The Rivers
Main Tuolumne - Meral's Pool to Ward's Ferry
Tumbling though the Sierra from its headwaters in Yosemite National Park, the Tuolumne River has long been revered as California's premier river. And for good reason: "The T" is a gem. Its steep gradient makes for superb long rapids such as Nemesis, The Squeeze, Gray's Grindstone and the notorious Clavey Falls (with optional footpath). Its roadless isolation and limit of two guided trips per day ensure a primitive wilderness experience. Exquisite side canyons cradle clear pools for swimming; short hikes reveal Gold Rush and Miwok Indian history and abundant wildlife. Camping along the Tuolumne's fine sandy beaches provides an exceptional opportunity to refresh your spirit. This is a classic.
Cherry Creek/Upper Tuolumne - Cherry Powerhouse to Meral's Pool
No doubt about it: this is the ultimate!
A training seminar and Class V paddler's test are required for this thrill ride and included at the beginning of the trip. With a phenomenally steep gradient averaging 110 feet per mile, the Cherry Creek/Upper Tuolumne run is the most challenging run in the U.S. and the standard by which Class V runs are measured.
This intense and demanding stretch of river in the Stanislaus National Forest comprises long, nearly continuous rapids and only short pools. Among “The Creek’s” unparalleled array of chutes, holes, ledges and falls, amidst gigantic boulders are Jawbone, Mushroom, Miracle Mile, Lewis’ Leap and Flat Rock Falls.
First Cherry Creek Run, 1972 Above Lewis' Leap, Lumsden Bridge
Marty McDonnell, Walt Harvest, Mark DuBois, Fred Dennis
Cataraft designed by Marty McDonnell
Feather River, Middle Fork - Nelson Point to Milsap Bar
Awarded 25 Best New Trips 2009 by the editors of National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine!
A training seminar and Class V paddler's test are required for this adventure and included at the beginning of the trip.
One of the original 8 rivers in the United States to achieve Wild and Scenic River status in 1968, the Middle Fork of the Feather River in the Plumas National Forest is a seldom-seen treasure of pristine wilderness and fabulous whitewater.
This run is for experienced paddlers only. If you have rafted Cherry Creek and are seeking the next level of challenge, this trip is for you. Only serious paddlers who are in excellent physical condition, solid team players, and willing to help with difficult portages should apply!
Three distinct and thrilling canyons await the intrepid wilderness traveler. The trip begins with an exciting descent through a volcanic maze lined with cedar forests. Numerous five and six foot drops provide an enjoyable warm-up for the more challenging whitewater downstream. At the entrance to Franklin Canyon, the river passes under the Pacific Crest Trail and narrows into a sliver of shining silver with a gradient of over 100 feet per mile. Rapids gradually become more technical as the river carves through the metamorphic bedrock. Devil’s Canyon, the last and final gorge, slices through a 1000’ vertical wall of granite resplendent with classic Class V rapids. The action is intense, with boulder-choked drops similar to Cherry Creek’s more challenging rapids like Miracle Mile and Blind Faith. Recovery pools are thankfully numerous and well located.
The Middle Fork Feather River is one the last true rugged wilderness adventures, offering superb whitewater and exceptional camping in a remote part of northern California. Sierra Mac River Trips is the only permitted company to operate trips here.
Sierra Mac River Rafting Trips