We rate the California’s South Fork of the American River as the best river in California for both first-time and more experienced rafters. As the most popular river in California, California’s South Fork of the American River is a consistent Class II-III+, beginning-level whitewater river.
California’s South Fork of the American River has become the most popular river in California for individuals, families, groups of friends and company recreation trips, available daily from April through September. The river offers a wide range of adventures, with over 50 exciting rapids interspersed with calm, slower stretches where we can enjoy the beauty of the river canyon.
- The 1-Day Chili Bar trip offers 3-4 hours of rafting the 10.5 miles of the upper stretch of the South Fork American River, with a delicious barbeque lunch included back at the Mariah Campground.
- Our luxury riverside campground is private (no other rafting companies share it), has a well-equipment camp store which provides last-minute items you may have forgotten, flush toilets, and hot-water showers.
- Since our campground is located halfway down the river, at Mile 10.5, we are able to paddle from Chili Bar Put-In, all the way down to our campground where we take our boats out of the river.
By 8:30 A.M., we will meet you at our campground on the South Fork of the American River. Just park your car; follow the main path into the kitchen area, and you will be greeted by your Head Guide.
You will then board the Mariah river-shuttle vehicles for the 30-minute drive to Chili Bar Put-In, a large beach area located just below the Chili Bar Dam, at the top of the river. During the bus ride, the Head Guide will give you the Trip Orientation, a thorough, 30-minute presentation. He/she will go over the safety features of the trip, and demonstrate paddle techniques.
At the Put-In, you will be introduced to your guides, launch your boats, and begin rafting a fun half-mile section of the river, with time to warm up and practice your paddling techniques.
Within 15-20 minutes you enter Meatgrinder Rapid, a fun Class III rapid. Following Meatgrinder are some exciting Class III rapids, such as Race Horse Bend, Maya Hole, and Triple Threats. There are several Class II rapids to enjoy, also. You will even have a chance to swim one of the easier rapids. Then, at Mile 5.5, you approach Troublemaker Rapid, Class III+ - IV-, the biggest rapid on the river.
The run through this rapid is exhilarating! Keep a smile on your face and your paddle in the water, because our kayaking-photographer will be looking for the best shots to take, for viewing back at camp. The next 5 miles are calmer, with many Class I and Class II rapids. You will be able to enjoy the scenery, and do some birding before arriving at the Mariah Campground about 1-1:30 P.M. We will take the boats out of the water, and return our life jackets.
Back at camp, the guides will prepare a hearty BBQ lunch; our photographer will present the slide show of the day’s rafting. You may take a shower, buy a souvenir t-shirt, and say farewell to the new friends you've made on California’s South Fork of the American River rafting trip. You should be ready to depart for your next destination by 3 P.M.
Camping the night prior to your trip: You may camp with us the night prior to your trip and join us for breakfast for an additional charge. Many of our guests who have time for just one day of rafting, take advantage of this opportunity to camp in order to experience the thrill of sleeping out-of-doors.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
- Minimum deposit: $50.00
- Minimum age: 7
Price Includes:
- 1 day of rafting
- 1 meal (BBQ lunch)
Also see tour packages in:
USA
California
Canoeing/Kayaking/Rafting
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