Discover Coloma: California’s Best River Town

At first glance, Coloma, CA might seem like a sleepy little Gold Country town—if it weren’t for one thing: more than 100,000 people pass through each year just to raft the American River. But there’s a heck of a lot more to do in the area than just rafting.

The town of Lotus sits just across the bridge from Coloma, and together, the two are so closely linked that most visitors don’t even realize when they’ve crossed from one into the other. While Coloma is rich with Gold Rush history, Lotus brings a more laid-back, local vibe with casual eateries, riverfront campgrounds, and a small-but-mighty food and drink scene. Often used interchangeably, Coloma and Lotus together are the epicenter for California whitewater rafting and offer a perfect base for adventure, food, and fun in the Sierra Foothills, just 30 miles from Sacramento.

Experience Coloma’s Other “Rush”

Coloma is where the California Gold Rush got its start back in 1849 after the first flakes of gold were discovered here by James W. Marshall.  Today, visitors can be whisked back into time as they explore the nearby discovery site, pan for gold along the American River, or wander charming historic towns that miners once made home.  

Visit Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Experience the past at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park with walking tours, museum exhibits, gold panning and more. Getting there:  Located in Coloma on Highway 49 between Placerville and Auburn.

Pan for Gold

Take a gold panning lesson with Eureka Experiences and then try your luck where James Marshall discovered gold. Keep what you find! Weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Monday through Friday as space allows. Getting there: Located at Marshall Gold Discovery Park at Bekeart’s Gun Shop across from the museum.

Explore a Historic Mining Town

Wander the cobbled streets of nearby Placerville’s historic district along Main Street, which boasts museums, fine dining, incredible antique shops, art galleries and more. Getting there: From Coloma take Hwy 49 south approximately 8 miles to Main Street.

Hit the Trails

Located just 30-minutes from Auburn, CA, the “Endurance Capital of the World,” you can guarantee that hiking near Coloma is top notch. But you don’t need to be an ultra-athlete to enjoy some of the area’s best hikes. Don’t miss these spots…

Auburn State Recreation Area

There are more than 100 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails located within the Auburn State Recreation Area, which stretches out along 40 miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. For an easy 2.2-mile out and back hike, head to the Black Hole of Calcutta Falls via the Canyon Creek Trail. The relatively flat trail follows along the North Fork of the American River before crossing an old railroad bridge and meandering its way to year-round Calcutta Falls. Don’t expect Yosemite-like gushes of water, but it’s a nice place to relax and cool off before making the return trip back. Getting there: From Coloma, head north on Hwy 49 approximately 15 miles to the confluence area of the North and Middle Fork. As you’re driving, the trailhead (green gate labeled Gate 150) is on the left  before you cross the river. Minimal free parking is available on the road, otherwise use the nearby parking area ($10 fee).

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park

Ranging from challenging oak-lined hills to gentle riverside routes, Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park offers up 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Located on private land, but operated by the Bureau of Land Management, the park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Getting there:  From Coloma, head north on Hwy 49 approximately 6 miles, then take a left on Pedro Hill Rd.

Sweetwater Creek Trail

Located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area just below where the South Fork of the American River meets the waters of Folsom Lake, you can access Sweetwater Creek Trail. This moderate 5.4 out and back hike ascends and descends along the shores of the lake’s southern finger with scenic mountain and river views. There are several other trail options in the area, including the 15.7 mile Darrington (Salmon Falls) Trail, so be sure to have a map.  Getting there: From Coloma, take Hwy 49 north approximately eight miles. Then, turn left on Salmon Falls Rd. which you’ll follow six miles to the Salmon Falls Trailhead Parking Area.

Sip Sierra Foothill Wines (or Beer!)

There are more than 50 El Dorado County wineries just a short drive away from Coloma—several of them just minutes—which makes exploring one of the oldest-producing wine regions in California from here a no-brainer.  Oh, and if wine isn’t your thing, there are plenty of breweries to keep you busy too.  Try these Coloma Valley spots…

David Girard Vineyards

For a unique wine tasting experience, David Girard Vineyards offers fun and informative sit-down tastings of their award-winning Rhone varietals three times per day, Thursday through Monday. Email or call to book an appointment. Or, opt for the guided tour and tasting, which will take you around the scenic estate by ATV before being treated to a private wine and cheese pairing. Getting there: Located at 741 Cold Springs Rd, Placerville, CA.

Hart 2 Hart Vineyards

Hart 2 Hart Vineyards is a boutique winery with shaded picnic grounds, offering a range of varietals for tasting, including Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a variety of blends. Tasting room open Thursday through Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Getting there: Located at 5821 Hwy 49, Pilot Hill, CA.

Gold Hill Vineyard & Brewery

Offering award-winning wines and seasonal beers at their 80-acre property, Gold Hill Vineyard & Brewery is where you go when you need to please the whole crowd. Open Thursday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Getting there: Located at 5660 Vineyard Lane, Placerville, CA.

Where to Stay in Coloma

When you raft the South Fork American River with OARS, there is camping available for rafters the night before and/or after your trip at the American River Outpost for $15 per person/night with the option to upgrade to a pre-set platform tent for added comfort. Alternatively, sleep comfortably in one of the deluxe cabin tents at EarthTrek Campground when you opt for the American River Rafting Super 1-Day experience.

Don’t want to camp?  Live it up at nearby Eden Vale Inn (spa therapy after a day of rafting? Yes, please!). A number of hotel accommodations can also be found in the nearby towns of Auburn and Placerville.

Where to Eat in Coloma

When hunger strikes in Coloma/Lotus, you’ve got some great local options just minutes from the river.

Start your day at Sierra Rizing, a cozy café and bakery known for its strong coffee, homemade breakfast fare, and welcoming patio (just note they’re closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). For a casual, farm-fresh morning bite or lunch, Argonaut Farm to Fork Cafe is another favorite, offering locally-inspired dishes.

Post-adventure, swing by Gorilla Rock Taco for their flavorful street-style tacos and a rotating selection of craft beers. Or, settle in for the evening at Troublemakers Beer Garden, where you can relax with a cold brew, wood-fired pizza, and flavorful pub eats in a laid-back outdoor setting. There’s often live music, too.

Looking for an elevated experience? Head to the Lotus Pub, a hidden gem in the Sierra Foothills where unique, chef-prepared dishes and local brews are served up in a friendly, quaint atmosphere.