American River Stream Flows
How much water is in the river?
Just What is CFS
anyway?
CFS stands for Cubic Feet per Second, and it's a
measure of the volume of water passing any given point in a river in one
second. One cubic foot of water weighs 62.5 pounds.
Why does the river level fluctuate
so much?
There are a series of dams upstream of the
South Fork and
Middle Forks of the American River
which provide water for electrical power, irrigation, and drinking for
residents of California. The most water is released in the spring and summer,
supplying plenty of exciting whitewater action. This assures you of a great
raft trip all the way through the end of September, even in low snowpack years.
The North Fork American is not dam
controlled, and is therefore runable only in April, May, and early June,
depending on the snowpack and rainfall each year.
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STREAMFLOW FOR THE SOUTH FORK AMERICAN
RIVER |
South Fork of the American
The South Fork usually runs from May through October. Consistent flows for
whitewater rafting are controlled by the upstream reservoirs in the summertime
with added runoff in the spring. Snow melt, precipitation, air temperature and
reservoir releases can affect current river levels.
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There's a reason why the South
Fork of the American is one of the most popular whitewater rafting trips in the
world! |
What do the numbers mean?
- 1100-1700 CFS = Normal flows, usually
associated with late summer and fall. Plenty of Class
III whitewater rafting and beautiful scenery. Great for first-timers,
groups and families, yet still fun for experienced boaters.
- 1700-4000 CFS = Medium - High flows.
Challenging Class III+ whitewater rafting,
exciting for first timers and veterans alike. Big waves and swift-moving water.
- Above 4000 CFS = High flows. Challenging
Class III+ whitewater rafting. Fast-moving water,
with powerful waves and long rapids.
CLOSE THIS WINDOW TO
GO BACK
|
STREAMFLOW FOR THE MIDDLE FORK AMERICAN
RIVER |
Middle Fork of the American
The Middle Fork usually runs from May through October. Consistent flows for
whitewater rafting are controlled by the upstream reservoirs in the summertime
with added runoff in the spring. Snow melt, precipitation, air temperature and
reservoir releases can affect current river levels
 |
Join American Whitewater
Expeditions for a thrilling trip down the Class IV Middle Fork of the
American! |
What do the numbers mean?
- 800 - 1100 CFS = Normal flows. Perfect for
aggressive first timers or experienced whitewater paddlers. An excellent
opportunity to experience Class IV whitewater
rafting while enjoying the stunning beauty of the Middle Fork canyon.
- 1100 - 1700 CFS = Medium - High flows. More
challenging Class IV whitewater, yet suitable for
a wide range of skill levels.
- Above 1700 CFS = High flows.
Class IV whitewater with additional challenges.
May occur only a few weeks in spring.
CLOSE THIS WINDOW TO
GO BACK
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STREAMFLOW FOR THE NORTH FORK AMERICAN
RIVER |
North Fork of the American
The North Fork runs during April & May (and sometimes, if we've been good,
into June). This river has no dams. The longevity of flows is dependent on the
weather and snowpack. Snow melt, precipitation, air temperature and reservoir
releases can affect current river levels. Proceed with caution when rafting at
high flows.
 |
The North Fork is one of jewels
of California. Enjoy it's awesome rapids and scenic beauty with American
Whitewater this season. Trips book early, so call now! |
What do the numbers mean?
- 800-1200 CFS = Lower flows.
Class IV whitewater rafting. Great for veteran
paddlers and for some athletic & adventurous first timer passengers.
- 1200-3000 CFS = Medium to high flows.
Challenging Class V whitewater rafting, exciting
for veterans. Previous experience preferred and helpful. Bigger waves and swift
moving water.
- Above 3000 CFS = High flows. Challenging
Class V whitewater. Fast-moving water, with
powerful waves and rapids. Participants should be athletic individuals with
previous experience.
CLOSE THIS WINDOW TO
GO BACK
Take the Plunge
Find Out More About California River
Rafting...
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