The famous Giant Gap 14-mile run of the even more famous North Fork American River is one of California's top whitewater challenges, for experts only. Cliffs tower 2,000 feet above the river. Parts of this Class V run are so rough that you might end up believing that some of those 2'000 foot cliffs are under the water.
Heaps of mine tailings and old cabin ruins border this roller-coaster ride through the historic Mother Lode. Stop to catch your breath at the Lover's Leap picnic area, which features California's most venerable black oak, estimated to be 350-450 years old.
Some rivers are wild and some are gentle and some are an exciting hybrid of both. The American River is a hybrid. Although never so gentle as to be a float trip, a beginning rafter won't be intimidated away. Conversely, the most experienced of experienced rafters won't be disappointed.
Some rivers are wild and some are gentle and some are an exciting hybrid of both. The American River is a hybrid. Although never so gentle as to be a float trip, a beginning rafter won't be intimidated away. Conversely, the most experienced of experienced rafters won't be disappointed.
River Details
Setting:
Mountains
Class:
Class III - V
River Length
15 miles
Time
Full Day
Season:
April to June
Nearest Town
Grass Valley
Guides Available?
Yes
Camping Info
Several Campgrounds Available
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Take U.S. 50 to the town of Placerville, then follow Hwy 49 to Hwy. 193 to the Chili BarReservoir. Highway 49 also runs through Coloma for river access at the state historic park.
We also have the following visitor guides in Wyoming. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive.
Bear Lake Northern Utah
Bear Lake
Northern UtahBear Lake Valley lies on the border of Utah and Idaho, and is home to the "Caribbean of the Rockies", or Bear Lake. Visitors can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities throughout the entire year. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Uintah County - Vernal Northeastern Utah
Uintah County - Vernal
Northeastern UtahEnjoy Dinosaur National Monument, scenic byways, state parks, wilderness areas, heritage trails, petroglyphs, and family fun. It's world-class fishing, river running, biking, hiking, and camping in alpine meadows and red rock canyons. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Logan - Cache Valley Northern Utah
Logan - Cache Valley
Northern UtahCache Valley is known as one of Utah's most naturally beautiful areas. For a real treat, take a breathtaking drive along the Logan Canyon national Scenic Byway. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Box Elder County Northern Utah
Box Elder County
Northern UtahBox Elder County is known as a land of contrasts. Visit the the quaint and beautiful town of Brigham City, or get outside and experience any number of outdoor activities within scenic Box Elder County. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Visit Idaho Idaho
Visit Idaho
IdahoStart planning your Idaho adventure. Vacation is more than just scenery; it’s about making life long memories. Download or order the free Idaho Travel Guide here. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Carbon County South Central
Carbon County
South CentralCarbon County, WY offers lots of great activities, fishing spots, area hiking, campsites, snowmobile trails, wildlife areas and cross country skiing trails and much more. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Visit Moffat County Northwestern Colorado
Visit Moffat County
Northwestern ColoradoWelcome to Colorado’s Great Northwest, Moffat County has nearly 2 million acres of public lands to explore. Experience places like Dinosaur National Monument, the Sand Wash Basin Wild Horse Management Area and free flowing rivers including the mighty Yampa, last of the wild ones! Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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Wyoming
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