This information is for your whitewater enjoyment : Classes of rapids: This is an abbreviation of the International Scale of Whitewater Classification that runs from Class I (easy) to Class VI (extreme).

In between, all sorts of rapids are grouped allowing you to anticipate the degree of difficulty of a particular river section before undertaking it. It should be noted that rivers are increased one class group when they are in spring conditions or are located in a wilderness area. A river that is rated Class IV will therefore become Class V in the early season.

Class I: flat water, small current, easy for open canoe

Class II: Small waves, some obstructions that are easily avoided, spirited water for open canoe.

Class III: Large waves, hydraulics, eddies with surging boils, but routes are straightforward with little objective danger. Advanced water for open canoe without special rigging.

Class IV: Exciting waves and hydraulics, strong eddies, routes requiring precise maneuvers, long wave trains. Not recommended for open canoes, advanced water for kayakers.

Class V: Heavy whitewater with serious objective hazards, steep drops, heavy volume, exploding waves, major hydraulics. Precision maneuvers with no errors are required.

Water level chart for the Rouge River