American River
| Stretch: | Nimbus Dam to Watt Avenue |
| Difficulty: | Class II- |
| Distance: | 12 miles |
| Flows: | 800-... cfs. Current Dreamflows gauge |
| Gradient: | 4 fpm |
| Put-in: | Nimbus Dam |
| Take-out: | Watt Ave River Park |
| Shuttle: | 15 miles |
| Season: | Year Round |
| Written: | © 2004 |
I first paddled this stretch when I was seven years old with my brother's Boy Scout Troop.
Little did I know at the time that I would be spending so much time later in my life at the San
Juan Rapid. For years San Juan was known for its playboating, however this year (2006) things
have changed and the Juan is not nearly as good. with that said, I will still write this up.
In past years San Juan was good for play at flows from 1,400-2,200 cfs. However, now it is only
good at 2,200 so I have heard. I was there at 2,000 and it wasnt good at all...
Mi 3:
- San Juan (II+). The only rapid which might prove to be a challenge to newbies, this
rapid can be sneaked on the far left along the shore. For those here to playboat, there
is an eddy behind the center clay bar. The hole/wave is just left of this clay bar.
The hole has great eddy service and for years, dependable flow. This coupled with its location
made it a favorite of many for years. RIP San Juan.
Take out: From 50 take Wall Ave North. turn into the Riverside park just beofre the bridge over the river.
Put in: From 50, take Sunrise North. Follow it and turn right when you see the river access sign (cant remember the name of the street).
San Juan Park and Play: Take Sunrise North from 50. Continue on it, cross the river and turn left on Fair Oaks Road. Continue and take a left on Bannister after a mile or two. Continue and park at the park on the left, the trail is on the far side of the park.