American River, South Fork - The Gorge

California-US  

Description

The Gorge on the South Fork is another extremely popular run that goes from Greenwood Creek to Folsom Reservoir.  It's close proximity to Sacramento and many other Northern CA towns makes this an easy go to.  Commercial companies have a strong presence here and weekends can be a zoo.  So if you are looking for a solitary float this is not the run for you.  However, if you want a nice class III romp in a rural gorge in the clear waters of the south fork then this is a great run.  Kayakers wanting to step up to Class III level will want to put this on their todo list.  Rafters have plenty of waves and holes to hit plus flat water to have their much needed water fights on summer nights.  This section is probably a little easier than the Chili Bar run but can still be as fun.

The South Fork is Dam controlled and this run can be run all year long as long as you catch the dam releases.  Springtime will bring bigger runoff flows.

Statistics

Class III to III+
Current Flow 335.0 CFS
02-12-2018 13:30
Recommended Flow Minimum: 800.0
Average: 1500.0
Maximum: 4000.0
Typical Season Begins: January
Ends: December
Recommended Use Kayaking: Yes
Rafting: Yes
Canoeing: No
SUP: No
Packrafting: No
Fishing: Yes
Primary Gauge AMERICAN RIVER AT CHILI BAR
Length 8.0 Mile(s)
Gradient 23.0 FPM