Rafting is
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The river is the perfect place to reconnect with nature—and yourself
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Our Middle Fork trip was incredible, the breathtaking views, full moon in the canyon, and thrilling, fun rapids... I came home transformed.
Mort Tweedy
Sacramento
North Fork American

North Fork of the American River:
Premium Class IV+ Whitewater Rafting

Difficulty: Class IV+
Season: April through mid-June
Minimum Age: 14 years old

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Free flowing and fed only by spring snow melt, the crystal clear whitewater of the North Fork zigzags down a narrow sluice box of a canyon through spectacular alpine scenery. The intense rafting action begins as house-sized boulders squeeze the river to a mere twenty feet to form Class IV+ "Chamberlain Falls" then the river accelerates into nearly continuous pool and drop Class IV rapids.

The excitement of whitewater rafting on the North Fork is surpassed only by its beauty. With no dams upstream, it is truly a wild river. Watch the rocks glistening below you in the crystal clear water. Between rapids let your eyes wander to the steep canyon walls formed millions of years ago by rushing rivers. Notice the streams rolling out of small side canyons, become one with the North Fork.

"Thank you for ensuring that we had a wonderful trip down the American and a fabulous weekend! It has created a lasting memory, we feel 'alive' again and in accord with nature."

--- Cindy

With the completion of the Class IV rapids, we stop for lunch. While your guides prepare the food, you have a chance to explore Shirttail or Indian Creeks, just two of the many wonders of the North Fork Canyon. After lunch, continue for more three miles of Class II and III rapids.

The North Fork is the most difficult of the three forks of the American. Due to the intensity of the river coupled with the cold springtime water we recommend this trip to experienced paddlers.

North Fork Trip Options

The Chamberlain Falls Class IV+ whitewater rafting run on the North Fork American River is a one-day trip. We offer several options to help you create a full weekend adventure:

  • One-day trips
  • Two-day trips (run the same exciting stretch two days in a row!)
  • Combo trips Add a South Fork or Middle Fork trip to your multi-day stay at Mother Lode River Center.
  • River & ropes Challenge your group with a one-day program on the certified Ropes Course at Mother Lode River Center.

South Fork American    Middle Fork American    Family Floats

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