Forks of the Kern

Bird’s Eye View

The Forks of the Kern run is one of the best combinations of remote wilderness and high-adrenaline white water in California. In that regard, it’s a little like the Tuolumne, but cranked up a notch. Most boaters agree that the scenery is some of the best on any Sierra river, and definitely the top wilderness run in the southern Sierra.

Forks of the Kern River Whitewater Photo Gallery

The “Forks” in a Nutshell

Difficulty: Class IV+ – V

Gradient: 65 ft/mi

Length: 17 miles

Season: April – June

Put-in: Lloyds Meadow Campground

Take-out: Johnsondale Bridge

Who should go: Only expert kayakers and rafters should attempt this on their own, but several outfitters run the Forks.

Whitewater & Scenery

Two days won’t seem like enough time to experience some of the most stunning scenery in the California foothills, especially since paddlers spend most of their energy trying to safely navigate the countless Class IV and V rapids.