About This Route
The Alpenrhein's 18km from Ilanz to Urmein in Graubünden canton delivers Class II-III rapids through Rhine Gorge, Switzerland's 'Grand Canyon' with 300m basalt walls. Trips via Rhine Rafting Domat feature 'Punt Muragl' drops; 3-hour floats suit mixed groups. Summer volumes (15-30 cumecs) ensure forgiving runs; UNESCO-protected area demands eco-compliance.
Safety Considerations
High volume risks foot entrapments in wave holes; swim parallel to current. Wood debris from tributaries clogs bends; recon eddies. Hypothermia looms in 14°C meltwater; layer neoprene. Thunderstorms rare but potent; MeteoSwiss vetoes launches. Federal high-risk laws require bilingual briefings, guide WWIII certs. Avoid solo; currents sweep to Lake Constance weirs. Scout 'Rhine Falls' upstream variants.
Essential Gear
Grab Osprey drypacks; add NRS rescue stirrups. Helmets: IR headsets for comms.
Preparation Tips
Study Rhine gauge at Reichenau; over 40 cumecs, postpone. Practice T-rescues. Post-run, check for giardia from swallows.