OUR POPULAR RAFTING TOURS
Introducing Our River Family To Yours
30+ Years of Guided Adventures
The rush of clear mountain water beneath your raft, sunlight dancing across ripples ahead, and the shared laughter of your crew create memories that linger long after you’ve dried off. We’ve guided adventurers down five distinct rivers across Lake Tahoe and Central California since 1994, welcoming guests to experience the region’s premier waterways every year.
Our Credentials & Commitment
All Skill Levels Welcome: Class II-III for beginners to Class IV+ for experts- Family Legacy: Family-owned since 1994
- Recognition: “Best Outdoor Activity in Tahoe” by Tahoe Magazine (2022, 2023)
- Community Focus: A portion of profits funds local youth outdoor programs
WHAT RIVER IS BEST FOR ME?
Match Your Skill Level & Time Commitment
Your ideal rafting experience depends on several factors: adventure appetite, time availability, and previous paddling experience. First-timers typically thrive on the Truckee River half-day excursions. At the same time, those seeking a full-day introduction often choose the South Fork American River with its balanced mix of excitement and approachability.
Personalized Recommendations
- For Beginners: Truckee River (half-day) or South Fork American (full-day)
- For Thrill-seekers: North Fork American (Class IV+) or Middle Fork (multi-day)
- For Families: Truckee River or Carson River (kids 7+ welcome)
- For Limited Schedules: 3.5-hour Truckee River experience
- For Accessibility Needs: South Fork American has ADA-friendly launch points
- For Seasonal Adventures: Carson River (spring snowmelt) vs. Truckee (summer flows)
Explore Our Rivers: Locations & Features
Truckee River (Boca to Floriston)
- Classification: Class II-III | 8 miles | 3.5 hours
- Location: 15 minutes from Lake Tahoe’s north shore
- Highlights: Historic Floriston town site, Bronze Cliffs photo opportunities
- Perfect For: First-timers (45% of riders) and family groups
- Features: Consistent water flow throughout the summer season
South Fork American River (Coloma Run)
- Classification: Class III | 12 miles | 6 hours
- Location: 1.5 hours from Sacramento
- Highlights: Sutter’s Mill Gold Rush historical site
- Water Conditions: Summer flows averaging 1,200–1,800 CFS (optimal for rafting)
- Features: Multiple wave trains and approachable rapids for intermediates
Carson River (East Fork)
- Classification: Class II-III | 7 miles | 4 hours
- Seasonality: Spring season only (April–June); snowmelt-driven rapids
- Location: Near Kirkwood Mountain Resort
- Post-Trip: Dining options in historic Markleeville
- Features: Less crowded than other regional rivers
Middle Fork American (Multi-Day)
- Classification: Class III-IV | 2–3 days | Overnight camping
- Includes: Equipment, meals, and professional guides
- Highlights: Riverside camping in secluded wilderness areas
- Features: Progressive difficulty builds throughout the journey
Who Rafts With Us? Demographics & Groups
Your fellow adventurers represent diverse ages, backgrounds, and reasons for hitting the water. Understanding who typically joins our trips helps you select the right experience for your group.
Our Rafting Community
- Families: 60% of guests; kids aged 7+ welcome on Truckee/Carson Rivers
- Corporate Teams: 25% of summer bookings for team-building (10+ participants)
- Adventure Enthusiasts: 15% seeking Class IV+ challenges (ages 18–45)
- Geographic Mix: 50% out-of-state visitors; 30% from the Bay Area/Sacramento
- Special Events: 100+ bachelor/bachelorette parties annually (June–August)
History and Experience
Leaders in Safety & Fun Since 1994
Your safety forms the foundation of every trip we guide. Our team includes trained guides averaging nearly a decade of professional experience, each equipped with wilderness first aid certification and intimate knowledge of local river systems. This commitment shows in our spotless safety record: zero major incidents across three decades of operation.
Our River Heritage & Commitments
- Guide Experience: Trained guides; average nearly 10 years of experience per guide
- Safety Record: Zero major incidents in 30 years; Coast Guard-certified equipment
- Environmental Stewardship: Partners with American Rivers for conservation
- Additional Offerings: Wilderness first aid courses for advanced adventurers
- Community Impact: Portion of profits funds local youth outdoor programs
Seasonal Adventures & Best Times to Raft
Water levels, weather conditions, and crowds vary significantly throughout our rafting season. Planning your trip during the optimal time ensures the experience matches your expectations.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (April–June)
- Carson River snowmelt creates optimal conditions
- Class III+ rapids at their most powerful
- Fewer crowds; more wilderness feeling
- Cooler temperatures; wetsuits provided
Summer (July–September)
- Family-friendly Truckee/South Fork trips
- Warmer water and air temperatures
- Consistent, reliable flows on dam-controlled rivers
- Peak Demand: Weekends in July–August sell out 4–6 weeks in advance
Fall (October)
- Middle Fork multi-day tours showcase foliage
- Peaceful river conditions with fewer boats
- Crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons
- Wildlife viewing opportunities increase
Off-Season Programs
- Limited winter training programs are available
- Guide preparation courses for next season
EXPERIENCE THE RUSH OF CALIFORNIA'S PREMIER RIVERS
Our expert guides are ready to lead you through Lake Tahoe and Central California’s most thrilling whitewater rapids. Whether you’re seeking family fun or adrenaline-pumping challenges, contact us today to book your perfect river tour.