North Fork Stanislaus River

The North Fork Stanislaus River provides outstanding opportunities for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. Boaters may paddle a five-mile, Class IV stretch of the river between Sourgrass, near Dorrington, and Calaveras Big Trees State Park, just east of Arnold. The run offers an exciting adventure through a spectacularly beautiful, heavily timbered, isolated canyon, with abundant wildlife and numerous Native American and Gold Rush era artifacts. Rafting trips may be taken with one of three commercial outfitters currently licensed to run this river (highly recommended, due to the demanding and technical nature of the river) or, you may organize a private trip. Whichever way you go, please be sure to "Leave No Trace" of your visit to the North Fork, so that future users will find it as beautiful and pristine as you did.