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At the foothills of the Sierra Nevada lies the historical South Fork of the American River. It was here John Marshall discovered gold in 1848 which set in motion the California Gold Rush. Today, panning for gold is just one of a mother lode of activities the South Fork offers for nature and outdoor adventures. Other year round activities include hiking, fishing, and the two renowned sports of the area, kayaking and white water rafting.

White water rafting the South Fork is rafting the most popular run in the western United States. Respected rapids like Class III Triple Threat and Meatgrinder intiate the run down the cascading waters. The middle part takes a break from the action with milder class II rapids before hitting the "gorge" and a finale of class III rapids like Satan's Cesspool.

Kayaking is the other boasted sport here and a good introduction to white water. Kayaking the South Fork is an opportunity for a vigorous workout while savoring the scenic mountains, wildlife, and vegetation from the river's edge.

Hiking and biking enthusiasts can enjoy the river's edge by trailing the area. Hennigsen Park is a .42 mile loop, and the Dave Moore Nature Area is about a one mile trail featuring a river beach. Paved back roads and hilltop hikes are also accessible and some trails welcome equestrians.

Fishing the South Fork is angler friendly. The most abundant fish in this part of the American River are rainbow and brown trout. Also, Kokanee salmon can swim upstream from Folsom as far north as the lower part of the South Fork.

Rafting, kayaking, hiking, and fishing can keep anyone busy. But, it wouldn't seem right to leave the South Fork without first panning for gold and becoming a part of history. Panning is free, and at the Coloma Museum, they feature a short movie on "how to pan for gold." The movie offers tips for panning and information on regulations. Pans for panning are abundantly sold here. They cost about $4.00 each and make a great keepsake for recalling the treasured memories you'll take with you.

The South Fork is located between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe, centered between highways US 50 and Interstate 80. There are plenty of options for overnight accommodations. Placerville, Auburn, Pollock Pines, and South Lake Tahoe list hundreds of available vacation rentals of all styles and prices. From rustic, charming "Old West" condos to spacious, luxury homes, it can be found within driving distance of the South Fork.

Sources:
Web: The Coloma Valley: http://www.coloma.com/gold/
Tributary Whitewater Tours: http://www.whitewatertours.com /rivers.htm#SFAmerican

Learn more about this author, Dori Beldi.
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