Choosing your American River Rafting trip

American River Rafting trips provide a wide range of whitewater rafting with something suitable for all levels of ability and experience. The easiest American River rafting trips are suitable for children from 4 years, seniors and those with special needs, but there is also whitewater rafting for the most adventurous. Be sure to check on our Family Specials where kids raft for 1/2 price on some of our 2 day trips, and also our Hot Deals specials for other discounted trips and dates.

Though some American River Rafting trips are just for a few hours, rafting vacations up to 5 days are also possible. The South Fork American River and Middle Fork American River have the most reliable and longest flows for whitewater rafting in California, and we run trips during the entire rafting season from April into September and October. They are truly an exceptional resource. Even in the height of the summer, you can escape into the wilderness like canyon of the Middle Fork American, and find isolated camping spots and cooling swimming holes. We hope you join us for a memorable American River Rafting trip this year.

Particularly for a first time trip, or if you have a larger group, err on the side of caution to ensure everyone has fun. Always consider the least experienced, most timid or least fit person in your party when making your decision. Please call or email our office if you would like assistance in choosing the most suitable American River rafting trip.

Easiest/Younger Children - Class 1-2:

Suitable for younger (under 8) or more timid children, seniors and special needs. These trips are 2.5 to 5 hrs long so a great introduction for children, and not too much for the less able bodied. Can be made more exciting for a mixed group with the addition of inflatable kayaks or adding a more adventurous section of river.

Lower Middle Fork American River

South Fork American River- Lotus Run

              

                                                                                

Easy/Beginner - Class 2-3:

Suitable for first time rafters, corporate groups, families (kids from 7-8 years), Scout group, church youth groups, bachelor parties or bachelorette parties. OK for non- swimmers. This is an ideal level - fun and exciting, you definitely get wet, but not too intimidating for a beginner. We have 1/2 day express runs for 4 hrs, 1 day trips with a great river side lunch, or 2 days of rafting with camping and all meals.

South Fork American River                

                                                                                                            
Intermediate/Adventurous First-timers - Class 3-4:

Suitable for adventurous first time rafters and groups, those with previous Class 3 experience, adventure Scout groups, adventurous bachelor and bachelorette parties. Good swimming ability required. The Middle Fork is a wonderful wilderness experience that can be experienced on a 1 day trip, or better yet for 2-3 days. It can also be combined with the South Fork American River (see above) as an introduction and trips are available from 2-5 days.

Middle Fork American River

South Fork American/Middle American River Combo

South Fork American/North Fork American River Combo

Intermediate/More Difficult - Class 4+:

This requires previous Class 3 experience with strong swimming ability. Only available while the snow is melting, but an exciting and scenic spring run not to be missed. Availble as a 1/2 day express or 1 day trip. It can also be combined with the South and/or Middle Fork American for a multi-day experience early in the rafting season.

North Fork American River

NOTE: Early in the season (April – Mid-June), water levels may be higher if we have a large snow pack, and therefore we may raise our minimum age level, change our requirements for swimming ability or switch trips to less difficult runs.

Additional Rafting Trips close to the American River:

Truckee River, 1/2 day, Class 2-3+, all summer, near North Lake Tahoe

North Yuba River, 1-3 days, Class 4 and 5, Apr-June, north of Nevada City

For your safety before rafting:  

Nearly everyone can participate at some level, but anyone with any medical condition, very overweight or in poor physical shape should always consult with their physician. Those with a heart condition or back problems should be particularly cautious. Each participant must fit into one of our life jackets with all buckles fastened and our regular life jackets fit a torso circumference of 52 inches maximum. We have a few jackets that will fit up to 56” but they MUST be requested in advance. It is also important for us to know in advance about any conditions that may affect anyone from being fully able to participate to ensure the enjoyment of all our guests.

There are risks involved in any outdoor activity and accidents can happen. All participants will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk or Liability Release form prior to the trip.

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