South Fork American River

The South Fork of the American River is located in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains, about an hour and a half east of Sacramento. It originates near Echo Lake, a little south of Lake Tahoe, and then travels 87 miles through Gold Country to flow into the Sacramento River.

Famous for its historical relevance and recreational activities, the South Fork of the American has attracted visitors, thrill-seekers, and treasure-hunters for more than a century. The area is famous as the location where gold was first discovered in California, which sparked one of the largest mass migrations of humans known today. Today, the Coloma Valley remains famous as an excellent destination for a variety of popular activities, ranging from wine tasting to whitewater rafting.