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  • Advanced Whitewater

Middle Fork American River: Tunnel Chute

Quick Details

Adult

Ages 13+

$ 150

Blast Through the Middle Fork’s Legendary Tunnel Chute on this Rafting Trip!

River: Middle Fork of the American River
Section: Tunnel Chute Run
Duration: Full Day Experience
Arrival Times: 8:30 AM
Meals: Yes, We provide everyone with a riverside sandwich buffet-style lunch
Whitewater Class: Class IV+ (Intermediate/Advanced)
Raft Sizes: 14′ rafts for 6 guests + guide
Guided Tours: Professional River Guide in each raft giving instructions throughout the journey
Accessibility: Easily accessed from North Lake Tahoe, Auburn, Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area

Trip Highlights:

  • Run the World Famous Tunnel Chute Rapid, Featured in multiple Hollywood movies
  • Perfect Intermediate/Advanced whitewater adventure
  • Exhilarating Legendary Rapids
  • Historical Gold Mining Country
  • Centrally located in California (2 hours from the Bay Area)
  • A True Wilderness Experience

Where We Meet:

  • Rear Parking lot of Raley’s Grocery Store: 13384 Lincoln Way Auburn, CA 94603 (8:30 AM)
  • Located just off interstate 80 at the Forrest Hill Exit
  • Secure parking, a large shopping complex with restrooms, and a store for last-minute items

About The Trip:

  • Easily accessed from North Lake Tahoe, Auburn, Sacramento, San Francisco and the Bay Area, rafting the Middle Fork of the American River is a true classic in the whitewater world.
  • This Full Day Class IV+ experience will be remembered by all that attend due to its steep wilderness canyon walls and world famous whitewater rapids. If looking for an epic trip, look no further.
  • The River Starts Fast with whitewater straight from the get-go. Rapids like “Good Morning”, “Trash Can” and “Santas Mustache” to warm you up for one of the biggest rapids of the day within the first Mile and a half!
  • During the middle of the trip, the water calms down and allows time to relax, finding a wonderful beach to stop on for a lunch outing.
  • Rapids pick up again during the last few miles with steep technical boat maneuvering required. A portage exists as the river cascades over the Class VI Ruckachucky Falls, which is easily walked around by guests.
  • Tahoe Whitewater River guides are committed to showing our guests the wildest ride available on the Middle Fork of the American River. So be ready to get wet! These High Adventure Trips require a team effort; guests will be expected to exert high physical energy. If you are afraid to get wet, this is not the adventure for you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

    • Swimming Skills: Recommended but not mandatory; Type V, US Coast Guard-approved flotation devices provided
    • What to Wear: Packing lists are available for different trip types; be prepared for changing weather
    • Previous experience highly recommended for Class IV Adventures

What To Expect:

After Making a Reservation:
      • Confirmation email with tour details
      • Online waivers available to sign and share with other group members
Day of the Tour:
      • Check-in at Raley’s Shopping complex, gear up, drive to the river, orientation, launch into the Middle Fork’s Tunnel Chute Run
      • Scenic 17-mile wilderness run with advanced whitewater
      • Rapids, including the legendary Class IV+ “Tunnel Chute”
      • Opportunities for swimming, games, gourmet lunch, and sunbathing
      • Exciting finish with steep drops and technical boat maneuvering
What to Expect on the Middle Fork of the American River Tunnel Chute Run:
      • Intermediate/ Advanced Class IV+ trip with legendary rapids.
      • Thrilling technical rapids, swimming areas, delicious lunch, Exciting steep finish.
      • Class IV+ Rapids such as “Tunnel Chute”, “Kanaka”, “Chunder”, “Parallel Parking”, “Texas Chainsaw Mama,” and more.
      • Action Photography in the Biggest Rapids.
Availability:
      • Everyday midweek (Monday through Friday) and some weekend dates from May 1st to mid-September (subject to river flow)

Why Choose Tahoe Whitewater Tours?

      • Experienced river guides prioritizing safety and guest service
      • Availability throughout the summer for your convenience
      • Unforgettable adventures filled with excitement
      • Focus on creating memories that last a lifetime, ensuring every trip is unforgettable

Embark on a Thrilling Whitewater Odyssey!

Calling all adventure seekers! Embark on our thrilling guided whitewater rafting tour on the Middle Fork American River, promising an unforgettable advanced river rafting experience through deep California canyons. Prepare for an exhilarating 17-mile journey through some of the state’s best-advanced whitewater.

The adrenaline-pumping adventure begins immediately with the rapid “Good Morning,” setting the tone for an electrifying day on the water. Navigate through breathtaking wilderness, where the river bed showcases stunning white quartz veins cutting through grey granite and dark limestone. Within the first mile and a half, brace yourself for the iconic Class IV+ rapid, ”Tunnel Chute,” a man-made marvel crafted by gold miners in 1889. Immerse yourself in the whitewater rush, making this advanced run truly unforgettable.

Midway through the trip, enjoy moments of relaxation and leisure on picturesque beaches, perfect for swimming, games, and a gourmet lunch. Explore lush creeks and side canyons on a side hike if time permits, transforming your surroundings into a cool, lush Eden. The journey concludes with high-adventure rapids, featuring steep drops and technical boat maneuvering for an exciting finish.

Tailored for those craving more action, this high-adventure guided whitewater tour is ideal for guests seeking an adrenaline-packed journey. Please note, due to the nature of the trip, participants must be 13 years old and strong swimmers. Don’t miss out on this classic California whitewater adventure – an experience that promises lasting memories and heart-pounding excitement! Book your guided whitewater rafting tour on the Middle Fork American River now!