South Fork American River Half-Day Rafting Trip from Sacramento

About this activity

Smartphone tickets accepted
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
English
Immediate confirmation
From
€101 €92
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Experience Highlights

Experience the adrenaline rush of Class II-III rapids on the South Fork of the American River, just over an hour from Sacramento. The half-day trip includes certified guides, all safety equipment and a short course on paddling techniques before entering the water.

You'll depart from the Adventure Centre in Lotus, where you'll be given a helmet, waistcoat and paddle; after a short shuttle transfer, you'll start paddling past pine trees, granite boulders and crystal-clear streams. The activity is suitable for people over 8 years old and no previous experience is required.

  • Book your raft and secure your place in high season.
  • Cool off in the valley with safe and fun rapids.
  • Enjoy digital photos included to relive every wave.

What’s included

  • Half-day descent of the South Fork
  • Certified guides, safety briefing and pre-practice
  • Complete equipment: raft, helmet, paddle and lifejacket.
  • Transfer by shuttle bus to boarding point

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Step by Step

After a welcome at the rafting centre, guides go over basic manoeuvres, paddle signals and safety precautions. A short bus ride brings you to the boarding point; as you take your seat on the raft, you'll feel your heart race at the first roar of the water.

The descent starts gently, ideal for practising getting in sync with your equipment before tackling iconic rapids such as the Barking Dog and Highway Rapid. Between each wave, the river offers backwaters to admire the riparian vegetation, blue herons and the occasional otter. The guides take the opportunity to tell anecdotes of the Gold Rush, recalling that these same canyons hosted fortune seekers more than 170 years ago.

The central section alternates sparkling swells and tight turns that force you to dig your oar in and feel the power of the water in your arms. Here the raft splashes just enough to cool you down, but without compromising stability; it's the perfect mix of thrill and safety.

On the final stretch, the river opens up into a mirror of water where you can jump out of the raft for a splash while cold drinks and fresh fruit are served. Back at the camp, showers, changing rooms and a screen showing photos taken on the most spectacular rapids await you.

With your skin still throbbing and the smell of pine in the air, you'll return to Sacramento knowing you've conquered one of California's most iconic rivers in just half a day.

Departure and Return

Other Things You Should Know

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