Welcome to whitewater paradise - the Forks of the Kern. Designated by Congress in 1987, as a National Wild and Scenic River, this section of the Kern River pirouettes through some of the finest raftable whitewater in North America. The Forks is a nearly continuous series of class IV and V rapids and waterfalls.

RIVER FACTS

• Difficulty: Class V (expert)
• Put-in: Forks of the Kern
• Take-out: Johnsondale Bridge, Brush Creek or Willow Point
• Length: approximately 17 miles
• Gradient: 60 feet per mile
• Run Levels: 1,000-4,000 cubic feet per second

LOCATION

The launch point begins 45 miles north of Kernville, at the confluence of the Little Kern River with the main Kern and is accessible only by trail. Travel north of Kernville via Mt. 99 to Johnsondale. Half-a-mile past Johnsondale turn right and take the Lloyd Meadow Road (22S82) north for 15 miles. Turn right again at the dirt road (20S67) marked "Forks of the Kern" and proceed to the end of the road (approx. 3-miles) to the Forks Trailhead. The hike to the launch point is down a 3-mile long, narrow, rocky trail which descends steeply to the Kern River.

GETTING EQUIPMENT TO RIVER

For most whitewater enthusiasts, getting equipment down the 3-mile trail to the Forks put-in will require the use of pack horses or mules. For details on renting animals, contact Golden Trout Wilderness Pack Trains, P.O. Box 756, Springville, CA 93265. Summer phone: 559-542-2816. Winter phone: 559-539-2744.

RIVER MANNERS

You will be required to obtain a campfire permit before venturing down from the Forks Trailhead. A shovel and a fire pan are required. Extinguish all fires completely with water using the down, stir, and feel method.

COMMERCIAL OPERATORS

Five whitewater rafting companies are authorized by the Forest Service to provide whitewater boating outfitter and guide service on the Forks of the Kern. Please contact the rafting companies directly for more information or reservations.

PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

Please go to the Passes and Permits webpage for a detailed explanation of river permit requirements for the Forks of the Kern.

SEASON AND WATER FLOW

Late spring and early summer is recommended for boating the Forks Run. Water flows are dependent on snow melt and natural runoff. Changes in water flow may drastically change river conditions. Daily water flow information is available from the Kernville Ranger Station 760-376-3781 or the Lake Isabella Visitor Center at 760-379-5646.

TRIP TIPS

• Prior to your trip, check with the ranger station for local road conditions.
• Paddlers should have at least previous Class IV paddlers experience.
• The Forks should be attempted only by healthy, active, rugged people with strong swimming skills.
• Carson Falls and the Vortex may require portage; scouting mandatory; be prepared.
• Water temperatures can be extremely cold; carry a wet suit. Watch for signs of hypothermia.
• If renting pack animals to transport equipment, remember to bring collapsible frames and oars.
• Carry waterproof trash and waste bags. Secure these bags so they will remain with the boat in the event of a flip.
• Lightweight hiking boots for the hike down to the Forks are recommended.
• Water from streams may contain a parasite known as Giardia, which can cause flu like systems. Heat water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes before using.
• Poison oak can be recognized at a glance by its triple leaf pattern. The leaves change color with the season. Avoid contact with it and wear protective clothing.