California River Rafting Guide

GOLDEN STATE, GOLDEN TIMES: Rafting California's American River (courtesy, Sacramento CVB)

California's rugged Sierra peaks bestow priceless whitewater riches with the melting snows of spring. With some of the country's best whitewater rafting opportunities—not to mention, some of its best professional river-running outfits—the state has something for every type of paddler, from neophyte to seasoned adrenaline junkies. The most popular rivers can be found in the Central Valley region, east of Sacramento and in the western foothills of the Sierras. Here, melting snows from the High Sierras and controlled releases from hydroelectric dams and irrigation reservoirs combine into a frothy mix of high-octane fun. Highlights include the three forks of the American River, suitable for everything from one-day beginner runs to multi-day wilderness forays, and hardcore classics like the Stanislaus and Tuolumne Rivers. Move south, and the action doesn't let up, with excellent options on the water foaming out from the high peaks of Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks, including Class III-IV gauntlets like the Kern and King. Move north toward the coastal mountains and wet rainforests on the California-Oregon line, and you'll enjoy whitewater excitement on big rivers like the Klamath and Trinity.

Rafting Rivers in California