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Lower South Fork American River Rafting: The Gorge

  • Intermediate Level
  • 13 Miles of Fun!
  • Half Day Experience
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This popular trip starts with a relaxed pace for the first 4 miles with some rocks to jump off and rapids to swim in. Then we raft down the South Fork Gorge through really fun Class III and III+ rapids like Fowler’s Rock, Satan’s Cesspool and Hospital Bar!

  • Snacks + Drinks Included
  • Professional Photos Available
  • Great for All Experience Levels
  • Reliable Daily Dam Releases

Trip Details

  • Price: Weekday: Adult - $129 | Under 18 - $109
    Weekend: Adult - $139 | Under 18 - $118

    Ask about special group discounts for six or more.

    All rates are subject to county, state, federal river access fees of $9 per person, which will be added to invoice.
  • Availability: 7 Days • Spring, Summer & Fall
  • Meeting: 12:30pm Sharp at River's Bend Resort, 6400 CA-49, Lotus, CA 95651
  • Trip Specs: 4 Hours / 13 Miles on Class III and III+Rapids

  • Included: Return-to-Start Shuttle • Raft • Paddle • Personal Flotation Device • Drinks
  • Not Included: Taxes • Gratuities
  • Participation Requirements: Minimum 8 Years Old & 60 lbs
  • What to wear: Bathing Suit/Shorts • T-shirt • Old Tennis Shoes (no flip flops) - see FAQ for more info
  • What to Bring: Sun Protection • Dry Clothes & Shoes • Towel • Plastic Bag • Water - see FAQ for more info

What to Expect on Your Gorge Rafting Adventure

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We’ll meet up at River’s Bend at 12pm sharp and start by getting all the waivers signed. Then we’ll set you up with your helmet, paddle and personal flotation device. The head guide will deliver a short safety briefing to the whole group before we assign a guide for each raft.

Next, your group will carry the raft down to the water. Once on board your guide will conduct a quick in-water orientation and give some tips on paddling technique and rafting team work. Then we’ll be ready to hit the rapids!

A Gentle Introduction... Before Fowler's Rock!

Once we set off all boats will stay together as we head down river starting with a fairly relaxed pace. The first four miles we’ll cruise through some smaller rapids, get the opportunity to swim in the rapids and jump off some rocks.

You’ll have some time to get ready for Fowler’s Rock which is your first challenge. Don’t worry, your guide will prepare you before every rapid.

Get Ready for a Surprise!

We’ll keep heading down river and hitting a lots of fun rapids along the way in preparation for the Hospital Bar. Our last big rapid is the super-fun Surprise Rapid! Once you’ve conquered this then it’ll be smooth sailing into Lake Folsom, arriving around 4.30pm.

Then we’ll bus you back to River’s Bend where we’ll enjoy some chips, salsa and ice cold drinks. We hope you enjoyed your American River rafting experience with Sierra Whitewater!

Good to Know

  • Start times are based on dam releases that provide sufficient water for rafting so don’t be late! Let us know ASAP if you’re at ANY risk of being late!
  • Overnight camping is available at River’s Bend with hot showers and flush toilets. Self camping is $15 per person, per night. We do offer camping rentals as well, inquire for a detailed rental list. Deposit is required to rent equipment. Contact us for more information.
  • Let us know well in advance if you’ve booked separately from your friends but want to be together.
  • We recommend bringing additional cool weather clothing in April, May, September & October.
  • Photographers are a separate entity and cannot be guaranteed.
  • If you have a request for a specific guide, let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to organize it.
  • Youths and people under 90lbs require a different life jacket. Please let us know in advance.