The North Fork American River flows through a pristine and very scenic steep walled canyon. The river starts its journey west from the headwaters in the Granite Chief Wilderness between the ski areas of Sugar Bowl and Palisades Tahoe. For most of its length it is protected by federal Wild and Scenic status, as it freely tumbles through steep gorges in the Tahoe National Forest. It enters the Auburn State Recreation Area near Colfax and joins the Middle Fork American near Auburn.
Overseeing the upper 26 miles of this untamed stretch is the Tahoe National Forest, while the lower third is under the stewardship of the Bureau of Land Management.
The North Fork American River California provides a fun yet challenging white water rafting. These trips are available in the spring when the free flowing river is getting ideal flows from the snowpack in the Sierra’s. The rapids are close together, and action packed with big drops and large boulders in the river to avoid. They are not for first time rafters and swimming skills are required.
North Fork white water rafting runs the Chamberlain Falls section where the action starts quickly and continues it’s pace through the entire trip – an experience you will never forget. You’ll raft down continuous pool and drop rapids with unsurpassed backcountry scenery during the North Fork American river rafting trip. Aqua colored water flows over polished granite rocks and hillsides are dotted with spring flowers.
Searching for other American River Rafting trips? Check out our California Rafting page, Rafting near Sacramento page and our South Fork American River rafting pages which all offer more options depending on your location and group. Lower Middle Fork American River rafting trips are also available however this is a very difference experience with Class II rapids geared towards ages 4+ and younger families.
High in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the headwaters of the North Fork American River trace their origin near the backdrops of renowned Sugar Bowl and Palisades Tahoe ski resorts. Spring, from April to June, brings optimal boating conditions as the river flow is intricately linked to the Sierra snowpack. This season also unveils a breathtaking display of wildflowers in full bloom, casting vibrant hues against the turquoise water and gray cliffs, creating a picturesque canyon landscape.
Preserving its pristine beauty, the North Fork American River was granted Wild and Scenic status in 1978. This protective designation shields the nearly untouched canyon from potential threats such as logging, damming, and development. In contrast to the Middle Fork, the North Fork bears fewer visible remnants of the Gold Rush era. Despite a modest population of around 2000 inhabitants at the Green Valley Miner Camp in 1851, the challenging canyon terrain and transportation difficulties led most miners to seek fortune in other rivers, leaving the North Fork relatively untouched by the bustling activity of the 1850s.
As you venture through the canyon, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of flora, with Oaks, Alders, and Pines providing shelter for a diverse array of wildlife. The area is home to various species, including Black Bears at higher elevations, mountain lions, spotted owls, peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and deer. The presence of these inhabitants adds to the enchanting allure of the natural surroundings.
Majestic mule deer graze in tranquil meadows, while the iconic black bear roams through wooded expanses. The elusive mountain lion, a symbol of the wild, further enhances the allure of this rich and varied landscape. In the delicate balance of nature, the upper American River watershed serves as a refuge for endangered species. The American bald eagle soars gracefully through the skies, embodying the spirit of freedom and resilience. The California red-legged frog, with its distinctive markings, finds sanctuary in the waters, contributing to the intricate web of life. The valley elderberry longhorn beetle, an emblem of ecological diversity, adds another layer of uniqueness to this vital ecosystem.
We would like to acknowledge the Southern Maidu people to the North, the Valley and Plains Miwok/ Me-Wuk Peoples to the south of the American River, and the Patwin Wintun Peoples to the west of the Sacramento River.
Acknowledging the Indigenous communities whose lands we visit is a crucial step in understanding our shared history and the ongoing challenges faced by these populations today. For more insight, visit our Territory Acknowledgement page. We encourage you to learn about the people whose land we’re privileged to explore by following the links above. Our Territory Acknowledgement is an evolving project. If you find missing information or acknowledgments, please share it with us. Together, we can ensure accuracy, inclusivity, and respect. Thank you.
We launch trips on many different rivers in California, Oregon and Idaho. For questions give our main office a call – we would love to talk with you about our trips and rivers.
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Our vision is to create a sustainable and equitable reality where our rivers are enjoyed and protected, a place where families and friends can be inspired and challenged.
Tributary Whitewater Tours has been running rivers since we were first founded in 1978. Since we opened 40+ years ago we have expanded to include Adventure Connection, Mariah Wilderness Expeditions, High Desert River Outfitters, Canyon Outfitters and are the parent company of Raft California and Raft Oregon. While some things have changed over the years, Tributary remains a family-run small business with the same passion for the river and the mission of leading others to experience it.
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