Memorial Day weekend is a time for both reflection and celebration. It’s a chance to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice—and to embrace the freedom they protected by enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. If you’re wondering how to combine meaningful moments with unforgettable adventure, look no further than a whitewater rafting trip on the American River.
Whether you’re in California, Oregon, Nevada, or Idaho, there are Memorial Day events and activities that hit every note.
Memorial Day Events Across the Region
Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip, staying local, or looking for a riverside escape, the western U.S. delivers a full slate of events and experiences to mark this meaningful weekend.
California
From Los Angeles to the Sierras, California is packed with activities.
- Major city tributes: Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco host parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and military honor events that draw thousands each year.
- Outdoor escapes: Want to keep the vibe adventurous? Head to the American River near Sacramento for rafting that ranges from scenic family floats to splashy Class III thrills.
- Gold Country & Lake Tahoe: These regions serve up historic town charm and wilderness in equal measure. Start your day with a historic walking tour, then hit the river for a cold, refreshing ride.
Oregon
Oregon blends natural beauty with quiet reverence.
- Portland & Salem: Both cities offer veteran’s memorial events, cemetery services, and patriotic concerts. It’s a meaningful way to start the day before heading out for a scenic drive or hike.
- Waterfall wonders: Spend the afternoon chasing waterfalls or rafting the Deschutes River. Or opt for something longer with a wilderness weekend on the Owyhee River.
Nevada & Idaho
Looking for wide-open landscapes, hot springs, and fewer crowds? These two states bring the magic.
- Reno & Carson City: Expect small-town parades, flyovers, and community cookouts honoring fallen heroes.
- Boise & the Snake River corridor: Idaho goes big on whitewater rafting this time of year. Hit up a Snake River trip through Hells Canyon for jaw-dropping scenery and wildlife sightings along with the thrill of the rapids.
Combining Reflection with a Thrill Ride
Let’s face it—Memorial Day weekend is one of the best times of year to be on the river. The snowmelt-fed flows are at their peak, the sun is shining, and the mountains are alive with color.
- Rafting near Tahoe Reno gives you a front-row seat to Sierra Nevada views while delivering exciting, guide-led rapids perfect for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike.
- Want to add a different kind of thrill? Try the Ropes Course + Rafting 2-Day Adventure—where you’ll challenge your balance, courage, and teamwork both in the trees and on the river.
Planning Your Memorial Day Weekend
Whether you’re rolling deep with your crew or treating Dad to an early Father’s Day adventure, we’ve got the perfect fit for your group:
Family Getaways
Our Family Rafting Specials are designed to include everyon. We offer calmer water sections, expert guides, and plenty of stops for snacks, swimming, and epic river selfies.
Group & Event Trips
Planning a birthday bash, reunion, or bachelorette party adventure? Make it unforgettable with a rafting trip that combines high-energy bonding with post-paddle chill time around a fire—or in a hot spring if you’re lucky.
More Ways to Spend Your Long Weekend
Looking for additional inspiration? We’ve put together a complete list of Things to Do Memorial Day Weekend that includes:
- Hot spring soaks after a long hike or paddle
- Camping destinations with epic views and no cell service (just the way we like it)
- Fishing, hiking, and scenic drives throughout our favorite spots in the Sierra, Cascades, and Rockies
Make This Memorial Day One to Remember
This Memorial Day weekend, honor the legacy of those who served by embracing the freedom they fought for—by being in nature, with people you love, doing something that makes you feel alive.
Whether that’s paddling a wild river, pitching a tent under the stars, or simply soaking in a scenic hot spring after a day of exploring—just make it meaningful.
And when you’re ready to plan it, we’re here to help you build it.
So, who’s ready to paddle?
Who’s ready to explore?
And who’s ready to make this weekend unforgettable?
