The South Fork of the American River is a great introduction to the sport of whitewater rafting. This river is ideal for first-timers and families.

The Upper Chili Bar section is a good solid Class 3 run with over 10 major rapids. Its course will take you through the small mining town of Coloma, where James Marshall first discovered gold at Sutters Mill and changed the course of California history. Calm sections are interspersed with wonderfully fun rapids and the excitement comes to a head towards the end of this 8 mile run with a major rapid known as "Troublemaker".

At the end of the trip we'll arrive at River Park resort where a barbecue lunch will be served with ample amounts of food. You may also purchase a beverage from our river store. We have ice cold Sierra Nevada ale on tap!

This river is excellent for either the veteran or novice. The flows on the South Fork American River are the most dependable in the state, with guaranteed recreational releases for the next 50 years.

If you are looking to try your first rafting trip, or if you are a rafting pro, you can't go wrong with the Upper "Chili Bar" section of the South Fork American.

Trip meets at 9:00AM at River Park Resort in Lotus, CA. Trip duration is 4 hours.