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South Fork American River – Chili Bar Express
Great for those short on time! Surf a hole at Chili Bar Hole and enjoy favorite rapids like Meatgrinder, Triple Threat, and Trouble Maker — the river’s most exciting challenge. Follow it with a calm float through Marshall Gold Discovery State Park in Coloma.
- Dates: April–September
- Level: Class 3 – Beginner/Intermediate
- Best For: First Timers to Experienced Rafters
- Minimum Age: 7
- Duration: Half-Day (9:30 AM – 1:30 PM)
- Meals: None
- Location: Coloma, CA – Near Sacramento
Departure
Meet at 9:30 AM at the private Camp Lotus campground. You'll connect with your guide and receive all needed gear: paddles, life jackets, helmets.
The Trip
Experience some of the most fun rapids and scenic stretches on the American River.
Return
You’ll return between 1:00–2:00 PM, with access to showers, photos, and Camp Lotus amenities. Want to camp? Book online or call ahead.
South Fork American River – Gorge Express (Lower) – Half-Day
Get ready as the canyon narrows into granite walls and delivers Class 3 drops like Satan’s Cesspool, Bouncing Rock, and Hospital Bar. Perfect for all group sizes.
- Dates: April–September
- Level: Class 3 – Beginner/Intermediate
- Best For: First Timers to Experienced Rafters
- Minimum Age: 7
- Duration: Half-Day (12:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
- Meals: None
- Location: Lotus, CA – Near Sacramento
Departure
Meet at 12:30 PM at Camp Lotus. Gear and guidance are provided.
The Trip
Enjoy thrilling rapids and river views on this action-packed ride.
Return
Return between 4:30–5:30 PM. Showers and photos available at Camp Lotus. Camping option available with advance booking.
Middle Fork American River – 1 Day
An all-day adventure with 18 miles of whitewater and the legendary Tunnel Chute — a blast-from-the-past tunnel through solid mountain rock. Great for seasoned paddlers or athletic first-timers.
- River: Middle Fork American River
- Section: Oxbow Reservoir to Ruck-a-Chucky Campground
- Best For: Adventurers, Thrill Seekers, and Experienced Rafters
- Class: 4 (IV)
- Minimum Age: 12
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Experienced
- Location: Auburn, CA – Near Sacramento
- Meals: Fresh Gourmet Deli Lunch
- Duration: Full Day (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM)
Departure
Meet at 8:30 AM behind Raley's in Auburn at 13384 Lincoln Way. After a quick intro, shuttle to the put-in at Oxbow Reservoir.
The Trip
Starts fast with Good Morning Rapid, Tunnel Chute, and Kanaka Falls. Enjoy lunch mid-day, then tackle Class 3–4 rapids like Clevage, Texas Chainsaw, and more.
Return
Shuttle back to the Raley’s parking lot. Travel time: ~20 minutes.
North Fork American River – Express (Half Day)
The North Fork is constant whitewater — tight canyon walls, steep drops, and big action. This Class 4+ run is short, intense, and built for those who want full focus and adrenaline.
- Dates: April–June
- Level: Class 4+ – Advanced
- Best For: Thrill Seekers & Experienced Rafters
- Minimum Age: 14
- Duration: Half-Day
- Meals: None
- Location: Auburn, CA – Near Sacramento
Departure
Departure time varies by permit. Meet behind Raley’s in Auburn, then shuttle ~25 minutes to the Iowa Hill Rd. Bridge.
The Trip
Starts with intense Class 4–5 rapids. Navigate a granite gorge with wildflowers, wildlife, and serious technical paddling. The trip ends with calm water through a remote wilderness stretch.
Return
Wrap up with a return shuttle to Raley’s parking lot.
Fine Print
Expiration varies. Amount paid never expires.
Online reservation required. Subject to weather. Must sign waiver. Must be 7 or older for the South Fork trip. Must be 12 or older for the Middle Fork trip. Must be 14 or older North Fork trip. Subject to river flow. Wetsuits are recommended through mid-May; extra fee for wetsuit rental. River use fee of $10 per person; due upon redemption. Length of availability for North Fork is subject to snow melt and river flow. Visit raftwet.com to make a reservation. Younger than 18 must have guardian-signed waiver. Valid Monday-Friday Only. Not on weekends. Please keep in mind: "Express" options do not include lunch. Valid only for option purchased. Limit 5 per person. All goods or services must be used by the same person. Reservation Required Before Arrival.
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About WET River Trips
Experience the best in whitewater rafting with WET River Trips. With over 45 years of expertise, we prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring unforgettable adventures for all. Join us on the South Fork American River or explore other thrilling rivers—discover why we're the top-rated choice