American River Rafting

Choosing your American River rafting adventure is all about matching the thrill to your crew and the season!

For families, beginners, and mixed groups, the South Fork is the perfect playground with its mix of fun rapids and mellow stretches. It’s also the most reliable, running all summer long and into fall.

Looking for more action? The Middle Fork, best tackled from late spring through early fall, offers iconic rapids like “Tunnel Chute” and exciting Class III-IV runs for intermediate and advanced adventurers.

For true adrenaline junkies, the North Fork is unbeatable—but only in the spring when snowmelt swells its Class IV-IV+ rapids. With steep drops and technical challenges, it’s the ultimate test for experienced paddlers.

The South Fork is the most popular choice, especially for families and beginners. With Class II-III rapids, it offers an accessible yet exciting introduction to whitewater rafting. This section of the river balances fun rapids like “Troublemaker” and “Satan’s Cesspool” with calmer stretches, making it perfect for paddlers of all abilities.

The scenery here is a highlight, as the river winds through California’s historic Gold Country. Oak-studded hills and rugged canyon walls provide the backdrop to a day filled with adventure. It’s an especially great option for families, as children as young as 7 years old can participate, making it a fun and safe outing for all ages.

For those seeking a more intense experience, the Middle Fork offers Class III-IV rapids that are sure to thrill. This section is best known for the “Tunnel Chute,” a challenging rapid that concludes with a man-made tunnel. It’s a must-do for adrenaline enthusiasts and one of the most unique rapids in the region.

The Middle Fork’s scenery is equally dramatic, with its remote canyon setting showcasing a pristine wilderness. A trip on this fork covers up to 18 miles of river, making it a fantastic choice for a full-day or overnight rafting experience.

The North Fork is the most challenging of the three, featuring Class IV-IV+ rapids that demand skill and experience. This is the ultimate adventure for advanced rafters who thrive on technical challenges. Rapids such as “Chamberlain Falls” require precision and quick thinking, providing an adrenaline rush like no other.

The scenery along the North Fork is breathtaking, with steep granite walls and lush greenery surrounding the river. This fork is best enjoyed in the spring when snowmelt creates fast and powerful flows, offering the perfect conditions for expert paddlers.