One of the top rafting outfitters in California, American Water Expeditions offers the most exciting whitewater rafting adventures on the American River. Experience exhilarating half, one and two-day whitewater rafting trips near Coloma, California on the South Fork of the American River, one of the top whitewater challenges in California, or the Middle and North Forks with Class III - V runs.
Cascading down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Gold Rush Country, the scenic South Fork of the American River near Coloma is a thrilling adventure with over 30 exhilarating rapids. American Whitewater Expeditions features world-class whitewater guides with a passion for rafting and kayaking, exciting whitewater trips and beautiful campgrounds in Coloma.
What class of rapids will I encounter? The South Fork of the American River features exhilarating Class III+ rapids with fast water, waves and beautiful scenery. Raft through Satan’s Cesspool, Bouncing Rock, and Hospital Bar. For more excitement and a true wilderness experience, the Middle Fork flows through the Gold Country with raging Class IV rapids, narrow chutes, big drops and tunnels, including the Tunnel Chute Rapid. The legendary North Fork is a Class IV-V run with technical whitewater rapids, powerful waves for experienced kayakers and rafters, including Chamberlain Falls, Bogus Thunder, and Staircase.
How long does it take to raft the river? American River Expeditions offers half-day, full-day and two day rafting trips on the Upper and Lower South Fork. The 6-mile Chili Bar to Coloma trip is 4 hours. The 15-mile Chili Bar to Salmon Falls trip is an 8-hour day of whitewater fun. The 21-mile Chili Bar to Salmon Falls