South Fork American River Whitewater Rafting Trip (Class 3+)
Overview
The most popular destination for whitewater rafting in California, the South Fork of the American River is a great introduction to professionally guided rafting trips. The Upper "Chili Bar" section offers exhilarating Class 3 rapids, followed by calmer stretches perfect for swimming or simply soaking in the beauty of the surrounding Gold Country landscape. This river is ideal for families with kids and any group wanting to enjoy a fun yet relaxing day on the river. You can look forward to... Exciting Rapids: Experience thrilling Class 2 and Class 3 rapids, perfect for beginners and seasoned adventurers; Expert Guides: Benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable guides who ensure an enjoyable and seamless journey down the river; Stunning Scenery: Raft through scenic stretches of the South Fork American River, the birthplace of the California Gold Rush of 1849; Convenient Timing: A Half-Day trip fits easily into your schedule, making it a great adventure without taking up your whole day.
What's Included
- River shuttle to/from the Meet Place for your trip
- All Fees and Taxes
- Water, snacks on the raft and non-alcoholic beverage after the trip
- Wetsuits and Splash Jackets (seasonally dependent)
- All rafting and safety equipment including PFD (life jacket) and Helmet.
- Professional River Guide and Instruction
- Lunch
Meeting Location
1026 Lotus Road
Lotus, CA 95651, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
With over six decades of experience guiding guests down California's best rivers, we've perfected the art of crafting unforgettable rafting adventures. As a family-owned business, we pour our heart into every trip, creating experiences that blend excitement with a personal touch.
Our passionate guides are not just experts on the river's rapids—they're storytellers who share their love for the South Fork, bringing the river's history, ecology, and hidden gems to life. Beyond the excitement of the rapids, they foster a sense of camaraderie among fellow rafters.
Let us introduce you to the magic of the South Fork American River and help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
Additional Info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Travelers who are pregnant, have back or heart problems, or other medical conditions should consult their physician prior to booking.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Whitewater rafting is an active participatory sport, however reasonable accommodations can be made for guests with disabilities. Please contact us to discuss prior to booking.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (8)
Q: Will I get seasick on South Fork American River Whitewater Rafting Trip (Class 3+)?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-143716P2
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.83 out of 5 stars based on 6 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (8)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
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If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- River shuttle to/from the Meet Place for your trip.
- All Fees and Taxes.
- Water, snacks on the raft and non-alcoholic beverage after the trip.
- Wetsuits and Splash Jackets (seasonally dependent).
- All rafting and safety equipment including PFD (life jacket) and Helmet.
- Professional River Guide and Instruction.
- Lunch.
The minimum age to participate is 8. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the South Fork American River Whitewater Rafting Trip (Class 3+) is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Travelers who are pregnant, have back or heart problems, or other medical conditions should consult their physician prior to booking.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for South Fork American River Whitewater Rafting Trip (Class 3+) will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- River shuttle to/from the Meet Place for your trip
- All Fees and Taxes
- Water, snacks on the raft and non-alcoholic beverage after the trip
- Wetsuits and Splash Jackets (seasonally dependent)
- All rafting and safety equipment including PFD (life jacket) and Helmet.
- Professional River Guide and Instruction
- Lunch
Additional Info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Travelers who are pregnant, have back or heart problems, or other medical conditions should consult their physician prior to booking.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Whitewater rafting is an active participatory sport, however reasonable accommodations can be made for guests with disabilities. Please contact us to discuss prior to booking.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
