The Lower Kern - Class IV
11.7 miles, 37 fpm, year around run
The Kern is the bread and butter run for Los Angeles since it flows through the southernmost part of the Sierra and has great whitewater. The Lower Kern has nearly year around flows due to a very reliable release from Lake Isabella.
This whitewater run starts with occasional Class III and IV rapids for the first five miles. Around mile 5, you should look out for the Class V+ rapid, Royal Flush that is normally portaged by using the portage trail on river right. Royal Flush is a huge rapid with a series of holes and a dangerous undercut wall on the left that current drives into. Hot shot river guides will occasionally run this rapid and it should be taken seriously.
Below here is a great section of Class III and IV rapids including the especially fun Horseshoe Falls. Ther are a number of take outs and most people will stop just above Democrat Hot Springs.
You will need a Forest Service permit to float this section of whitewater. Permits can be obtained at the Isabella Ranger Station nearby or at the Cannell Ranger Station in Kernville.
Email
This Page