Rafting FAQ > Whitewater Rafting Trips near Santa Cruz, CA

If the splendid ocean views and beauty of the Santa Cruz area whets your appetite for adventure, head inland just a few hours, where some of California’s best whitewater rivers await.

• The three forks of the American River offer a rafting trip for everyone. The South Fork is great for families while the Middle Fork and North Fork challenge adventurous first-timers and experienced rafters
• Intermediate trips are available on the Merced River. Class IV rapids and rolling wave trains create nature’s roller coaster east of Santa Cruz.
• Wind your way through Calaveras Big Trees State Park on the Class IV+ rapids of the North Fork Stanislaus and marvel at the Giant Sequoia Redwoods.
• East of Santa Cruz, the Tuolumne River canyon offers two options. The Main Tuolumne River is a beautiful Class IV river. One, two and Three day trips available. The Upper Tuolumne / Cherry Creek, is the ultimate in Class V whitewater.

See a map showing all 10 of our California Rivers with more information about each.