North Fork of the American River carves through steep sided canyon walls as it winds downstream from Colfax to Lake Clementine away from any roads or civilization. With the remote setting, it is wise to be prepared on this paddle trip. Be cautious of poison oak and rattlesnakes lurking in the under brush along the banks of the river. This river is fueled by snowmelt from the Sierra's. When there's a good snowpack the river flows nicely from Memorial Day to mid July.