American River Rafting near Auburn and Placerville make a great whitewater rafting trip of all skill levels and there are many outfitters to help you with your rafting adventure.
Is whitewater rafting the American River fun or scary?
A little bit of both! It’s like the log ride at an amusement park, only crafted by mother nature, and kept safe with professional guides. It’s 90% flow and 10% spicy. The flow through the beautiful canyon will relax you while the spicy rapids will provide memories for years to come!
Where are the guided American River rafting trips on the American River?
Most American River guided trips meet in the Coloma, CA area (on Highway 49), and transport you to different parts of the South Fork of the American River depending on the trip chosen, between Auburn, CA (Highway 80) and Placerville, CA (Highway 50).
What skill level is required for an American River rafting trip?
Guided rafting trips range from beginner to advanced, you just need to choose the correct one for your skill level. You must be able to swim.
When is the best time for an American River rafting trip?
The best time of the year for an American River rafting trip is late spring through the end of summer.
What is the best river guiding company on the American River?
There are many river guiding companies to choose from and we recommend rafting companies that are permitted by California State Parks as they will have professional practices and professional guides to make sure you have a fun and safe trip.
Where to stay near American River rafting?
The closest hotels are in Auburn and Placerville, both about the same distance. However, if you’re looking to save some money and stay in a nicer room with some style, The Foothills Motel is a great option. It’s a stylish newly renovated 50’s motel within walking distance to bowling and dining, so you can unwind after a long day of adventure with some fun activities.
Which Fork of the American River for a Whitewater River Rafting Experience?
The American River in comprised of three main tributaries Flowing from the Sierra Crest before combining in Folsom outside of Sacramento. Each fork has it’s own unique features and attract rafters of every skill level.
North Fork of the American River rafting
The North Fork of the American River is the most rugged of the three and is run by experts in the early and lates seasons when there is enough flow.
Middle Fork of the American River rafting
The Middle Fork of the American River can be quite spicy, but not to the level of the North Fork. This fork is typically run my intermediate rafters.
South Fork of the American River rafting
The Middle Fork of the American River is the most tame of the three, but it has fun rapids that will keep you enthralled! Most of the guided rafting trips use the Middle Fork, and tune trip to the experience level of the rafter.
Current Flow Rate of the South Fork of the American River
Most guided river rafting trips run the South Fork of the American River.
View Current Flow of the South Fork of the American River in a new window
Current Flow Rate of the North Fork of the American River
View Current Flow of the North Fork of the American River in a new window
Current Flow Rate of the Middle Fork of the American River
View Current Flow of the Middle Fork of the American River in a new window
A Place For You to Relax in Comfort
The Foothills Motel is a historic 1959 motel with fully remodeled rooms, upgraded amenities, the most comfortable beds, new bathrooms, the fastest Wi-Fi, and 55-inch LED screens (with HDMI game port!) We have king bedrooms and 2x double beds rooms you can share. Check out the renovated rooms!
We have the best hotel near American River rafting!
Out of the Sun and Into the Fun
For more fun we have award-winning breweries nearby within minutes, wineries, mountain biking and running and hiking trails.
Breweries Near the Foothills Motel
Auburn Alehouse – 6 min.
Crooked Lane Brewing Company – 7 min.
Knee Deep Brewing Company – 8 min.
Moonraker Brewing Co. – 8 min.
Explore 15 Additional Area Breweries
More Fun Things to do in Auburn
Have a fun American River rafting trip with the Foothills Motel!
