North Fork American River: Chamberlain Falls (Class IV+ Whitewater)

Type of Trip: Intermediate/ Advanced Whitewater

This section is Class IV+ Meaning Intermediate/ Advanced Rapids, Big Drops, Fast Currents, and Lots of Class II and Class III rapids with intermittent Class IV+ whitewater action. Perfect for river rafters looking for a memorable day with exciting moments.

We recommend for all of our Class IV whitewater rafting trips that guests have been rafting before, know how to swim, and are above age 13.

13’ and 14’ self-bailing river rafts are used

• On the North Fork of the American River, our rafts can take up to 6 guests + a guide.
• River flows on the North Fork American River fluctuate daily during the spring melt. On the higher flows we will take 14’ rafts which add stability in the large waves and hydraulic features. As the water drop and the rapids become tighter and more technical we will switch over to our smaller raft sizes to fit and be more agile.

Every day during peak run-off (usually April to June)

The North Fork of the American River Chamberlain Falls section is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The North Fork American River is uninhibited by upstream dams, creating a wild river experience. Since there are no upstream dams, this run is only available during spring snowmelt and high water seasons, so it’s important to plan ahead. Come join us on an adrenaline-filled day. This trip will sure to give you an amazing experience not available elsewhere.

We operate one trip a day, usually in April, May, and June. River flows will drop below runnable levels after peak snowmelt and the mid-summer months arrive.

Water that feeds the North Fork American River originates from the Sierra Crest located near Truckee, California. The headwaters of the North Fork American River can be found from various peaks between Sugar Bowl Ski Resort and Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort (formerly Squaw Valley). As little streams converge and drop steeply, impressive canyons are formed. The North Fork cuts steeply, forming canyons such as the “Royal Gorge”, “Generation Gap,” and “ Giant Gap,” collecting tributaries as the river works its way towards the Sacramento Valley.

The North Fork of the American River is a naturally flowing river with no dams or obstructions up steam from the commercial rafting section. Rain events and atmospheric river-type storms can easily raise the river to 10x its normal flow in impressive flood events. Because of these events, the rocks are polished and gorgeous along the river’s edge. Water Quality is amongst the cleanest and clearest on all of the American Rivers since it is all snowmelt from the previous day

Don’t miss out on a Spring rafting adventure on the North Fork of the American River as it is a true treat!

No! Shoes are required that will not come off, such as strap-on sandals, water shoes, booties, and old tennis shoes.

Flip-flops or slip-on shoes are not allowed for rafting. If you go for an unintentional swim, you will lose your flip-flops immediately. If you end up on shore or in a random place, you need to have good footwear to get back to the rafts or to be able to walk along the shoreline.

If you guide did a wonderful job and you had a fun experience tipping is an acceptable form of showing appreciation to your guide at the end of the tour.

Personal items should be locked in your personal vehicle throughout the day. Wallets, Cell phones, and Car Keys can also be kept in our river office while out for your rafting adventure!