Navigate exciting Class II and III rapids on a 10.5-mile stretch of the American River near Lotus, California. Perfect for beginner to intermediate paddlers looking for an adrenaline-filled day on the water.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level capable of paddling and maneuvering in Class II and III rapids.
Wildlife
History
The American River played a crucial role during the California Gold Rush and still retains historic mining sites along its banks.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups and Mother Lode River Trips focus on maintaining water quality and protecting native habitat along the river corridor.
Mother Lode River Trips
Navigate exciting Class II and III rapids on a 10.5-mile stretch of the American River near Lotus, California. Perfect for beginner to intermediate paddlers looking for an adrenaline-filled day on the water.
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 quick-drying clothing
Choose moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabrics to stay comfortable during and after the rafting trip.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the California sun and active river environment.
Secure your valuables
Use waterproof bags to keep phones, keys, and other essentials safe and dry on the raft.
Be prepared for splash zones
Expect to get wet on this trip, so waterproof footwear and either sandals with straps or river shoes are recommended.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
A safety-required life jacket to ensure buoyancy on the river.
Water shoes or secure sandals
Protect your feet while allowing water drainage and grip on slippery surfaces.
summer
Quick-dry clothing
Comfortable clothing that dries fast to keep you warm and comfortable on and off the water.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during exposed river stretches.
spring