Enjoy a thrilling whitewater rafting tour through the heart of the California Gold Country

Whitewater raft the South Fork of the American River in the heart of the California Gold Country and try some local California wine. Our American River Whitewater Rafting and Wine Day Tour takes you into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Descend 8 miles of the American River down Class III rapids such as Meat Grinder, Triple Threat and Troublemaker. During the trip you will float past the historic gold discovery site of Sutter's Mill. After an exciting day of whitewater rafting, taste some local wine before heading back to the city by the bay.

Great Central Valley

Sierra Nevada Foothills

California Gold Country

American River

Class III Whitewater

Hotel Pick-Up & Drop Off

All Safety Equipment and Gear

Riverside BBQ Lunch

Stop at a Local Winery*

Transport in Biodiesel Van

The day begins with a pick-up from your lodging between 6 and 7 am. We head east across the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, which offers great views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and the East Bay.

We stop for a quick breakfast in the Central Valley. Famous for its rich volcanic soil, the Central Valley is a booming agricultural region known for almonds, grapes, tomatoes, peaches and strawberries. After breakfast we continue our journey up through the cattle and horse ranching foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains to the American River.

The Class III whitewater action begins immediately with Meatgrinder rapids, followed by other exciting cascades including Racehorse Bend, Rock Garden, Triple Threat, and climaxing with a mad dash through the famed Troublemaker rapid. Our trip ends as we pull ashore back at camp where your guides prepare a tasty barbeque lunch.

After lunch, there is time to play some beach volleyball and relax by the river. We think it's important to explore the Gold Country, so we will then be heading over to a local winery for some tasting before heading back to the city. The tour ends with a hotel drop off between 6:00 and 6:30 pm.

What Is Provided?

In April and May, the water is cold and the flow rate is higher. Though the weather is warm, wetsuits and booties are provided. From June through September, the weather is hot and the water is refreshing, so wetsuits are not necessary.

No Experience Necessary

Your safety is our main concern. A brief safety talk is given before anyone gets in the water. The South Fork of the American River is a Class III river system. This is ideal for beginners as well as intermediate paddlers.

No prior whitewater experience is necessary, but participants are required weigh at least 80 pounds and be at least 8 years of age (younger, lighter children will be permitted with parental consent).