Whitewater Rafting in Coloma, CA

Spend the weekend with us in El Dorado County! We checked into a cozy little cottage for the weekend in Coloma, CA, the kind that makes you want to kick off your shoes, pour a glass of wine, and settle in for some serious relaxation. And while the rain tried to play spoiler, it only added to the charm of our riverside retreat!

Riding the Rapids with River Runners

Our adventure kicked off with a full day on the South Fork of the American River, and let me tell you, even though it was raining and gloomy, we still had the BEST time! We went with River Runners, and our guide was fantastic. We made some stops throughout the trip in certain places you could swim, jump off high rocks and watch other rafts take on the rapids. The South Fork is famous for its thrilling rapids, and we hit all the classics: Hospital Bar and Satan’s Cesspool. By the end, we were soaked, smiling from ear to ear, and already talking about our next trip down the river!

Eating Our Way Through Coloma

After checking in on Friday evening, we stopped at Lotus Pub for dinner. This place is a gem, the food was fantastic and the vibe is super chill and laid back. I went for the fish tacos and Jeff had the steak sandwich!

After the river trip on Saturday we wanted to check out Troublemakers Beer Garden, which has the laid-back, friendly vibe, with live music! They had a nice beer selection, wine & kombucha! I paired my pint with one of their wood-fired pizzas and a big pretzel with beer cheese!

We also made it to Argonauts Cafe for breakfast, a hidden gem that perfectly captures the small-town charm of the area. Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this cafe is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re starting your day with a strong cup of coffee or grabbing a quick bite before heading out on an adventure, Argonauts Cafe is a must.

Sierra Rizing Cafe was another highlight, tucked away with that small-town charm that makes you feel like a local. Their pastries were divine, and I may or may not have taken a few for the road.

A Rainy Day at David Girard Winery

On our way out of town we decided to head to David Girard Winery for some wine tasting. Sipping on a glass of their Rhône varietals on the beautiful patio was pure magic. The views from the winery are stunning.

Wrapping It Up

Coloma may be a small town, but it’s packed with adventure, good food, and plenty of reasons to return. From the thrill of the rapids to the cozy comfort of a rainy day by the fire, this weekend was exactly what I needed—a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. And as we packed up to head home, I couldn’t help but think, “When’s the next trip?” Because something tells me, Coloma has plenty more stories to tell.