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Longstreet Highroad Guide to the Tennessee Mountains By Vernon and Cathy Summerlin

Tennessee Mountains > Sidebars > Rapid Classification System

Rapid Classification System

The following rapid classification system is designed by the American Whitewater Affiliation. If the ambient temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or if the trip is an extended one into the wilderness, the river should be considered one class more difficult than normal to allow for the fatigue factor.

• Class I: Moving water with a few riffles and small waves. Few or no obstructions. Suitable for beginners.
• Class II: Easy rapids with waves up to 3 feet and wide, clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering is required. Suitable for novice boaters.
• Class III: Rapids with high, irregular waves often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that often require complex maneuvering. May require scouting from shore. Suitable for intermediate boaters.
• Class IV: Long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters. Scouting from shore is necessary, and conditions make rescue difficult. Generally not possible for open canoes. Boaters in covered canoes and kayaks should have the ability to Eskimo roll. Suitable only for boaters with advanced skills.
• Class V: Extremely difficult, long, and very violent rapids with highly congested routes, which should be scouted from shore. Rescue conditions are difficult, and there is a significant hazard to life in the event of a mishap. Ability to Eskimo roll is essential for boaters in kayaks and decked canoes. Suitable only for boaters with advanced skills.
• Class VI: The difficulties of Class V carried to the extreme. Nearly impossible and very dangerous. For teams of experts only after close study has been made and all precautions taken.

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Published (print): 1999, Published (Web): January 2003, ISBN: 1-56352-475-9

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