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Daycations: Nature’s Amusement Park – Kernville, California
By Aly Wagonseller
Amusement parks are synonymous with summer fun. Death defying roller coasters, thrilling water rides and a barrage of glitzy attractions, all designed with a single goal in mind–to satisfy the adrenaline junky that lurks within us all. But contrary to popular belief, Disney, Six Flags and Universal Studios are not the only places where you can scream to the extreme. There’s a thrill ride designed by our very own Mother Nature, and you’ll find it in Kernville, California.
Wet and Wild
Located just four and a half hours from Las Vegas near Bakersfield, Kernville is home to the Kern River, a 155 mile long waterway of roaring rapids offering arguably the best white water river rafting experience closest to home. Warm temperatures (usually well above the century mark in July and August) and chilly run-off water from the Sierra Nevada Mountains create great rafting conditions through mid August. Blessed with a variety of extremes, from mellow Class II rapids for docile down time and turbo squirt gun ambushes to jaw clenching Class V rapids that’ll satisfy the near death cravings of the most intense outdoor enthusiast, Kern river is a great summer weekend alternative.
Besides providing opportunities to let out a wail, rafting promotes team building skills and is a great way for families or groups to come together for a common goal. Navigating the tougher rapids requires listening to your guide and paddling when instructed in an effort to “surf” the best waves and get the most splash for your buck. It’s also a wonderful way to take in the beauty of nature, including giant herons that sun along the banks of the river and more than 200 species of birds.
You Can Handle It
Much like a roller coaster ride, you’ll need to pick the adventure you can handle, i.e. one that won’t endanger your child or cause your own coronary event. In Kernville, that’s a cinch, as there are several rafting outfitters ready to create the perfect trip for you and your family. All excursions have at least one guide onboard that’s been professionally certified for safety and emergency situations (a requirement by law), and many are intimately familiar with the area, providing information on points of interest and coveted fishing spots. Reservations are a must, and each outfitter will provide a list of gear, clothing and things you need (and don’t need) prior to your arrival.
Wetting Your Rafting Appetite
There are several trips for beginning rafters. Mountain & River Adventures (www.mtnriver.com; 800-861-6553) is a popular outfitter for river rafting, kayaking, hiking and bike excursions. They offer a variety of trips perfect for the novice or faint at heart, including one or two hour, half, full and two day runs that include excellent food served at their riverside camp facility. The “Double Blitz” is a great option for those wanting to experience river rafting but still have time for other activities. You’ll get wet from head to toe on Class II and III rapids and learn valuable paddling skills that can be used on more difficult runs, all while keeping the anxiety level at a comfy minimum. The run takes about two and a half hours, does not include food, and costs $46 for kids under 12 and $54 for adults. Full day trips that include lunch start just under $200 pp; two day trips that plunge you into more challenging Class IV rapids on day two are priced around $400 pp.
For the More Adventuresome
The Upper Kern is the tiger of the river, welcoming the more experienced or courageous rafter with mile after mile of Class IV and V rapids. Destined to send your adrenaline into overdrive, you’d be wise to expect an airborne body launch or two, with the river serving as a refreshingly chilly landing pool. Most trips have age restrictions, and half, full and two day excursions are priced comparably to the Lower Kern trips, so it’s twice the rush for the same amount of cash. For a list of additional rafting outfitters in Kernville, visit www.kernrivervalley.com.
When Not on the River
If you choose to do a little more than ride the rapids, Kernville has several other options to pass the time. Excellent trout fishing can be had right along the river bed, and word has it that throwing in your line near the historic Powerhouse structure up river provides great odds for a Big Bertha catch of the day. Fly fishing is outstanding, with instruction, as well as guided tours in the Sequoia National Forest, being offered by Kern River Fly Fishing (www.kernriverflyfishing.com; 866-347-4876.) Most local markets sell two day fishing licenses for about $20.
Boating, jet skiing, wind surfing and sailing are available just up the road on Isabella Lake, with North Fork Marina (760-376-1812) or French Gulch Marina (760-379-8774) ready to take your rental reservation. Golfing, horseback riding and hiking are also possibilities, but don’t miss the Trail of 100 Giants in the majestic Giant Sequoia National Monument forest. The 45-minute mountain drive is worth the breathtaking views of the river, waterfalls and giant Sequoia trees.
When Day is Done
Accommodations in Kernville range from mom and pop motels and bed and breakfast establishments, to riverside campgrounds. Beautifully manicured grounds with a walkway to the river, outdoor decks with comfy Adirondack chairs and a sparkling swimming pool set Whispering Pines Lodge Bed and Breakfast (www.kernvalley.com/inns; 760-376-3733) apart from the rest. The rooms (some with small kitchenettes and all with refrigerators) are large and exceptionally clean, and most are close enough to hear the relaxing song of the trickling Kern at night. Breakfast–a variety of fruit, cereal and homemade baked goods as well as made to order eggs, pancakes, potatoes and meat–is included and served in a lovely little dining room with crocheted table cloths and country furnishings.
Amusement doesn’t have to come from the best new ride with Mickey ears to match. A trip to Kernville, CA is nature’s way to find a thrill.
Top Picks for Breakfast, Beers and a Burger
As is typical in most small towns, the main street diner is where it’s at, with Kernville’s best bet for homemade country grub being Cheryl’s Diner, located at 11030 Kernville Rd. Whether you’re just passing through or among the many regulars that Cheryl’s obviously attracts, you’ll encounter a super friendly staff serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties that include a chicken fried steak, egg, biscuits and gravy platter that’s lip smackin’ tasty.
Later in the day, when it’s time to take the adrenaline flow down a notch or two, there’s nothing more appealing than a brew and a burger at The Kern River Brewing Co., located at 13145 Sierra Hwy. Beers brewed on the premises range from the Class V Stout to the lighter Isabella Blond. Burgers are huge, juicy and delish (especially the Ortega Burger) and come with an ample helping of waffle fries to soak up all those suds. You can even get jugs-o-brewski to go. It just doesn’t get better than that!
