BAKERSFIELD RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
The Blaster: A Short, Splashy Kern River Run Through Bakersfield
A lively 3.5-mile, roughly two-hour Class II–III stretch on the Kern River from the mouth of Kern Canyon to Lake Ming—this guide lays out what to expect and what to pack.
The Blaster: A Short, Splashy Kern River Run Through Bakersfield.
The Blaster is a signature whitewater run on the Kern River that threads a compact 3.5-mile corridor from the mouth of Kern Canyon down to the Lake Ming take-out near Bakersfield. Over roughly two hours, the river alternates lively Class II–III rapids, calm scenic floats and accessible swim spots, making for an easygoing, family-friendly outing that still delivers splashy moments and sun-soaked river time.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Manageable, Lively Whitewater
The Blaster delivers a sequence of Class II–III rapids—enough push to feel like real rafting without demanding advanced technical skills—making it suited to paddlers seeking active but approachable whitewater.
Short Scenic Float with Swim Stops
Between rapids the Kern opens into calm stretches and summer-friendly swim spots, offering opportunities to cool off, float, and take in the canyon-to-reservoir transition along the 3.5-mile run.
An Easygoing Trip for First-Timers
Framed as an accessible adventure, this two-hour run is designed to welcome first-timers and families while still providing playful rapids and river time for casual thrill-seekers.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
Expect a compact, energetic outing: launch at the mouth of Kern Canyon, push through a handful of classed rapids that punctuate otherwise relaxed floats, stop for swims in calm eddies, and finish near Lake Ming. The whole flow is designed to be social, approachable and time-efficient—roughly two hours on the water, though flows can change the pace.
THE RAPIDS
Manageable, Lively Whitewater
The Blaster delivers a sequence of Class II–III rapids—enough push to feel like real rafting without demanding advanced technical skills—making it suited to paddlers seeking active but approachable whitewater.
THE RIVER
Short Scenic Float with Swim Stops
Between rapids the Kern opens into calm stretches and summer-friendly swim spots, offering opportunities to cool off, float, and take in the canyon-to-reservoir transition along the 3.5-mile run.
THE ACCESS
An Easygoing Trip for First-Timers
Framed as an accessible adventure, this two-hour run is designed to welcome first-timers and families while still providing playful rapids and river time for casual thrill-seekers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who may want something different.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The run covers about 3.5 miles and is advertised as a two-hour trip; actual time on the water can vary with river flows.
Bring a towel, a dry change of clothes, a plastic bag for wet gear, and a water bottle.
Wear sunscreen, a swimsuit (or shorts/tank/T-shirt), and secure water shoes that won’t fall off; cheap sunglasses and an adventure hat are suggested.
Plan to get wet—pack a dry bag or plastic bag for post-trip clothes and a towel for drying off after the float and swim stops.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is The Blaster trip?
The trip is advertised as roughly two hours on a 3.5-mile stretch, though actual duration can vary with river flows.
What class of whitewater will we encounter?
The Blaster runs Class II–III whitewater—lively but generally approachable rapids suitable for guided, recreational rafting.
Where does the run start and end?
The run starts at the mouth of Kern Canyon and finishes near Lake Ming in Bakersfield along a 3.5-mile corridor.
Is this trip suitable for families or first-time rafters?
Yes. The trip is described as easygoing and specifically suits first-timers, families, and anyone seeking stress-free thrills.
What should I bring and wear?
Bring a towel, a dry change of clothes, a plastic bag for wet clothes and a water bottle. Wear sunscreen, a swimsuit (or shorts and a T), and secure water shoes; cheap shades and an adventure hat are suggested.