The North Fork Yuba River offers both veterans and active first-timers, a variety of Class 3 - Class 5 whitewater thrills, from 1 - 4 days, on over 35 miles of river. Even at lower flows, the North Fork Yuba River still offers exciting rafting in smaller boats. The river runs through the heavily forested Tahoe National Forest, fed by the snow-melt from the majestic 8000+ peaks of the Sierra Buttes. It is located at the north end of the fabled Mother Lode highway (Hwy 49) and nearby are the rustic and charming gold mining towns of Downieville and Sierra City. There is a good selection of restaurants, interesting shops, cozy motels & saloons, historic landmarks and plentiful camping. Despite its proximity to the Bay Area, this river is an un-crowded gem, with just 3 permitted outfitters. Tributary is one of the original companies who pioneered this river for commercial rafting in 1981.
Haypress Creek to Union Flat (Wild Plum Run): Class 5, 8 miles Elevation 4240 - 3350, Gradient 110 feet per mile This section offers high mountain scenery and passes through the small and quaint town of Sierra City. It provides plenty of Class 5 action with the most note-worthy section being Ladies Canyon. A more technically difficult run than the Class 5 section below, so previous Class 5 paddling experience is required. Its season is shorter than the downstream sections as side creeks and the Downie River add to the flows considerably from Downieville
Union Flat to Goodyear’s Bar (Moss Canyon/Rossasco Ravine): Class 5, 10 miles Elevation 3350 - 2640, Gradient 72 - 80 feet per mile Nearly continuous Class 4-5 rapids in the first 8 miles, with 3 large Class 5 drops in Moss Canyon above Downieville and another series in Rossasco Ravine just below Downieville. The last couple of miles before the take-out at Goodyear’s Bar provide a welcome break from the tough action preceding them. Previous Class 4 paddling experience required with good swimming ability.
Goodyear’s Bar to Indian Valley (Maytag Run): Class 4, 9 miles Elevation 2640 - 2320 With an introductory 2 miles of Class 2-3 rapids, this section provides an ideal step-up for the Class 3 paddler or a first-time Class 4 run for the active and adventurous. After braving some Class 4 rapids, most paddlers are then ready for the highlight of the trip - the Class 5 'Maytag'. We always stop and scout the rapid, so all clients have the option of walking around. The Class 4 Son of Maytag falls is just below Maytag, with more Class 3 action from here to the take-out.
Indian Valley to Bullards Bar (Wilderness Run): Class 4, 8 miles Elevation 2320 This section provides exceptional Class 4 action through a beautiful wilderness section of river. Due to the lack of access that requires a motor tow across the length of Bullards Bar Reservoir, or an interesting 4x4 take-out on a little used road, this section is seen by few boaters and is not detailed in any guide books. Usually run on a 2 day Class 4 trip, with the 'Maytag' stretch. It is well worth taking the time for a great combination of whitewater and wilderness.
Trip Details
Duration
1-4 Days
Location
North Fork of Yuba River
Season
April to Mid-July
Trip Type
Paddle & Oar
Nearest City
1 Hr. N. of Nevada City/2 Hrs. NE of Sacramento
Physical Condition Required
Good
Destination(s)
California, United States
Rated Classes
III-V
Guest Capacity
36+
Minimum Age Limit
12-16
Distance Traveled
8-10 Miles in 1 Day, 18-36 Miles in 2-4 Days
Inflatable Kayaks
NO
Hard Shell Kayaks
NO
Additional Activities
Great mountain bike and hiking trails nearby.
Dining
Lunch is provided on 1 day trips, and 4 meals on 2 day trips.
Rates
$128.00 - $418.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
Additional Rate Info
Prices vary with duration, difficulty and day of week.
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