Half Day Whitewater Rafting Trips

South Fork of the American River

($67-$102 per-person)

Half Day “Upper” Chili Bar Run (10 Miles) - 9:00 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 typically has you back to your car around 12:15, and is a great and exciting way to spend the morning.

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 PM or 1:00 PM

One of our most popular trips, the Lower South Fork of the American River 1/2-day begins on a relaxing stretch of Class II white water rapids right at our base camp in Rivers Bend Resort. Once in the boat with your guide, the beautiful scenery allows for 4 miles of calm rapids that allows for swimming and jumping off rocks before the legendary stretch of white water known as "the Gorge” begins.

You will navigate through the American River canyon as the Sierra foothills narrows and leads into a stretch of class III white water rapids, including Bouncing Rock, Hospital Bar, and the legendary Satan's Cesspool. Typically this trip last about 3.5 hours from your meeting time, when at the end of the trip our drivers will bring you back to your car via a bus or van.

Afternoon half day trips before May 26 and after September 4th are only offered at 12:00pm. Both time slots are available from May 28-Sep 3rd, 2024.

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!