Class IV-V North Fork American River, CA

Visitors to the North Fork enjoy a semi-wilderness setting. River access is possible at the lower end near the Colfax-Iowa Hill bridge, or by a strenuous descent by trail from a few locations along the canyon rim. Whitewater recreation through this segment of river is Class V which means experts only, and only under certain conditions of flow. Typically, the whitewater run of the North Fork Wild River segment termed the “Giant Gap Run” is possible only during the spring and early summer. Please note: This river is not recommended for the inexperienced boater. (BLM) rivers.gov