East Fork Carson River: Hangman's Run

Duration

Full Day
Difficulty

Beginner
Class

II
Price

$130 Adults, $120 Kids 6-12
Ages

6+
Available

April - June
Length

21 River Miles

Highlights:

Don’t miss this run during this 2023 High Water Year!
Natural Geothermal Hot Springs and High Desert Landscape
Historic Wild West history
No experience necessary
Everyone paddles
True wilderness experience
Perfect for beginners and families

0 Minutes

From South Lake Tahoe

0 Hour

From Reno

0 Hours

From the Bay Area

On this page:

About the Trip Full Day Class 2 Excitement + HOT SPRINGS

For those who feel no guilt in relaxing and indulging all their senses, a true wilderness experience awaits on the East Fork of the Carson River. Being 1 of 3 naturally flowing rivers in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, this 21 mile section of class II whitewater truly captures the experience of floating down a wild river. In 1988 the East Fork Carson River was added to the California Wild & Scenic River System due to its remarkable surroundings. Situated close to South Lake Tahoe, this river makes for the perfect full day trip on you vacation. Starting in the stunningly beautiful Alpine County, the trip begins in pine forests as spectacular snow capped peaks encompass your surroundings. This river is swift and exciting as it flows continuously through the first 9 miles opening into the Nevada High Dessert. Natural geothermal hot springs greet you halfway down inviting you to sink into yet a deeper level of bliss as your guides prepare a delectable lunch. Once back in the boats the river slows down, meandering through a changing landscape of enchanting dessert scenery. Stretches of quiet floats encourage you to breathe in the fresh air and soak in the sun. A trip down the East Fork of the Carson River will sure to give everyone in your group a memorable experience. Its tranquil beauty, fun rapids, and hot springs are perfect for first time rafters and veterans alike. Join us on this exquisite escape into nature’s wonderland.

Trip Itinerary

After booking, check your confirmation email which has comprehensive trip information.

We will see you at 10068 Hirschdale Rd, Truckee, CA 96161 at 8:45.
Park, check in, fill out any outstanding waivers, use the restroom, etc. Leave valuables at home and and personal items in your vehicles. Car keys can be left with our office staff or in your seat on our shuttle bus while you’re on the river.
Hop on our Tahoe Whitewater Shuttle Bus for a 2 minute drive to the river.
Gear Up & Safety Talk! You’ll be issued a Personal Flotation Device, Paddle, and Helmet (and wetsuits, splash jackets, and fleece during spring). Everyone will participate in our Safety Talk to discuss river hazards and safety protocols.
Meet your guide! Your guide will chat about paddling and give instructions as you hop in your raft and start the tour.
Enjoy the river! You'll be on the river all day. We provide a gourmet lunch.
We'll shuttle you back to our office (30 minute drive).

Who Should Go on this Trip?

Everyone! We welcome ages 6+ and all abilities.

This trip is great for families, friends, big groups, and all adventure levels.

Everyone is expected to paddle and should be in good physical shape (250 lb weight limit).

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim?

It is recommended but not mandatory. We provide a helmet and a Type V, US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, designed to float you on your back, high in the water.

What do I need to wear?

We have packing lists for you to review for each of our different trips. It can be significantly colder during March-May so we encourage our guests to always be prepared.

It’s my first time rafting, do I need experience?

We encourage previous experience for our more difficult, Class IV Whitewater Rafting Trips. Feel free to call us with any concerns or questions about appropriate trips for your group.

» Read all Rafting FAQ

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Trip Availability

EVERY DAY

April - June

What do you provide?

Helmet, Paddle, Personal Flotation Device (aka PFD or lifejacket)
If needed: splash jackets, wetsuits, fleece
Professional River Guide in each raft
Gourmet Riverside Lunch
Shuttle to and from our office/parking area

Why Tahoe Whitewater?

Our guides are the best in the business, prioritizing safety and guest experience. They love what they do and it shows through their passion for the area's history, geology and ecology. With experience on rivers around the globe, we know you'll enjoy your guide as much as we do.

Tahoe Whitewater's owner, Mike Miltner, pioneered commercial whitewater rafting on the Truckee River in the 1980's and 90's when government ordinances prohibited whitewater rafting on the Truckee. Mike fell in love with the Truckee River and began battling local, state, and federal opposition. Successful in his mission to share the Truckee, Mike paved the way for people to experience the beauty and adventure the Truckee River has to offer. And over 30 years now, Tahoe Whitewater has been sharing our love, experience, and knowledge of the area with guests.

Raft Size

7-9 passengers per boat plus a river guide. No matter your group size, we'll break you up into the appropriate number of rafts.

Sit back and relax while our guides prepare yummy meals!

Maps

Meeting Location

101 Old Pony Express Rd, Woodfords Ca 96120 at 9:45am

What to Expect From Booking to Rafting the East Fork Carson Hangman's Run

After Making a Reservation

After your booking is complete, a confirmation email will be sent including a summary of your group size, date, river section, meeting time and location.

Online Waivers will be provided in your confirmation email. ALL participants must fill out waivers prior to the trip. Please fill these out before arriving.

A “Trip Details” PDF will be attached to your confirmation email containing:

driving directions
pack list
itinerary
other helpful info

On the River

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