After the trip, these photos are uploaded to a special section of our website for you to view. Guests can view these photos, upload their own photos, and download any of the photos for free. Only guests on your trip will have access to these photos.
Camping & Comfort
How can I bathe or wash my hair?
To keep the rivers free of chemicals, you should carry a bucket of water away from the river for washing. You can have a buddy help you pour water over your head, shampoo up and then rinse. You can use a soapy washcloth to wash yourself or bring wet wipes. You can also bring a sun shower if you’d like.
What about bathrooms?
The guides will set up a “groover,” which is a portable toilet, away from the campsite in a private location. The guides will also set up a handwashing station near the groover.
Any tips for feminine hygiene on a river trip?
Check out this blog for tips and tricks!
What is the camping gear like?
We provide camp chairs for everyone! We also have sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and tents available for no extra cost — you can request them on your trip registration form. Check out our camping gear blog to see what we have.
Do I need rain gear?
In June, you should be prepared for showers and possible cold temperatures. For July and August, even if the forecast is for sun, we recommend at the very least bringing a waterproof jacket in case of showers. Conditions can change rapidly on the river, and being prepared can make your trip more comfortable.
Are there a lot of bugs?
The cooler evening temperatures and rushing water keep mosquitoes from being a huge problem, but during the hot months and at the lower elevations, you may have some. If you or your children are sensitive to mosquitoes, you may want to bring repellent.
Guides & Gratuities
Should we tip the guides?
Tips are appreciated by the guides and normally range from 5–10% of your trip cost. Whether and how much you tip depends on your satisfaction with your guides and your financial means. You can give your tip to the head guide, who will distribute it equally among the crew. You can tip with cash, check, or Venmo. If you plan to tip with a check, please leave the name section blank — you’ll make it out to the head guide.
Can I request a certain guide?
You certainly can make requests, and we will try our best to make it happen, but we cannot guarantee that a specific guide will be on your trip — life happens! The best way to make a request is to give us a call in the office.
River Specific FAQS
Have a trip specific question not answered here? Check out the FAQ page for that river: