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How long does it take to raft the South Fork American River?

CALL TO BOOK | 530.626.7385

  Rafting on the South Fork American River

The South Fork of the American River is one of the most popular whitewater rafting runs in the United States. The 21 miles between Chili Bar Dam and Folsom Lake offers some of the best beginner to intermediate whitewater in California as well as world class scenery and easy access. Rafting the South Fork with a professional rafting outfitter such as Raft California is the perfect way to experience both the thrill of the rapids and serenity of the natural world within the river canyon. There are several sections for rafting, kayaking, SUP boarding, tubing and fishing. 

For on river fun, there are 3 different sections to enjoy:

Chili Bar Section

The upper most Chili Bar run begins about 1/4 mile below Chili Bar Dam and continues 6 miles downstream to Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. This section of river contains many great Class II and III rapids including Meatgrinder and Troublemaker.  There is also spectacular scenery, especially in the early spring when wildflowers cover the hillsides. It typically takes 1.5 hours to raft this section of the river. 

The Lotus Run Section

Continuing downstream from Marshall Gold Discovery State Park is 6 miles of river that flows through the towns of Coloma and Lotus. This section is very popular among beginner boaters and kids, offering many Class I-II rapids. The take-out for this section is Greenwood Creek River Access. A typical float on this section of river takes about 2 hours. 

Commercial outfitters usually take out at their own private camps, we offer a Class 2 kid friendly Lotus Run trip that is 4 miles starting at the Marshall Gold Park and ending at our camp. 

This section is also known as the Coloma to Greenwood run (C to G), or the Tom Sawyer Float.

The Lower Gorge 

From Greenwood River Access to the upper end of Folsom Lake at Salmon Falls the river tumbles through a beautiful bedrock canyon known as “The Gorge”. This 9 mile section of river has numerous Class II-III rapids including Satan’s Cesspool and Hospital Bar. This is the most popular section of river for beginner and intermediate whitewater rafters and kayakers. A trip through “The Gorge” usually lasts about 2.5 hours.

Combining all 3 of these sections is known as our Full River Rafting Trip and is a great day of outdoor adventure for intermediate or advanced whitewater enthusiasts. Rafting all 21 miles of the South Fork American River as it drops 490’ in elevation is a full day adventure full of exciting rapids and wonderful scenery. The trip between Chili Bar Dam and Folsom Lake takes about 6 hours. 

The river can also be broken up into rafting for 2 days. One option includes camping at our established campground and rafting the lower Gorge on day 1, and the upper Chili Bar on day 2. Another option is to run the river top to bottom with more wilderness style camping along the river. 

Whichever section of the South Fork you choose to explore, remember life jackets are required. Professional outfitters such as Raft California provide state of the art gear, professional guides, and transportation for a safe and enjoyable day on the South Fork.

Rafting Trips on the South Fork American River
All American River Rafting Trip Options
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About Tributary Whitewater

Tributary Whitewater Tours has been running white water rafting trips in Northern California & beyond since 1978. The company was originally founded by Dan Buckley, an integral player in the development of white water rafting in California. Dan Buckley’s love to share the excitement, wonder, and natural beauty that rivers have to offer with others lives on with the current owner, Jeremiah Copper.

Tributary continues to be an industry leader in the west coast rafting industry. We offer more rivers than any other outfitter, giving us the ability to accommodate younger kids down to ages 4 (thru our own experience as parents). Our team is one a kind, and everyone in our staff, from guides, to drivers, to the folks answering the phones – we all have a passion for what we do.

The rivers call to us for different reasons, be that extreme white water, fishing, enjoying nature or just experiencing new things & places. There is magic in every river trip. For some, you may first see a bald eagle in flight for the first time, or maybe conquer your first Class 5 rapid. We are here to help you choose your perfect adventure, for any excitement level.

Get In Touch
Tributary Whitewater Tours
6500 CA-49 Lotus, CA 95651
800-672-3846
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RAFTING NEWS

How long does it take to raft the South Fork American River?

April 3, 2022

Middle Fork American River Rafting Trips – Summer 2022 Update

March 17, 2022

How to Become a River Guide

January 14, 2022

We’re Hiring – Join the Tributary Team in 2022

January 7, 2022

keep calm and paddle on