KERNVILLE RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Lickety Split Rafting: Kern River’s punchy, family-ready Class II–III run
A 1–1.5 hour Class II–III rafting trip on the Kern River, run March–August, this guide distills what to expect, what to bring, and who it suits.
Lickety Split Rafting: Kern River’s punchy, family-ready Class II–III run.
The Lickety Split on the Kern River is Sierra South’s most popular, affordable Class II–III outing: a short, focused run that tosses paddlers through a sequence of named rapids and scenic canyon water in roughly an hour to an hour and a half—big enough to be thrilling, compact enough for families and first-timers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three miles of compact whitewater
The Lickety Split packs approximately three miles of river into a 1–1.5 hour trip, moving teams of paddlers through a succession of rapids for a high-energy, short-duration experience.
Named rapids — Big Daddy to Freight Train
The route hits well-known Kern features — Big Daddy, Sidewinder, Freight Train and Ewings — sequences that deliver the trip’s primary thrills while remaining accessible to beginners.
Built for beginners and families
Marketed as Sierra South’s most popular and most affordable trip, the Lickety Split is intentionally designed to challenge a wide range of ages—from young children (meeting age/weight minimums) to older relatives—making it the go-to choice for first-timers.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
A Sierra South river guide runs a concise pre-trip briefing and paddle talk, outfits the group with paddling gear, then launches you for three packed miles of Kern River whitewater: quick eddies, short drops and a handful of named rapids that create a rhythm of anticipation and payoff across roughly one to one and a half hours on the water.
THE ROUTE
Three miles of compact whitewater
The Lickety Split packs approximately three miles of river into a 1–1.5 hour trip, moving teams of paddlers through a succession of rapids for a high-energy, short-duration experience.
THE RAPIDS
Named rapids — Big Daddy to Freight Train
The route hits well-known Kern features — Big Daddy, Sidewinder, Freight Train and Ewings — sequences that deliver the trip’s primary thrills while remaining accessible to beginners.
THE CROWD
Built for beginners and families
Marketed as Sierra South’s most popular and most affordable trip, the Lickety Split is intentionally designed to challenge a wide range of ages—from young children (meeting age/weight minimums) to older relatives—making it the go-to choice for first-timers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear shoes that will stay on in the water—no flip-flops or bare feet. Tennis shoes, water shoes or sandals with heel straps are required; bring cash if you plan to tip your guide.
Wetsuits are not required but are highly recommended prior to late May or early June when the water remains colder.
Trips leave on schedule; arrive prepared and on time for your selected departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Lickety Split trip?
The trip runs approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
When does the trip operate?
The Lickety Split operates March through August, with listed trip times at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
What are the age and weight restrictions?
Minimums are age 8 and 50 lbs (staff may weigh small children); maximum weight per participant is 300 lbs.
What happens if my trip doesn’t meet the minimum number of guests?
All trips require a minimum of four guests; if minimums are not met the operator will notify you and provide options for your trip to go.
Are wetsuits required?
Wetsuits are not required but are highly recommended prior to late May or early June when water is colder.
Is gratuity included in the price?
Price does not include gratuity; if you wish to tip your guide, bring cash for tips.
Who operates the Lickety Split trip?
The trip is operated by Sierra South Mountain Sports.