This journey is perfect for anyone seeking a fast, rejuvenating escape into the wilderness without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for those who love outdoor adventure but also appreciate gourmet meals, soft beds, and thoughtful hospitality. Whether you’re eager to experience California’s legendary Class IV whitewater in a safe, supported environment, enjoy active days followed by relaxed evenings by the river, or are a first-time rafter ready to learn—or a seasoned paddler seeking your next great run—this trip delivers. It’s also for those who value social connection, sharing memorable moments with friends old and new, and who prefer a backcountry setting that feels elevated and intentional rather than rustic.
Welcome to the Kern River
4 Day World Class Rafting in the Sierra Foothills
Length of trip: 4 days | Group Size: 12-24 | Activity Level: 3
Dates: June 26-29th, 2026 | Price: from $1,895
This Trip is For: Solos, couples, friends
Discover one of California’s most iconic whitewater rivers – this 4-day adventure blends world-class Class III–IV rafting, Wilderness Medicine training, 2 nights in a cozy Kernville lodge and a final night stay in a safari-style camp tucked deep in a high-desert canyon on the Kern. Journey through towering granite walls, swirling pools, and warm summer waters by day… gourmet food with comfy accommodations under a star filled sky and gentle river sounds at night – its a perfect backdrop for a long weekend escape.
Featured in Travel + Leisure, the Kern River Safari offers a uniquely action-packed yet deeply restorative wilderness experience—perfect for first-time rafters in good health and seasoned paddlers alike.
Trip Highlights
- 4-day Kern River adventure through stunning high desert canyon
- Big, clean Class III–IV summer whitewater
- Safari-style riverside camp with walk-in tents & private decks
- Gourmet meals, sunset appetizers & relaxing riverside evenings
- Easy access: short drive from LA & Palm Springs; direct flights from SFO, PHX & DEN
- Perfect pairing with Sequoia National Park, Kernville exploration & world-class fly fishing
- Ideal for adventurous beginners & seasoned paddlers
- International Wilderness Life Support (IWLS) Certification & CME for Medical Professionals
- WFA certification for non-medical professionals
Dates:
June 26th-29th, 2026
Cost: $1895
PEOPLE & PLACE
Why This Trip Is For You
This journey is designed for those who:
- Want a fast, rejuvenating escape into the wilderness—without sacrificing comfort
- Love outdoor adventures but also appreciate great food, soft beds & thoughtful hospitality
- Are looking to experience California’s legendary Class IV whitewater in a safe, supported environment
- Enjoy active days and relaxed evenings by the river
- Are new to rafting but eager to learn—or seasoned paddlers looking for their next great river
- Want a social experience—shared with friends old and new
- Prefer a backcountry setting that feels elevated rather than rustic
If “adventure + comfort” sounds like your style, this trip is your perfect fit.
Itinerary at a Glance
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1, June 26: Welcome to Kernville! Settle in at our cozy riverside hotel and join us for a Meet and Greet Happy Hour just a block away! Evening is yours to enjoy. Welcome to the Kern.
Day 2, June 27: Breakfast burritos, Wilderness Medicine training (WFA or IWLS) and a scenic riverside float, with lunch and dinner included. Don’t want to do the training? No problem, we have lots of other options for adventures!
Day 3, June 28: Our 2 day river safari begins! Paddle Class III–IV rapids and spend the night at the safari-style Kern River Camp with gourmet meals under the stars.
Day 4, June 29: Coffee and breakfast at our riverside camp, then head out on the water to tackle the Big 5 Rapids, and return to Kernville in the early afternoon…Its a perfect long weekend getaway.
Download Free Detailed Itinerary
Itinerary - Kern
Deluxe Riverside Safari Camp
Our third night of the trip is hosted at a deluxe riverside safari camp. After a day of paddling through the Kern’s rapids, you will raft into this beautiful camp tucked along a quiet stretch of riverbank. This camp blends the serenity of wilderness living with thoughtful touches that make you feel instantly at home. There are cozy and spacious walk-in canvas tents that are already set up for you, with plush sleeping pads, bedding and a porch to lounge on after an adventure-packed day. It’s camping, elevated.
Kern River
Nestled along the banks of the Kern River, Kernville is a quaint mountain town that perfectly blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure. Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada foothills, it’s a gateway to world-class rafting, hiking, and fishing, with boutique shops, local cafés, and friendly inns that make it a welcoming base for exploring the river and canyon. Summer evenings here are warm and inviting, offering the perfect backdrop to unwind after a day on the water.
Course Information
Wilderness Medicine Certification Courses
We are offering two options for Wilderness Medicine Certifications for this 4 day trip: one for medical professionals (IWLS, International Wilderness Life Support) and one for non-medical professionals (WFA, Wilderness First Aid)
Option 1: International Wilderness Life Support Certification
A certification course designed for medical professionals who love adventuring in the outdoors, traveling and/or medical volunteering in remote settings. Learn hands-on medical skills that you can take anywhere in the world. Learn more HERE
Who is this Course For?
Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, RNs, Paramedics/EMTs
Option 2: Wilderness First Aid Certification (for non-medical professionals)
If you are a non-medical professional, we will also be hosting a Wilderness First Aid certification on Tuesday June 27th. Learn more about our hybrid one-day Wilderness First Aid certification course HERE
To learn more about our courses, please click the button below.
Who this Trip is For
All Levels Welcome
Price & Dates
Trip Cost: from $1895
Dates: June 26th-29th, 2026
***Optional IWLS Certification: $795
*** Optional WFA Certification $395
Includes:
- 2 nights stay in riverside Kernville Inn walking distance to shops and restaurants
- 1 night stay in elevated safari style river camp
- 3 nutritions meals each day
- Evening Happy Hours
- Optional morning yoga/movement classes
- Dry bags and personal floatation devices (PFD’s) are also included for our guests
Excluded:
- Transportation/flights to Kernville, California
- Extra hotels (before and after trip)
- Travel Insurance
- Guide Gratuities
Why MedTreks?
The Kern River Safari is a 4-day getaway designed for medical professionals seeking adventure, connection, and a little R&R. Just a short drive from LA, paddle Class III–IV rapids, sleep under starry skies, and unwind in comfort with gourmet meals and cozy tents. Thoughtfully crafted by Momentum River Expeditions and co-hosted by our MedTreks team, this trip blends wilderness medicine, outdoor adventure, relaxation, CME learning, and community. Let our expert guides handle the details so you can focus on adventure, connection, and recharging.
