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 over 10,000 guests annually to experience the region’s premier waterways.
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, while 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)
I’M A THRILL SEEKER LOOKING FOR AN ADRENALINE FILLED DAY
For those who are looking for high adrenaline, extreme fun, and for an adventure like no other, consider checking out some of the best whitewater stretches in California. These trips are filled with heart pumping whitewater that will be sure to leave you satisfied!!!
I’M LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
For those who are looking for a adventure that the entire family will enjoy, or if there are members of your group that have not yet been rafting before consider going on one of our class II and III stretches. These trips are a great introduction to running rivers and have something for everyone to enjoy.
I’M LOOKING FOR A SCENIC TRIP WITH MILD RAPIDS.HOT SPRINGS!
Many enjoy rivers in different ways, and for those who would like to experience some of the best scenery in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. What better way to do it than to travel down a naturally flowing river.
Come experience natural geothermal Hot Springs!
I’M LOOKING FOR A SHORTER DAY TRIP
For those visiting the Tahoe Area and only have a limited time to explore, consider choosing one of our shorter day trips. We know Tahoe has many exciting activities and it can be tough to fit them all in during a vacation. Luckily we have just the right trips available for those who can’t dedicate a full day.
I’M LOOKING FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD ON THE WATER (MULTI-DAY) HOT SPRINGS!
If you ask any one of us here at Tahoe Whitewater Tours what we believe to be the best way to experience a river, we would all say an overnight camping trip. To be able to fully experience a river is to see it during the day, to spend a sunset on its banks, and to sleep under a star filled sky. Engulf the senses through an overnight camping trip on one of our beautiful rivers!
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
North Fork American (Class IV+ Advanced)
- Classification: Class IV+ | 9 miles | 8 hours
- Requirements: Expert-only; requires 2+ prior rafting experiences
- Highlights: Technical Ponderosa Falls and challenging 12-foot drops
- Best Season: Spring high water (April-June)
- Features: Remote canyon sections with limited access points
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 building 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 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 200+ trained guides averaging 8 years 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: 200+ trained guides; average 8 years 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 rapids. Whether you’re seeking family fun or adrenaline-pumping challenges, contact us today to book your perfect river tour.