In the Field: Photo Blog by Richard Wong

Photography field reports by Richard Wong. Richard’s work has been published in magazines, books, advertising, and offers fine art prints of his work. Images may be licensed as rights-managed stock photos by contacting Richard directly at Richard@rwongphoto.com or (626) 422-6151. California stock photography, fine art prints, photo blog: www.rwongphoto.com

South Fork of the American River

Posted on | November 7, 2007 | 4 Comments

South Fork of the American River, Coloma, California Picture of South Fork of the American River, Coloma, California

The Gold Rush began in this area when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill by James Marshall. Nowadays, the American River is perhaps best known for being a whitewater rafting mecca during the summer months. The South Fork has Class II & III rapids so it is ideal for beginners and those who want a little excitement in their life but aren’t ready to die yet either. :-) I believe the North Fork of the American River has Class III, IV, and V rapids so that section is a little more advanced. Another popular rafting place in the Sierra is the Merced River. Occasionally you might see rafters and kayakers in Yosemite Valley and in the Merced River Canyon which can be a little more tricky.

My friend, Jimmy and I rafted the South Fork in 2004. It was a little bit nerve-wracking at first to hear the safety instructions but once we completed our first series of rapids successfully, it was awesome! I’d totally do it again on a more difficult course if I knew people around here that were willing to do it. I think Jimmy would be up for it again also but he’s living out of the country at the moment. Next time, I’m going to try finding a way to bring my camera along.

This picture of us about to attack a rapid will have to suffice for now. You can’t see me in this photo because the wave is obscuring me. One wave was so big it flew over the raft and nearly knocked a couple of us into the river. Somehow I don’t think that rapid was a Class III on this day.

Whitewater Rafting on the South Fork of the American River, California Photo of Whitewater Rafting on the South Fork of the American River, California

See more of my Gold Country pictures.

Category: Coloma, Mother Lode
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Comments

4 Responses to “South Fork of the American River”

  1. Sherri Meyer
    November 8th, 2007 @ 8:04 am

    Hi Richard!

    I love this post! Why? Because it’s in my backyard and I have rafted the South Fork of the American River 8 or 10 times. We have several friends that used to be raft guides. One in particular was a guide for 14 years. We got a lot of free trips! We currently have other friends that own rafts, so the free opportunity is still there if we want it. I’m kind of burnt out to it now. I’d much rather kayak or canoe.

    Regarding bringing your camera, the only safe way to do it is with either a waterproof housing, or an underwater camera. You have to plan on your gear getting soaked or submerged!

    When I kayak or canoe, I nearly always carry my DSLR, but only if I’m paddling flatwater and the dog is in Jeff’s boat! Whenever I raft, I do always bring along a disposable waterproof camera. They are a little better than nothing!

  2. Richard
    November 8th, 2007 @ 9:18 am

    Nice! I could see kayaking being a lot more adventurous. Not sure I’d want a camera on a kayak trip. I think I’d do the housing if I were to bring one on a raft trip. They are expensive though.

  3. Ron Niebrugge
    November 8th, 2007 @ 9:30 am

    Hi Richard,

    That looks like it would be a lot of fun to raft! Especially on a warm summer day.

    Ron

  4. Richard
    November 8th, 2007 @ 10:36 am

    And warm it was. I think it was in the 80’s on this day.

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