South Fork American River: Chili Bar (Class III Whitewater)
South Fork American River: Chili Bar (Class III Whitewater)
Action awaits on this historical trip on one of California’s most popular rivers! This run offers 9-12 miles of whitewater excitement. Travel through the golden foothills as splashes of cool mountain water invigorate and awaken you.
In 1848 the South Fork of the American River changed the world when gold was first discovered in the stream bed. The California Gold Rush was born. Today folks are still attracted to the region, not for its gold but for its whitewater rapids such as the Class III “Meat Grinder”, "Tripple Threat", and "Troublemaker".
Book This ExperienceA glimpse of the journey
Your Itinerary
A curated journey through the experience
Placerville
Our tour begins at the historic town of Placerville, Ca. Located in the foothills of California just outside of Sacramento. Placerville was established as a Gold Rush town. Many historical shops and restaurants are located here in on it main street.
South Fork of the American River
Our rafting trip takes place on the South Fork American River Chile Bar Section. Whitewater awaits with Class III+ Whitewater such as "Meat-Grinder", "Tripple Threat", and "Troublemaker". As the trip progresses downstream, the tour passes by the historical town of Coloma where gold was first discovered by back in 1848
5 hoursMarshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
We spot for lunch frequently at the Marshal Gold Discovery State Park. As the guides create lunch for you and your group. We invite you to check out the nature trails and attractions. throughout the park plaques and artifacts tell the story of Jame Marshall and his discovery of Gold in the river. The single discovery of gold changed the course of history and has shaped California into what it is today.
1 hourIncluded
- Price includes PFD, Helmet, lunch and transportation from meeting place.
- Lunch
- Wetsuits and splash jackets available when needed
- Entry/Admission - Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
- Entry/Admission - South Fork of the American River
Not Included
- Price does not include any photography offered by 3rd parties
Good to Know
- Not wheelchair accessible
- A minimum of 4 people is required to run the tour. If your group is smaller than this number we will need to add you to an existing trip.
- 7 years old is minimum age.
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Weight limit of 250 lbs per person
- What to Wear:
- We ask that all guests dress to get wet! We recommend beach apparel: bathing suit, t-shirt, shorts. Quick drying, non-cotton clothes are preferred. You need to wear shoes that securely strap or tie to your feet: tennis shoes, water shoes, or river sandals (NO flip flops).
- During Spring, Fall, or cold weather trips we may provide wet suits and splash gear. Its recommended for you to also bring along a warm layer. Fleece, polypropylene, wool, and Under Armor are all good options.
- Open the link below for Trip Planning:
- If anyone in your group is over 250lbs please contact our office.
- Most travelers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Tickets & Cancellation
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.