A North Fork of the American River rafting trip is a very special experience. This river only runs for a short period in the spring. It is fed by snowmelt high in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The North Fork of the American River gorge is 2000 ft deep in places and displays polished granite boulders, dramatic drops, and aqua colored water. The rapids range from class V to class II.

The upper section, Giant Gap, is class V and due to the difficulty can only be rafted at specific river levels. The middle section, Chamberlain Falls, is class IV and has a larger window of opportunity for rafting trips. The lower section called Ponderosa Way is much more mellow and is suitable for beginners and families.

For additional details regarding rafting trips on the North Fork of the American River, contact the whitewater rafting outfitters featured on this site.