Two Day TripSouth Fork Lower Gorge + North Fork
- Where: Day 1 – Coloma to Salmon Falls on the South Fork. Day 2 – Iowa Hill Bridge to Ponderosa Bridge on the North Fork
- Meeting time: 10:00 AM on Day 1
- Trip length: 24 miles (15 miles on the South Fork and 9 miles on the North Fork)
- Class/Level: III - V
- Departing time: 10:30 AM every day
- Ending time: 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM depending on water level
- Time on water: 6 Hours including lunch on Day 1 and 2 - 4 hours on Day 2
- Lunch: Included both days
- Camping: 2 Nights Camping for Free
- Age restrictions: Minimum Age is 14
Trip Description and Brief Itinerary
This two-day celebration of intense white water river rafting action is our most popular springtime run. On the first day, you will raft the South Fork which is truly spectacular at high water flows. The second day we journey to the Class V North Fork for rapids that are even more challenging. Join us for two fun-filled days of whitewater adventures you’ll long remember.
Arrive the day before your trip at our deluxe river campground, complete with indoor restrooms and free hot showers, swimming pool, volleyball court, and more, situated just above Troublemaker Rapid on the South Fork. Your two-day South Fork and North Fork American River adventure begins with a hearty breakfast and, after an informative safety talk, you’re off to the South Fork American River for a day of fun, laughter, excitement, and lots of exhilarating whitewater.
The first few rapids you’ll encounter on the lower stretch are small but spirited and will allow you to practice your new paddling skills. Then a huge deli-style lunch to match those big, outdoor appetites will be set out for you by the side of the river. After lunch, we’re off to challenge “The Gorge” and experience the excitement of outstanding rapids such as Satan’s Cesspool and Hospital Bar. Just before you hit Folsom Lake our own Honda Jet Ski will meet you for the tow to the take-out at Salmon Falls – this way you avoid a 2-mile paddle out with a headwind.
At the end of the day’s rafting, cold beverages and transportation back to camp await you. At camp, you can enjoy some tasty hors d’oeuvres, a hot shower or free time until we serve a delicious, healthy dinner with dessert that will satisfy the heartiest appetite.
On the second day of your North Fork rafting adventure begins early following a delicious continental breakfast. Heading off to the North Fork for a day of thrills, challenges, and excitement as well as real wilderness experience. The North Fork American features almost continuous technical whitewater rapids. You’ll slalom through Chamberlain Falls, Bogus Thunder, Staircase, and many more. While a hearty deli lunch is served along the river or at takeout depending on water flows, you can enjoy the spring wildflower display, lush foliage, and abundant wildlife. The last few miles of your adventure offer a slower pace allowing you to catch your breath, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon.
Important Trip Details
This North Fork rafting trip is offered on Monday/Tuesday, Tuesday/Wednesday, Wednesday/Thursday, Thursday/Friday, Friday/Saturday, Saturday/Sunday, and Sunday/Monday.
Additional nights of camping and meals are available. Please call us at 1-800-825-3205 or contact us for details.
Get ready for some North Fork and South Fork rafting action! Check out our Equipment List for items you will need for your trip as well as Maps and Directions to our River Camp.