7. Coloma to Greenwood Creek

The C to G run has many Class I and II rapids and is perfect for beginners and boaters of all skill levels. The run has long stretches of slow moving flat water, interspersed with riffles, but features several significant class 1, 2 and even 2+ rapids. Highway Rapid is particularly long. Barking Dog is a particularly fun playspot that can be enjoyed by boaters of all abilities. Thanks to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) hydropower operations, the river has dependable flows through much of the year, with releases from the Chili Bar Powerhouse providing boating flows mid-day most days during spring and summer, and on most weekends for the rest of the year. Logistics: Put in: A public launch area is located at the downstream end of the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma. A parking fee is required of all autos. Take out: Greenwood Creek river access has 40 parking stalls. Boats must be carried up a trail from the river to the parking area, a distance of approximately 300 yards. This area was developed by the Bureau of Land Management in 2005 that manages the site. Other access locations: Boaters can also launch a short ways upstream of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, at either American River Resort or Coloma Resort if they pay day fees or are camped there. Kayakers can launch at the highway 49 bridge, but parking is very limited. Henningson Lotus Park has a boat launching area at the downstream end of the park available with an access fee. Camp Lotus allows day use river access for a fee and is also a great campground midway through the run. Several other campgrounds along the river provide river access for their customers. Shuttle Service: The Coloma Shuttle provides transportation for people and their boats from the take-out at Greenwood Creek to the put-in at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park at mid-day. The shuttle also stops at Henningsen Lotus Park. Using the shuttle reduces air pollution and traffic congestion. As of 2024, the shuttle fleet includes two 14-passenger vans with kayak trailers. Rides cost $10, or a 12-ride pass is available for $100. Reservations are typically required on weekends or for alternative pick-up locations. To reserve, call 530-303-2404 or book online. The Coloma Shuttle is operated by the non-profit South Fork Arts and Recreation. Local Clubs: There are a number of active paddling clubs that frequent this river. Listed below are just a few of our American Whitewater affiliates: Gold Country Paddlers Chico Paddleheads Sierra Club: Loma Prieta Chapter Online Information: American River Page SF American at cacreeks.com The River Store is in Lotus. Check here to see other rivers in California of similar difficulty Class 1 & 2 Rivers River Conservancies: Protect American River Canyons works to protect the North and Middle forks of the American River, along with The American River Conservancy.