More than 100,000 people pass through to raft. Here's everything else.

Whitewater rafting

The famous Coloma-to-Lotus run is Class II–III — perfect for first-timers and families, with bigger rapids like Troublemaker and Chili Bar upstream. Guided half- and full-day trips with OARS, All-Outdoors, American Whitewater, and WET River Trips, all minutes away.

Tubing & swimming

In summer the water mellows into lazy floats and swimming holes. Henningsen Lotus Park has a beach, boat launch, and shady picnic spots a few minutes downriver.

Fishing & kayaking

Trout fishing picks up as flows drop after the spring melt (CA license required). Kayak and paddleboard rentals and instruction at The River Store in Lotus, 35+ years on the water.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Just across the bridge — the spot where James Marshall found gold in 1848 and set off the Gold Rush. Tour the replica of Sutter's Mill, the museum, and dozens of historic buildings. 70% of Coloma sits inside the park.

Pan for gold

Try the real thing in the river where it started. Guided 45-minute gold-panning lessons run about $8 per person; pans available to buy. Second-Saturday Living History days bring the 1850s back to life.

Placerville & Apple Hill

About 15 minutes south: historic Main Street with antiques, galleries, and dining. In fall, nearby Apple Hill's orchards, bakeries, and cider draw crowds for a reason.

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails — 12 miles of rolling, oak-lined trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the river.

South Fork American River Trail — 11 miles of riverside path right through the valley.

Bassi Falls — an easy 2-mile round trip to a waterfall, great for families.

Auburn State Recreation Area — 100+ miles of trails along the North and Middle Forks, ~30 min north.

Sierra Rizing — strong coffee, homemade breakfast, sunny patio (closed Tue/Wed).

Argonaut Farm to Fork Café — pastries, handmade bagels, fresh lemonade in a historic building.

Gorilla Rock Tacos — tacos and 48 craft beers on the patio.

River Shack Deli & Pub — sandwiches and cold beer after a day on the water.

Troublemakers — riverside bar & grill with live music and a lively patio, right by the rafting takeout.

Camp Lotus Deli — coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and s'more fixings down the road.