RIVER WATER CLASS LEVELS
This page gives basic information about the differences between river water class levels, and a few examples of rivers in the Kansas City area and the Ozarks. While we don’t have much whitewater in our region, the river class levels are helpful in comparing the level of “lively water” you’ll encounter. Rivers in the Kansas City area are flatwater, and we visit some rivers up to Class II in the Ozarks.
Always plan your river trip to match your skill level, and go with experienced river paddlers with good safety practices and a knowledge of river paddling. In “cold water season” (October through April) safety precautions are even more important. If you live in the Kansas City area (Kansas or Missouri) learn paddling and safety skills by joining Paddle KC paddling club and attending frequent monthly events. We have a lot of fun, and visit a lot of different rivers!
Class I: (Easy)
Moving water with small disturbances on the surface and a few small waves. There is little danger to swimmers.
Class II: (Novice/Beginner)
Faster moving water with easily avoided rocks, holes, and waves. Danger to swimmers is still slight but care must be taken.
Class III: (Intermediate)
Fast moving water containing various currents, waves, rocks, and holes that require skillful maneuvering to avoid. Swimmers could be at risk and may require help.
Class IV: (Advanced)
Strong rapids, large waves, unpredictable currents, big holes, and dangerous obstructions requiring multiple maneuvers to get through or around. Swimmers are at risk and will require help to be rescued.
Class V: (Expert)
All of the characteristics of Class IV with the added danger of being longer and containing more continuous features that may not be avoided. There is serious risk to swimmers and others may be of no help.
Class VI: (Unrunnable)
Only a team of experts who carefully plan every aspect of this expedition would have hope of surviving these rivers and rapids.
Examples of River Class Levels in Missouri and Kansas
Water class level will vary by river section and water levels.
- Niangua River is Class I with possible very easy Class II.
- Current River is Class I with occasional easy Class II.
- Eleven Point River is Class I and II.
- Elk River is Class I and II.
- St Francis River is Class I to III, with possible IV in high water and V in flood.
- Cassatot River is Class II to V.
Related Info
Join Paddle KC, Kansas City paddling club