The New “Auburn Run” – Lower North Fork of the American River

Lower North Fork of the American River, Auburn, California, as seen from our hike on the Western States Trail. This photo of the American River was taken during our recent location scouting trip down in the American River Confluence area. Jeff and I had gone down there to see if anyone was rafting or kayaking the recently opened "Auburn Run." Unfortnately for us, the run is still very new and not too many people know about it yet. There were no paddlers in sight! What we didn't know was the run is only open on weekends and holidays. We happened to be there mid-week. We will return on the weekend. But, will it be to photograph, or to paddle? That's the question. Maybe it will have to be both! Jeff and I had the great opportunity to canoe this section a few years ago, before it was open for paddling. We were part of a river clean-up crew, during one of Auburn's annual river clean-up days. After our group plucked a dozen tires, 1 vacuum cleaner and a myriad of other non-usable junk from the river, we were treated to a great paddle down this section of the river, ending up at Folsom Lake (Rattlesnake Bar). Other than capsizing a couple of times due to low water (this was in September), a great time was had. If anyone has paddled the new "Auburn Run," I'd love to hear your opinion of it. Thanks! Have a great weekend!