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 California. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive.
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country
Temecula Valley
Southern California Wine CountryThe vineyards of California have produced some of the best wines the world over. A sampling at a local winery in Stockton is a great way to experience what is special about this beautiful part of California. 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.
Lake Havasu City Western Arizona
Lake Havasu City
Western ArizonaWelcome to Lake Havasu City…where you can Play Like You Mean It®! Located on the Arizona shoreline of Lake Havasu, Lake Havasu City is a destination for boaters, water sport enthusiasts, hikers, nature lovers, car enthusiasts and history buffs. It attracts 775,000 visitors a year with its calm waters, beautiful beaches and desert weather with more than 300 sunny days a 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.
Visalia Sequoia and King's Canyon National Parks
Visalia
Sequoia and King's Canyon National ParksIn the heart of California is one of America's most vibrant destinations—Visalia CA. The breathtaking mountain scenery is met with a friendly, warm culture and provides an ideal backdrop for inspired vacations. The area boasts a thriving arts community, diverse outdoor adventures, a fun and inviting downtown, numerous historic attractions and amazing food. To assist your members and clients in planning the perfect Visalia getaway, we offer you this introduction and overview of what to expect when you visit Visalia. 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.
Carmel-By-The-Sea Monterey Peninsula
Carmel-By-The-Sea
Monterey PeninsulaIn Carmel-by-the-Sea you can dine at a number of four-star restaurants or eat al fresco at the beach. You can collect art or just covet art at almost 100 galleries and antique shops and you can buy anything from trinkets to Tiffanys. Even those who travel the world are unlikely to encounter another place that has so much to offer in one location. 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.
Oceanside Southern California
Oceanside
Southern CaliforniaOceanside is a classic California beach community with its warm sandy beaches, historic wooden pier and Cape Cod-style harbor village complete with unlimited water sports and recreation. Offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle, visitors still experience the casual spirit that made Southern California’s beach culture legendary. 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.
Catalina Island Southern California
Catalina Island
Southern CaliforniaDiscover the magical island of Catalina, just off the coast of Southern California. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a place to bring the entire family or need a few days to unwind, Catalina Island is the perfect destination. Note: We encourage visitors to use the 2024 digital guide. The 2025 printed guide will not ship until late January. 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.
Specialty Guides
Maverick Helicopters Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California
Maverick Helicopters
Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and CaliforniaUnforgettable Tours Offered in Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California. 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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