Rafting and whitewater rafting are pleasant outdoor activities that include navigating a river or other body of water on an inflatable raft. This is frequently done on whitewater or in varying degrees of roughness. Since the 1950s, this activity has grown in popularity as an adventure sport, developing from single-person rafts propelled by double-bladed paddles or oars to multi-person rafts propelled by single-bladed paddles. Paddles and oars are the most common means of raft movement, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different river conditions.
Rafting is considered an extreme sport that can be deadly, while other sections are not as tough or extreme. When sufficient precautions are taken, the overall risk level on a rafting trip is modest, and thousands of people enjoy rafting adventures safely every year.