No Dams Upstream – A Truly Wild River

No rest for the weary when you’re whitewater rafting on the North Fork of the American River. From the get-go you’ll be challenged by the North Fork’s whitewater rapids then rewarded with the beautiful, majestic wilderness. Between rapids you’ll get a few moments to observe steep canyon walls formed millions of years ago by rushing rivers. Beautiful streams rolling out of small side canyons become one with the North Fork.

Free flowing and fed only by early spring snow melt, the clear whitewater of the North Fork American River zigzags down a narrow sluice box of a canyon through spectacular alpine scenery.

One Day North Fork Trip

Meet time: 7:00 AM
Duration: 9.5 miles
Starting from: $144

Your exciting and adrenaline pumping 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 relentless and continuous Class IV rapids. Upon completion of that section, you get to stop for lunch. While your guides prepare your food, explore Shirttail or Indian Creeks, two of the many wonders of the North Fork American River Canyon. After lunch, continue for three more miles of milder yet still exhilarating Class II and III rapids. The North Fork American River is the most challenging of the three forks of the American. Due to the intensity of the river coupled with the cold springtime water, we recommend this trip for experienced rafters only.

Minimum age subject to change. All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability to swim.

Available Dates vary based on weather and snowmelt. Please call (530) 626-4187 to book a trip on the North Fork.

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Too late in the season for the North Fork American River?

You’re in luck! The Class IV Middle Fork American River runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. » Check out Middle Fork trips