Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.

Rapid CA Class II

Swimmer's Rapid

American, South Fork - 6. Route 193 to Coloma (CA)

Monitor this Rapid

Gauge Conditions

SF American River near Placerville CA Upstream Primary

Runnable: ? – ? CFS

Approximate - nearest available gauge. Use as general reference only.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS

CDEC Flow Data California

AMERICAN RIVER JNC Primary Dam Release

Elevation: 4,468 ft

AMERICAN RIVER ICH Primary Dam Release

Elevation: 5,454 ft

AMERICAN RIVER AMK Primary

Elevation: 3,840 ft

Data from California Data Exchange Center (CDEC)

Photo

Photo courtesy of American Whitewater

Description

Swimmer's Rapid features a series of moderate waves and scattered rocks that can challenge paddlers, particularly at lower water levels when maneuvering becomes more technical. The primary line runs center-right, avoiding potential pin spots near the left bank, with moderate hydraulics that require attentive boat control and reading water. Inexperienced paddlers should be cautious of potential boat flips in the main current and be prepared for potential swim scenarios.