2026 Kern River Rafting Preview

State of the Snowpack – 24% of April 1st

The 2025–2026 winter season can best be described as “bizarre.” Early-season storms brought the Kern River Basin close to normal by January, and a powerful, cold atmospheric river in February pushed snowpack to near or even above average. For much of the winter, the Kern River Basin actually held the strongest snowpack in the entire West.

However, a record-breaking March heatwave rapidly melted a significant portion of that snow, triggering an unusually early runoff on the Upper Kern. Since March 1st, nearly 70% of the season’s snowpack has already melted, leaving us at just 24% of normal as of April 1st.

So what does this mean for Kern River rafting? While the Upper Kern will likely see a shorter, earlier season—with good runnable flows expected through May—the outlook remains strong overall. Much of the early snowmelt has been captured in Lake Isabella, which will help support consistent releases and create a fantastic rafting season on the Lower Kern. We expect the Lower Kern to offer enjoyable conditions through at least Labor Day weekend.

Kern River Flow Outlook

River flows on the Kern in 2026 are being shaped by an early and accelerated snowmelt season. On the Upper Kern, flows peaked earlier than usual—likely in March—bringing strong, exciting whitewater in early spring before gradually tapering off by late May. On the Lower Kern, flows will remain more consistent due to releases from Lake Isabella, providing reliable and enjoyable rafting conditions well into the summer. Overall, this season will start early, deliver great spring action, and maintain steady Lower Kern flows through the warmer months. With the current projections on flows, High Water Protocol will not be in place for the 2026 season.

Upper Kern River

Lower Kern River

Book In Advance

With the 2026 season off to an early and exciting start, we’re already running trips and seeing strong demand on the river. With this year’s early snowmelt and solid spring flows, rafting conditions have arrived sooner than usual—and bookings are filling up quickly. We highly recommend reserving your trip in advance to guarantee your spot. While limited walk-in reservations may be available, they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Most trips are capped at 30–35 rafters, so booking early is the best way to secure your place for what’s shaping up to be a fantastic season on the Kern.