Half Day Whitewater Rafting Trips

South Fork of the American River

($67-$102 per-person)

Half Day “Upper” Chili Bar Run (10 Miles) - 8:30 AM

This upper stretch of the South Fork provides an action packed 10 miles of class 2/3 rapids. After meeting at our campground, a short 20 min bus rides brings you to “The Nugget.” Here you will get geared up and listen to a safety talk to get you ready to paddle through rapids like Meat Grinder, Triple Threat, and Troublemaker Rapid (the largest class 3 rapid on the South Fork of the American River.) This trip is a great and exciting way to spend the morning.

Typically you are back to the original meeting location around 4 hours after your check-in time

Once booking is completed online, you will receive a confirmation email with everything else you need to know about your upcoming trip. Such as e-waivers, what to bring, and what to expect.

Looking for more then just a half day… Check out the full day trip here

1/2 Day “Lower” Gorge Run (11 Miles) - 12:00, 12:15, or 1:00 PM

One of our most popular trips, the lower "Gorge Run" on the South Fork of the American River can be experienced as a 1/2 day trip.

For the first 3 miles this trip begins on a relaxing and introductory stretch of Class II white water rapids leaving from our campground in Lotus, CA. Once in the boat with your professionally trained guide, the beautiful scenery and start of the trip allows for swimming and jumping off rocks before the legendary stretch of whitewater known as "the Gorge” begins.

Once in "the Gorge," you will navigate through the South Fork American River canyon as the Sierra foothills narrow, leading into a stretch of class III whitewater rapids with names such as Bouncing Rock, Hospital Bar, and the legendary Satan's Cesspool, and yes they take your photo there ;)

Typically this trip lasts about 4 hours from your check-in time. At the end of the trip our drivers will shuttle you back to your car via a bus or van.

The age limit for this trip is 6 years old, and non-swimmers participate on this stretch of river almost every day.

Once booking is completed online, you will receive a confirmation email with everything to know about your upcoming trip.

Looking for more then just a half day… Check out the full day trip here

If you're looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience in California, then a half-day whitewater rafting trip is the perfect activity for you. With its beautiful gold country scenery, ample amount of whitewater raids and wildlife and wildflowers, rafting down the South Fork of the American River will give you the exactly what you are searching for.

Half-day trips are a great option for those wanting to trying rating for their first time and not commit to a full day, while also providing a great half-day experience for those traveling through the area or from a longer distance to avoid waking up at 4:00 AM to make your trips meet time.

The South Fork of the American river provides a fabulous long season with trips available from March-November. Before you hit the water, your guide will provide you with a safety briefing and explain the different rapids you'll encounter on your trip. You'll also be given all the necessary gear, including a life jacket, helmet, and paddle. Once you're on the river, you'll be amazed by the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the excitement of the rapids.

Whether you're an experienced rafter or a first-timer, you'll have a blast and make memories that will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Book your rafting trip today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!