Kevsmom California Kayaking

California Whitewater

Rafting the American River

The American River is the most popular rafting river in California and perhaps even the country. It is so popular because it is so close to the large cities of Sacramento and San Francisco. It is also very popular because of the many fun whitewater opportunities on the different tributaries.

The South Fork is the most popular because it is the easiest and the rapids are good clean fun. Many of the Class III rapids on the South Fork are more fun than Class IV and V rapids on other rivers. Because of upstream dam releases, the South Fork can be rafted all summer.

The are two distinct runs on the South Fork of the American: Chili Bar and the Gorge. A fun two day trip involves doing these on consecutive days and camping in the Coloma area in between.

Middle Fork of the American RiverThe Middle Fork is a very different experience than the South Fork. It is usually done as one long day, but is better done as a two day trip so that you can camp in the beautiful and remote canyon away from everything.

The Middle Fork of the American is Class IV river with one portage. You'll start your trip with fun Class III and IV rapids including the famous Tunnel Chute which you will never forget. It is a maelstrom of water funneled through a blasted tunnel and ends in a big drop. There is a nine mile Class II section in the middle of this run that ends with several classic rapids and a portage of Ruck-a-Chucky.

The Middle Fork can be run all summer long because upstream dams release water to raft on. This is a fun summer run, but in the spring there are many better options.

The North Fork is the best run in the drainage for rafting, but is done far less than the South Fork and Middle Fork because there is no upstream dam to guarantee water. It usually only has water from March through June. The level of the river depends on recent storms, the temperature, and the snowpack so you'll have to do some research to predict if you can go. A good outfitter is important on this run because the rapids are very difficult and the water flows can be unpredictable.

It is a Class IV+ run in a beautiful canyon with many challenging rapids. The water is usually crystal clear and cold.