Rafting - Middle Fork American in Auburn
About this experience
Navigate the raging rapids of the South Fork American River, California's most popular whitewater river, with this whitewater rafting experience in Lotus, California!
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Delivery
Epic adventure. Great Guides. Would do it again in a heartbeat
What's Included
- Tour provider has been guiding California whitewater rafting trips since 1978
- All rafting guides are both highly trained and knowledgeable professionals
- Lunch included on this 17-mile stretch of rafting
- Great for a beginner, a seasoned rafter and whole families!
What happens on the day
The Middle Fork American is a suitable raft trip for the active, fit and adventurous first-timer or a great choice for those seeking a step-up from the South Fork American River.
Your trip is set in a beautiful wilderness canyon that is eligible for Federal Wild & Scenic status. From its headwaters in the Granite Chief Wilderness, it flows through steep, rugged and forested canyons within the Tahoe National Forest and into the Auburn State Recreation Area.
This is one of your guides' favorite California white water rafting runs, as they appreciate escaping into this pristine road-less area. This American River Rafting Class 4 adventure is close to civilization, yet it is possible to feel that you are the only people on the river.
The infamous "Tunnel Chute" is one of the first big rapids encountered and there are numerous Class III-IV rapids in the first 6 miles, such as Last Chance, Submarine Hole and Kanaka. For the next 7 miles, the pace is more mellow, allowing time to appreciate the solitude and beauty of the lush, forested canyon. You may get a glimpse of some wildlife, perhaps a bear, or spot a trout swimming in the incredibly clean and clear Sierra mountain water. We stop for lunch and possible side hikes while plenty of excitement lies ahead.
The Ruck-a-Chucky rapids start just below the entrance of Canyon Creek. A 20-foot drop through a sieve of huge boulders makes the middle of these 3 rapids a mandatory portage, but the Class IV drops of Upper and Lower Ruck-a-Chucky are usually runnable. A 2-mile gorge laced with Class III-IV rapids such as Parallel Parking and Catapult follow.
It's a long but satisfying day. Your rafting finishes after 17 miles, at the old Greenwood Bridge site. The bridge was demolished in the 1954 floods by a 50-foot wall of water that surged down the canyon after the old Hell Hole Reservoir failed.
Our vans shuttle you up a rough dirt road to your awaiting vehicles where you can review photos taken earlier. You should be on the road by 5:00pm reminiscing about your day all the way home!
Location
Locations shown shouldn't be used for route planning
Availability
When Do I Choose A Date?
Either yourself or the lucky recipient can make a booking and select dates once you are in receipt of the voucher. You’ll register the voucher, follow the booking instructions, and your experience with us begins!
Late-May - September:
Thursday through Tuesday - 8:00 AM
Important Details
Essential Information
- All necessary rafting equipment, lunch and transportation back to your vehicle at the meeting location will be provided
- The minimum age for this rafting trip is 14 years
- Adventurous beginner to intermediate level with class III - IV+ rapids
- Swimming skills required
Duration
Experience Provider Info
Maximum Participants
Spectators
Weather Dependent
What to Wear
FAQs
Are there any weight and height restrictions?
There is no specific weight limitation, however, each participant must fit into one of the life jackets with all buckles fastened. The regular flotation devices (PFD’s) fit a torso circumference of 52 inches maximum.
Returns, Exchanges & Cancellations
Returns
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be returned hassle-free within 14 days. All refunds will be made to the original purchaser.
Exchanges
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be exchanged for anything else in our marketplace at any time. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs more, you'll simply have to pay the difference. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs less, you'll have a credit towards your next booking with Virgin Gifts.
Cancellation Policy
Once you have scheduled a date and received a booking confirmation, cancellations and rescheduling are allowed up to 30 days prior to the experience for a $50 per person cancellation fee. Failure to appear on your booked date or to cancel or reschedule at least 30 days prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your experience.
Customer Reviews
Epic adventure. Great Guides. Would do it again in a heartbeat
Response from Virgin Gifts
Hi Sharon, It truly sounds like a one-of-a-kind type of day! So happy to hear that you had a great time on the water, and rode the waves for a day! I can't wait to get you back out there for another fun and challenging route! Best, Brianna
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