American River Confluence
Auburn, California
| GPS: |
38°54'52.6"N 121°2'8.2"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | California |
Waterfalls Rocks State Park
Hike, Horseback, Kayak, Rock Climb, Swim, and Whitewater
The Confluence — where the North and Middle Forks of the American River meet, just below the soaring Foresthill Bridge (the highest bridge in California) — is the beating heart of the Auburn State Recreation Area and one of the Sierra foothills' most beloved places to cool off. Clear green-blue water, sun-warmed rocks, and sandy pocket beaches make it a summer magnet for swimmers, rafters, and sunbathers just minutes from downtown Auburn.
This is a true recreation hub. Swimmers wade and paddle the calmer pools along the bank; whitewater rafters and kayakers use the Confluence as a classic put-in and take-out for runs on both forks; and hikers and runners fan out on the surrounding trails, including the historic No Hands Bridge and the Western States Trail. Gold-rush history runs deep here — this stretch was heavily mined in the 1800s.
The area is managed by California State Parks; a per-vehicle day-use fee applies at the staffed lots (bring cash), and it gets busy and hot on summer weekends, so arrive early. Watch the current, which can run swift and cold during spring snowmelt, and keep a close eye on kids near the moving water.
Bring water shoes, sun protection, and plenty of drinking water, and pack out everything you bring to help protect this heavily loved river.
More Information
North Fork Falls Waterfall And Swimming Hole At Emigrant Gap
Short hike from the North Fork Campground to the North Fork Falls two-tier waterfall and swimming hole at Emigrant Gap in the Lake Tahoe National Forest
https://inspiredimperfection.com/adventures/north-fork-falls-swimming-hole-emigrant-gap/Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Auburn, California
- Head southwest on Market St (486 ft)
- Turn right onto Franklin StPass by Walgreens (on the left in 0.9 mi)(2.0 mi)
- Turn right onto Francisco St (0.2 mi)
- Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto Polk St (0.2 mi)
- Turn right onto Beach St (118 ft)
From Sacramento, take I-80 east to Exit 119 at Auburn. Take RT 49 south, then:
Courtesy of swimmingholes.org
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