Whitewater rafting trips on The American River

California’s most popular river for whitewater rafting.

With all the wildflowers, trees, wildlife, and sunshine keeping your senses occupied, it’s easy to forget that you are getting ready to paddle into some of the best whitewater rafting in North America. The American River offers attendees so much, it might as well have been designed in a Hollywood studio.

From family kid friendly floats to whitewater rapids that literally send you though a tunnel in the side of the mountain, the American River has it all.

For the families, groups, and thrill seekers, we have the ideal rafting experience for all. Which one will you choose?

South Fork of the American River (Beginner/Intermediate)

Class 2-3

The South Fork is literally a river for everyone, great for first timers and river lovers alike. The South Fork of the American is the most popular option for California river rafters. Ages 6 to 96 are welcome for this classic trip down the river. 1/2 day, full day and overnight trips available on the South Fork of the American River.

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Middle Fork of the American River (Intermediate/Adventurous First Timers)

Class 3-4

An increase of difficulty from the South Fork of the American. This 17 mile stretch of river of meanders though the California foothills with exciting rapids, including the world famous Tunnel Chute. It’s no wonder why this stretch of river is considered one of the best in the west. 1-Day and overnight trips available on the Middle Fork of the American River.

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North Fork of the American River (Intermediate)

Class 4-4+

The most challenging fork of the American River and hardest to catch due to the natural flow (i.e. not a dam controlled river).  The North Fork of the American is a classic spring time adventure to challenge those looking for something a little more.  Aqua clear water and polished granite rocks make for a truly magical rafting trip in the heart of the sierra foothills.

This River is Snow Melt only, and typically has a short season from April-May

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Whitewater Rafting Trips For Young Kids (Ages 4-12)

These family friendly float style river trip are the perfect introduction to a whitewater rafting trip. Great for families with kids ages 4 and above looking for a mellow afternoon half day trip floating through some of California’s historic gold country.

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* River trip choices and availability subject to river flows and release schedules.

What is American River Rafting 

There are many stories that have been shared about American River white water rafting trips, and if you are a resident of the Golden State, it is likely you have heard one a time or two, or you have your own tales to share. In the case you are not familiar with the American River in California or rafting trips on the American River, we will tell you a little bit while saving what we can for you to experience first-hand.

The American River runs from the crest of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, located between the Central Valley of California and the Great Basin, to where it meets the Sacramento River in Sacramento Valley. It is made up of three forks: North Fork, Middle Fork and South Fork. All of which offer their own unique American River rafting trip experience, and not just in the stories each fork of the river tell, but also in how they share it. The North Fork is more adventurous, for example, the South Fork is more easygoing, while the Middle Fork.. well somewhere in the middle.

Rafting trips on the American River are a great experience with nature but also offer an opportunity to reflect on American history with its role in the California Gold Rush, specifically the South Fork. For many families, there is no better way to spend a family vacation than on the American River floating. There is no better time than now to start crafting your river rafting story. Book a rafting trip on the American River now and continue to relive your experience for years to come.