Beginner

Lower Middle Fork American River

Intermediate

Upper South Fork: Chili Bar

Lower South Fork: The Gorge

Full South Fork: Chili Bar + The Gorge

Multi-Day South Fork Rafting Trip

Advanced

Middle Fork: Tunnel Chute

North Fork American River

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The Confluence Blog

The Local Area Guide

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Season open March through October 2023. 

Pre-season specials happening now! Check Our Rafting Discounts Here.

Featured Trips

“Chili Bar”

  • Upper South Fork
  • 11 Mile Trip Length
  • 8:30am Departure
  • Intermediate Level

“The Gorge”

  • Lower South Fork
  • 13 Mile Trip Length
  • Midday Departure
  • Intermediate Level

“The Full River”

  • Upper + Lower South Fork
  • 21 Mile Full Day Trip
  • 8:30am Departure
  • Intermediate Level

Whitewater Rafting Scout Merit Badge

Our whitewater rafting trip is perfect for Youth Groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and we would love to host your Troop as they complete their Whitewater Rafting Merit badge! Our Council approved and registered Counselors will aid your Scouts in learning about and safely operating a raft, while identifying unique river features and safety components for white water navigation. This experience is available in single day or two day options. We are licensed, bonded, insured, and BSA Council Approved!

Large Groups

Here at Sierra Whitewater Rafting, we specialize in providing highly tailored experiences catering to your group’s specific wants and needs. From custom menu options and meal plans to multi-day rafting trips with camping and tent accommodations, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re getting together on summer break with a group of 10 family friends, or hosting a corporate getaway with 115 people, Sierra Whitewater has everything you need for a seamless and fun whitewater rafting experience which will undoubtedly be the highlight of everyone’s summer!

The Best California White Water Rafting Experience on the American River

The American River is the best place for whitewater rafting in the Sierra Nevada – near San Francisco and Sacramento. Why not come up and camp for the weekend? You can river raft 2 days! Join us on a California whitewater rafting river adventure! We offer exciting whitewater rafting tours on the south, middle and north forks of California’s famous American River. We have a range of different runs to suit all ages and experience levels. In addition we offer:

Lunch and Dinner Catering

Rafting for Large Groups (learn more)

Exciting White Water Trips for Any Occasion!

Meet Our Guides

Have you already been white water rafting with us on the American River? There is a good chance Hotshot Imaging got some epic shots of you river rafting California’s most popular rapids! You can view and order your photos here.

Why Choose Sierra Whitewater Rafting?

We are a local, family owned and operated business and have proudly been in operating in the Sierra foothills since 2008. We always put your safety first with highly trained guides, top quality equipment and full insurance. There’s nothing like the feeling of conquering rafting the American River rapids while cruising through pristine wilderness in a raft.

Local + Family Owned

Safety is Our #1 Priority

Get Close to Nature

Local Area Guide

Places to Eat

  • Sierra Rizing Cafe
  • Old Town Pizza
  • Joe Caribes
  • And More!

Hiking Spots

  • Dave Moore Nature Area
  • Dutch Creek Falls Trailhead
  • Gerle Loop Trail
  • And More!