Experience the thrill of Class III rapids on the Lower Gorge Run in Lotus, California. Enjoy dynamic paddling, stunning granite walls, and a relaxing riverside lunch with Mother Lode River Trips.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to paddle through Class III rapids and handle physical activity for several hours.
Wildlife
History
The Lower American River was historically a key route for gold miners during the California Gold Rush in the 1800s.
Conservation
Mother Lode River Trips practices Leave No Trace principles to protect the river environment and supports local conservation efforts.
Mother Lode River Trips
Experience the thrill of Class III rapids on the Lower Gorge Run in Lotus, California. Enjoy dynamic paddling, stunning granite walls, and a relaxing riverside lunch with Mother Lode River Trips.
Mother Lode River Trips is an outdoor adventure provider based in Lotus, California, offering multi-activity river and land experiences focused on the South Fork of the American River and nearby Sierra Nevada foothills.
The company features whitewater rafting through Class II and Class III rapids in a granite-walled gorge, zipline and ropes-course combination experiences, full- and half-day Gold Rush and Native American history educational programs for youth groups and schools, and exclusive campsite accommodations for overnight stays.
Rafting options include the Lower Gorge Run (Class III) that includes lunch, and a value Gorge trip without lunch, both covering notable rapids such as Fowler’s Rock and Satan’s Cesspool and concluding with a refreshment stop at Folsom Lake.
The Zipline, Ropes, and Rafting Combo Experience pairs tree-top ziplines and ropes challenges with river runs on the South Fork of the American River, combining aerial courses and whitewater sections in a single outing.
Educational Gold Rush History modules are available as half-day or full-day programs and are designed for youth organizations and schools, integrating Gold Rush and Native American history with geology and river ecology lessons.
Campsite accommodations are presented as exclusive tent setups for camping under the stars, appropriate for families, groups, or solo visitors.
All trip descriptions specify river sections, rapid classes, and any included amenities where noted. Mother Lode River Trips operates from Lotus, California, and focuses on the natural scenery and historic context of the Sierra Nevada rivers. Reservations, schedules, and detailed itineraries are listed on the official website online.
Location
Lotus, California
Base camp for all trips
River & Gorge
South Fork of the American River
Granite-walled lower gorge
Suitable For
Beginner–Intermediate paddlers
Family and youth-friendly trips
Educational Programs
Half and full-day modules
Designed for schools and youth groups
Check availability and reserve preferred dates for rafting, zipline combos, Gold Rush programs, or campsite stays in Lotus, CA.
Wear a Personal Flotation Device
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket to ensure safety during rapids.
Bring Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure while on the river, especially during summer.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated before and after your adventure.
Listen Carefully to Your Guide
Follow all instructions for navigating rapids safely and enjoying the experience fully.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Helps keep you comfortable and dry faster after splashes or swimming.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects skin from sunburn during long exposure on the water.
summer
Water Shoes or Secure Sandals
Protects feet and provides traction on wet surfaces when getting in and out of the raft.
Light Windbreaker or Wet Suit Top
Keeps you warm during cooler river temps and windy conditions.
spring