In 1848, James Marshall discovered gold on the South Fork American River, making this river famous and perfect for American River rafting. Today, South Fork American River white water rafting is not only the most popular American River rafting run, but is also the most popular whitewater run in all of California. A wonderful introduction toAmerican River white water rafting, this river is ideal for the first-timer as well as the seasoned American River rafting veteran.
From Chili Bar Reservoir to Folsom Lake, the South Fork American River flows 21 beautifully unbridled miles of exciting American River rafting. Over 25 major California river rafting rapids cut through some of the most varied geology in the Sierra. Along with the natural and human history, you'll thrill to the challenge of such ominous sounding California river rafting rapids as Meatgrinder, Troublemaker, Satan's Cesspool, and Hospital Bar!
Two-Day South Fork American River White Water Rafting Trips: Chili Bar to Folsom Lake, Class III, 21 Miles
Your 2-day American River white water river rafting adventure starts in Coloma. On day one, we raft the infamous Gorge section. Half-way down, we stop at our camp for a delicious deli-style lunch, then raft on to Folsom Lake. After refreshments, we will board the bus for a short, scenic ride back to our private American River front camp. As the guides start cooking our big, country-style BBQ dinner, you will have time to fish, play volleyball, toss horse shoes, take a hot shower, or just relax and enjoy a cold beverage along with scrumptious appetizers. After a tasty dessert, an entertaining slide show in our camp will feature you running the biggest rapids of the day. Enjoy the rest of your evening swapping stories around a glowing campfire. The following morning, after a hearty breakfast, we will board the bus and head up top to Chili Bar. You will raft the mighty Chili Bar section down to the historic Marshall gold discovery site at Sutter's Mill, where lunch will be served. After lunch, we will continue down the river to the starting point, where your adventure began the day before. The trip ends back at camp around 3:00 p.m.
One-Day Chili Bar Express: Chili Bar to Coloma, Class III
This 7.5 mile American River white water rafting voyage will have you enjoying the outdoors amongst the beauty and history of the gold country. The first 5 miles of California river rafting offer continuous excitement; the last few give you a chance to relax and enjoy the American River rafting scenery.
One-Day Gorge: Coloma to Folsom Lake, Class III
This California river rafting trip takes you through 14 miles of scenic countryside. Starting gently and building to almost non-stop California river rafting excitement, you will travel through a spectacular canyon of rock cliffs and thundering California river rafting waters.
One-Day Full California River Rafting Trip: Chili Bar to Folsom Lake, Class III
Raft the entire 21 miles of the river for an unforgettable American River rafting experience. This trip starts early and is recommended for those who want the maximum amount of American River rafting pleasure in a one day trip.
Half-Day California River Rafting Special: Class III
We offer two different half-day California river rafting trips: one in the morning down the Chili Bar section, and one in the afternoon through the Gorge. Both these trips offer a great introduction to California river rafting and perfect for those desiring a shorter day without meals.
Quarter-Day Family Float Trip Special: Class II
This easy, four mile, class II trip is great for families wanting to bring
along the little ones. Children as young as four years old are welcome on
this American River white water rafting adventure. As an option, the little ones can end their trip at camp
with one parent while the others continue down the Class III 1-day Gorge
Run. (1/4 day floaters can be added to our picnic lunch with our 1-day guests.)
"I wanted to drop you a line to let you know how much we all enjoyed our weekend with American River Recreation. Everyone has been calling to thank me, yet your staff deserves all the praise. From the first time I called American River Recreation, your staff made it easy for me to organize a trip for 13 people." - Eric K.
