North Fork American River California Whitewater Rafting

Rafting on the North Fork American River. A California river rafting trip, a class IV+ springtime whitewater classic! We hope this will be a useful whitewater resource for all boaters, outdoor and rafting lovers, and armchair adventurers alike. This site provides rafting and kayaking information, maps, and pictures of the river, information on places to camp and local businesses in California and on the net, directions to the river, as well as a link for those who would like to utilize the services of a professional outfitter like Adventure Connection whitewater rafting.

Just downstream from the put-in the North Fork American River plunges into a narrow gorge. Big rapids follow in quick succession for most of the next five miles. At moderate and high flows eddies become scarce and hard to catch, and rafters must negotiate some big holes (reversals), especially Chamberlain Falls and Staircase.

Above 2000 cfs (a quantitative measurement gauging one cubic foot of water passing an imaginary stationary mark on the river each second) this river deserves special respect by all boaters, this run is tough enough even at low and moderate levels to warrant experienced rafters to consider the services of a professional outfitter. Generally, such rafting outfitters provide all food, gear and shuttles as part of their services.

Feel free to browse our free site to learn more about this beautiful resource. The following pages will give you access to a detailed river map, river flow information, photos, useful links and even the current and predicted weather for the area. Enjoy and see you on the river!