Whitewater Rafting,
Ropes Course, Zipline & Camping along the American River

Get ready for your Best Day Ever!

A 50 Year legacy on The American River

Safe, Fun and Transformative River Experiences for All... 

Mother Lode is committed to the highest quality American River Rafting. If you are looking for whitewater rafting along the American River, challenge ropes, zipline, camping, natural history or perhaps a custom combination of experiences, Mother Lode has what you need.

Safety: Our first priority for 50+ Years

Over 300,000 People connected to rivers since 1974.

Latest News From The Blog

American River Float
Trouble Maker Rapid
South Fork Rafting

Whitewater Rafting on the American River

You get everything you want in California whitewater rafting with the three forks of the American River. Runs range from Class II wilderness floats to Class IV+ screamers. Whether you’re a novice seeking a gentle introduction to whitewater rafting, or a seasoned adrenaline junkie craving heart-pounding rapids, there’s a stretch of the American River perfectly suited to your skill level and appetite for adventure.

Raft and Ropes
Climbing Sacramento
Zipline Sacramento

Ropes Course & Zipline

Ready to put your mind, body, and spirit to the test? Our Challenge Ropes Course offers an array of low and high elements designed for personal growth and team bonding. We offer programs from a Half-day to Multiple-days in length which can be customized to meet your needs.

Outdoor Education American River
American River Outdoor Education California
American River Camping

Outdoor Education

Need an alternative to cell phones and video games? Our Outdoor Education Programs provide hands-on learning while inspiring a deeper connection and appreciation for the great outdoors.

Great for school field trips and class retreats, our educational modules can be sequenced and combined to meet your needs. 

MOTHER LODE’S COMMITMENT TO RIVERS

California is home to an amazing  diversity of whitewater rivers which are truly world treasures! Protecting this sacred resource and sharing it with you is our passion. 

As we begin our second half century, over 30,000 letters, hand written by our over 300,000 happy participants, have helped protect 15 of California’s most endangered rivers to date. This is the magic of the river experience….

We look forward to seeing you on the river soon!

Scott, Greg and the MaLode Crew 

Very few things in life can beat a day on the river

An experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Introductory Packrafting Clinic at Mother Lode River Center

New Activity

Celebrate our 50th Anniversary with deep discounts on rafting & more!

Special 50th Anniversary Ropes and Rafting Events

Join us on  for a thrilling half-day of high ropes and rafting—no minimum group size required! Celebrate with us and book your adventure now!

Event Dates: June 15th, June 22, July 20th, July 27th, August 10th, August 17th