Most wine enthusiasts flock to Napa unaware of the award-winning wineries in the Sierra Foothills and closer to popular rafting trips on the American River, Truckee River, and Yuba River. The Gold Country is bursting with organic farms, olive orchards, olive vineyards, and wineries. Small town charm gives visitors an opportunity to converse with owners, wine makers, farmers and the local folk. Include a farm trail hike or a wine tour to make the most out of your California Whitewater adventure (maps & more area information can be obtained by following the links provided).

El Dorado County Wineries & More:

El Dorado County is bursting with things to do, from whitewater rafting on the South Fork American River, to over two dozen vineyards and tasting rooms with beautiful views, and friendly staff. The open ranches of the Apple Hill Growers Association boast 'Pick Your Own Organic Produce', and farm trails.

Many wineries are conveniently located right off of Highway 50 between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. El Dorado county gives visitors the opportunity to combine wine tasting and whitewater rafting while picking your own produce before heading home. Many trip options are available including multi-day Family Specials with camping and meals included.

El Dorado Agricultural Tourism - Information on farmers markets, farm tours, wine associations & more.
El Dorado Winery Association - Learn more about El Dorado county wine making, vintners, & tasting rooms.

Placer County Wineries & More:

Placer County’s beautiful foothills are home to several vineyards, local farms, and exciting whitewater for all rafting levels. The Middle Fork American and North Fork American Rivers provide class 2-4 rafting with many trip options suitable for all levels, from half-day to multi-day overnights available.

Wineries and vineyards, are dispersed along I-80 and Historic Highway 49 from Sacramento to Reno; the Placer County Wine Trail is convenient to rafters, day trippers, or those just passing through. Farm stands are abundant but change seasonally, local farmers markets are held every day of the week and feature produce, meats, crafts, and small town feel.

Placer County Vintners Association - Wineries information and links, print the "Placer County Wine Trail Map", and make a visit to the wineries in Placer County
Placer Grown - Information on farms, in season local produce, farmers markets and more.

Nevada County Wineries & More:

Experience Nevada County’s mountain grown award-winning wines, and whitewater excitement on the North Yuba or Truckee River. Nevada County has a historically rooted pioneer spirit that runs through the main streets of Grass Valley, Nevada City, and Truckee. Check out restaurants, historic B&B’s, art galleries, boutiques and locally owned wineries,especially the tasting rooms for Clavey Wines & Florio Olive Oil in Nevada City.

Northern Sierra Wine Country - Introduction to Nevada County Wineries, links, wine trails and more.
Nevada County Commerce Wineries - Winery tours and wine tasting information.

Combine rafting & wine tasting in Gold Country for the following:

• A romantic stay in a B&B for a couple with fine cuisine and rafting for any level.
• Bachelor/bachelorette parties looking for rafting excitement and unique experiences.

Located 1 hour from Sacramento, 1-2 hours from Lake Tahoe, and within 2 hours of San Francisco and Napa.