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

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.