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Lower Middle Fork American River - Float Trip

Guided

Duration: 3 hours

Coloma

Features

Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Shuttle Included
Instant Book
Locally Owned
$119 Person (Monday-Friday)
(Ages 14+)
$139 Person (Saturday & Sunday)
(Ages 14+)

Description

Middle Fork American River Rafting Trip – Lower Middle Fork (Class II, Half-Day)

The Lower Middle Fork American River offers a peaceful and scenic rafting experience, perfect for those seeking a mellow, family-friendly float with just the right amount of splashy excitement. This 7-mile, 3-hour section winds through the remote and rugged beauty of the Tahoe National Forest, offering paddlers a chance to unplug and soak in the natural surroundings.
Ideal for families with young kids, first-time rafters, or multi-generational groups, the Lower Middle Fork is a gentle introduction to whitewater rafting with fun and friendly Class II rapids every few minutes. You’ll float through an area rich in Gold Rush history, surrounded by stunning granite walls, pine-covered hillsides, and clear mountain water. Thanks to consistent summer flows, this trip is a great option during the mid to late summer months when other rivers begin to run low.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or introducing your little ones to the joy of rafting, the Lower Middle Fork delivers beauty, fun, and a gentle taste of adventure.

Duration

3 hours on the water | 7 miles
Total trip duration, including check-in, shuttle, and rafting, is approximately 4–4.5 hours from start to finish.

Location / Where to Meet

Action Whitewater

Ages & Requirements

Ages 4+, depending on river flows
Minimum weight: 30 lbs

What's Included

  1. Professional guide
  2. All rafting equipment – Paddle, helmet, life jacket, and wetsuit (if needed)
  3. Shuttle to and from the river put-in/take-out points

Not Included

  1. Guide gratuity
  2. Photos & souvenirs available – Purchase trip photos and keepsakes at our camp store

What to Bring/Wear

  1. Quick-drying clothing – Avoid cotton; opt for synthetic or wool materials
  2. Secure swimwear or shorts – Board shorts or athletic wear that dries quickly
  3. Secure footwear – Water shoes, sandals with straps (like Tevas or Chacos), or old sneakers (no flip-flops)
  4. Sunglasses with a retainer strap
  5. Sunscreen
  6. Change of clothes & towel – For after the trip

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Action Whitewater

FAQs

Is previous experience required?

No - this is a beginner-friendly trip, great for families with young kids!

What class rapids will we encounter?

The Lower Middle Fork American River features Class II rapids, but nothing too extreme—perfect for a fun, adventurous ride.

Do I need to know how to swim?

While knowing how to swim is helpful and highly recommended, it is not required. All participants wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, and guides will provide a safety briefing before the trip.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rafting trips run rain or shine. However, in the rare case of extreme weather or unsafe river conditions, we may reschedule or cancel the trip with a full refund.

Can I bring my phone or camera?

We recommend leaving valuables behind, as they can easily get lost or damaged. Professional photos will be available for purchase after the trip.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks!

Should I tip my guide?

Tipping is not required but greatly appreciated. If you had a great experience, 10% - 20% of the trip cost is a good guideline.

Is there camping available at your headquarters?

Yes! We have on-site camping at our Motherlode River Center Campgrounds. Just let us know in the comments at checkout that you're interested in camping, and we'll reach out to you.

Camping Pricing: Space: $30/night per person – you provide and set up your own equipment. Standard: $40/night per person – we provide and set up a tent, sleeping pad & camp chair. Deluxe: $45/night per person – we provide and set up a tent, sleeping pad & camp chair as well as a freshly laundered sleeping bag. Parking: There is a $5.00/night parking fee at our South Fork Camp.

What is the best day of the week to go rafting?

We recommend rafting mid-week whenever possible! Our mid-week pricing is slightly discounted, and there will be much fewer people on the river, making for a more intimate and pristine experience.

Cancellation Policy

Refunds for cancellations with 30+ days notice prior to date of trip will be assessed a 15% processing fee.
Cancellations with less than 30 days' notice will not receive a refund and may be assessed a cancellation/rescheduling fee of $30/person.
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Availability

May 2025
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

Reviews

Location

Address

6260 Hwy 49

Lotus, CA, 95651

US

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