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Coloma & The Divide

Where the California Gold Rush Began

California Gold Rush history meets unparalleled whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and outdoor adventure, along with wine tasting, farm trails, and mesmerizing vistas.

Trip Picks

Whitewater Rafting

Cascading down from the Sierra Nevada runs the West Coast’s most popular whitewater resource – the South Fork of the American River. An intermediate (Class III) river, the South Fork American River is suitable for kids 7 to 75! An El Dorado County whitewater rafting trip combines the river’s natural beauty, rich historical background, and exciting rapids into one great whitewater vacation experience.  Contact an expert offering half day, full day and two-day trips and an array of river experiences. Whether you prefer fine wines and gourmet meals or brown bags and sleeping under the stars, you are guaranteed, fun, relaxing, and memorable trip.

Marshall Gold State Historic Park

This is where it all began. On January 24, 1848, it was here in Coloma that James Marshall discovered gold, touching off the largest gold rush in history. This singular event changed not only the fate of California but the entire nation. Today, the site is a California State Park, and the Gold Discovery Museum and Sutter’s Mill mark the spot where gold was discovered.

Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Colony

This historic site near Coloma was first settled by Japanese colonists from Aizu Wakamatsu (Fukushima Prefecture) in July 1869. It is the first Japanese colony in North America, and it contains the gravesite of Okei Ito, the first Japanese woman buried on American soil. It’s the birthplace of the first naturalized Japanese-American and is the only settlement established by samurai outside of Japan. 

Explore the Divide

The past and present merge for a delightful adventure in the area between the Middle and South Forks of the American River. Bike, hike, river raft, go horseback riding or stop off at one of our award-winning wineries while driving through the beautiful countryside. Visit towns like Cool, Garden Valley, Georgetown, and Pilot Hill, which boast eclectic restaurants, family-owned farms, and awe-inspiring views.

Your Guide to the Best of Coloma & The Divide