NOTE: Cold water temperatures, below 50 degrees,
and extended trips in remote areas increase normal difficulty by one class
level.
Moving water with a few riffles
and small waves. Few or no obstructions.
Easy rapids with waves up to three
feet and wide, clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering
is required.
Rapids with high, irregular waves
often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that often require
complex maneuvering. May require scouting from shore.
Long, difficult rapids with constricted
passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters.
Scouting from shore is often necessary, and conditions make rescue difficult.
Generally not possible for open canoes. Boaters in covered canoes and kayaks
should be able to Eskimo roll.
Extremely difficult, long, and very
violent rapids with highly congested routes which nearly always must be
scouted from shore. Rescue conditions are difficult and there is a significant
hazard to life in event of a mishap. Ability to Eskimo roll is essential
for kayaks and canoes.
Difficulties of Class V carried
to the extreme of navigability. Nearly impossible and very dangerous. For
teams of experts only, after close study and with all precautions taken.
New York State Law requires all
boats and canoes must carry a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal floatation
device (PFD) for each person on board.