Whitewater Rafting is a fun summer activty for families. It's pretty easy to learn how to raft and you'll have amazing guides helping you out the whole time. Not to mention there are quite a few whitewater rafting companies in New England. It's always such a fun experience. Not to mention no two rivers are the same, on each rafting trip you go on you will get a totally different experience.
Now let's talk about rapid levels. Rapid levels determine how intense or "dangerous" a certain rapid can be. Class 1 rapids are pretty mellow and they're perfect for beginners. Class 2 rapids require more maneuvering but they're pretty similar to Class 1. Here is where the rapids get more intense. With Class 3 rapids the waves get bigger and it's more dangerous. Then Class 4 rapids get a lot more instense. The passages are more narrow, there's larger waves, and more obsticles to avoid. Now with Class 5 rapids, the highest class, it's a whole new level. It's practically the same as Class 4, but it's more intense. Bigger waves, bigger rocks, and points were your raft can flip over. Always be aware of your comfort level when it comes to rapids.
Another thing to consider is rafting safety. A good thing to know is that your raft guide and staff will teach you all about safety. But being prepared isn't always a bad thing. Some of the things you need are lifejackets, helemets, swimsuit, and watershoes are a good idea. Now know that in some places helmets aren't required but in most they are. Another good idea for when it's colder are wetsuits. At most places they lend you wetsuits but it's optional for the most part. Make sure to pay close attention when being taught how to use a paddle. It's very important because your raft team depends on you.
Last and definitely not least, wipeouts. Wipeouts are a given, they are bound to happen. Wipeouts can be getting hit in the face with a wave, falling out of the raft, or the raft flipping, stuff like that. A lot of the time the photographer gets shots of the wipeouts. They are hilarious to look back at with the rest of the rafters. All around whitewater rafting is a great experience and if you ever get the chance you should definitely try it out.