KERNVILLE RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Lickety Blaster: Two Runs on the Kern That Let You Learn by Doing
A 2–3 hour Kern River rafting trip out of Kernville that runs March–August and puts you through the Lickety Split twice so you can refine your lines on real rapids.
Lickety Blaster: Two Runs on the Kern That Let You Learn by Doing.
On the Kern River near Kernville, the Lickety Blaster is a compact, repeat-run rafting trip that packs a full whitewater lesson into roughly two to three hours. Operated by Sierra South Mountain Sports, the popular March–August run sends parties down the Lickety Split, brings them back upriver, then runs the same stretch again so paddlers can apply newly learned skills and, when conditions allow, try more challenging lines.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Popular, Skill-Building Run
The Lickety Blaster is the operator’s most popular trip and deliberately gives paddlers two runs on the same stretch so they can practice and refine technique between descents.
Run It Twice — Then Push the Lines
After the initial Lickety Split run the group heads back upriver for a second descent; guides may attempt more difficult lines on the second run when water levels make them possible.
When the River Is Running
This trip operates from March through August with scheduled departures each day—making it a reliable spring and summer option for families and groups.
What the day feels like
What the Experience Feels Like
Expect a compact, focused whitewater outing: a first Lickety Split run to experience the rapids, a return upriver, then a second descent where you put newly honed skills to use and, depending on water levels, your guide may steer you through more demanding lines. The whole sequence takes approximately two to three hours and is designed to escalate challenge and confidence within a single outing.
THE ROUTE
A Popular, Skill-Building Run
The Lickety Blaster is the operator’s most popular trip and deliberately gives paddlers two runs on the same stretch so they can practice and refine technique between descents.
THE FORMAT
Run It Twice — Then Push the Lines
After the initial Lickety Split run the group heads back upriver for a second descent; guides may attempt more difficult lines on the second run when water levels make them possible.
THE SEASON
When the River Is Running
This trip operates from March through August with scheduled departures each day—making it a reliable spring and summer option for families and groups.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trips operate March through August with daily departure times commonly at 10:00 am and 1:30 pm.
Plan for approximately 2–3 hours on the water for the full Lickety Blaster experience.
Wear footwear that will stay on in the water—no flip-flops or bare feet; tennis shoes, secure water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap are required. Wetsuits are not required but are highly recommended prior to late May or early June when the water is colder. Bring cash if you plan to tip your guide.
Trips require a minimum of four guests; small children may be weighed. Be aware all trips may be adjusted based on water levels and other conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Lickety Blaster trip?
The trip is approximately 2–3 hours.
When does this trip operate?
The Lickety Blaster runs March through August with typical trip times at 10:00 am and 1:30 pm.
What are the age and weight requirements?
Minimum age is 8 and minimum weight is 50 lbs (small children may be weighed); maximum weight is 300 lbs.
Do I need a wetsuit?
Wetsuits are not required but are highly recommended prior to late May or early June when the water is colder.
What footwear is required?
You must wear shoes that will stay on in the water: tennis shoes, water shoes, or sandals with a heel strap. No flip-flops or bare feet are allowed.
Does the price include gratuity or booking fees?
Price does not include gratuity; bring cash for tips. A 6% online booking convenience fee is included in online bookings.