South Fork American River Whitewater Rafting

Price from

$102.00/person

5.0(324 reviews)

Most Popular
  • Class II-III rapids with certified river guides
  • All safety gear provided
  • Historic Gold Discovery country scenery
  • Great first whitewater experience
Mobile Ticket Instant Confirm 3.5 hours Coloma, near Sacramento

Cancellation Policy

With Ticket Assurance, cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour. Otherwise rescheduling up to 72 hours in advance.

Overview

The South Fork of the American River is the most popular whitewater run in the western United States, and it starts where gold was first discovered in California. This 3.5-hour guided trip runs the Chili Bar or Gorge sections with Class II-III rapids — big enough to thrill first-timers, friendly enough for families with older kids.

Tour highlights

  • Class II-III rapids with certified river guides
  • All safety gear provided
  • Historic Gold Discovery country scenery
  • Great first whitewater experience

What's included

  • Professional river guide
  • Raft, paddle, helmet and PFD
  • Wetsuit in cool months
  • Riverside snack

Not included

  • Transport from Sacramento
  • Towel and change of clothes
  • Photos
  • Gratuities

Itinerary

  1. 0:00

    Check-in and gear up

    Meet your guide at the river base and fit your safety gear.

  2. 0:30

    Safety briefing

    Paddle commands and river safety practice on shore.

  3. 1:00

    On the water

    Run the rapids with swim stops in calm pools.

  4. 3:00

    Take-out

    Shuttle back to base and change.

Meeting point

Coloma River Base

7238 CA-49, Lotus, CA 95651

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Important information

  • Minimum age 7; minimum weight 50 lbs
  • Must be able to swim
  • Arrive 30 minutes before departure

Traveler reviews

Verified
The Midtown arts and food tour was the highlight of our weekend. Our guide knew every mural, every chef and every back-alley shortcut.
Marissa T. · Portland, OR
Verified
Rafting the South Fork with a nervous 12-year-old and it could not have gone better. Guides were calm, funny and completely in control.
Devin R. · San Diego, CA
Verified
Great value ghost tour — an hour of genuinely creepy history right after dinner on the waterfront. Book the late slot.
Priya S. · London, UK

Frequently asked questions

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$102.00