At Tributary Whitewater, we recognize that the rivers we explore have been home to Indigenous communities for thousands of years. These lands hold cultural, historical, and spiritual significance to the Native peoples who have stewarded them long before our presence. We are deeply committed to honoring their legacy and acknowledging the profound connections these communities have with the lands we raft upon. This acknowledgment is an essential part of fostering understanding, inclusivity, and respect, and it evolves as we continue to learn. We encourage you to visit each river’s page to explore further and understand the rich histories of the Indigenous peoples whose lands we visit.
This page and its acknowledgments are an evolving project. If you notice any omissions or have additional information, please feel free to share with us. Together, we can ensure a more accurate, inclusive, and respectful understanding of the lands we explore.
The Truckee River region is historically the ancestral lands of the Washoe people, who have maintained a deep and enduring connection with the land and its resources, including the river’s clear waters and surrounding wildlife. Efforts continue today to preserve and honor the cultural heritage of the Washoe Tribe. Learn more about the Truckee River rafting here.
The Yurok, Karuk, Hoopa, Shasta, and Klamath tribes have called the Klamath River Basin home for thousands of years. The name “Klamath” originates from the Native word “Tlamatl,” meaning “swiftness” in the Chinook language. These communities continue to be deeply connected to the river and its health today. Learn more about the Lower Klamath River rafting here.
As we journey along the North Yuba, we pass through lands historically inhabited by the Nisenan and Maidu tribes. Acknowledging their presence helps us better understand the deep cultural ties they have to this river and region. Learn more about North Yuba River rafting here.
The Washoe Tribe has rich cultural connections to the lands surrounding the East Fork Carson River. Honoring these communities is a way of recognizing their legacy and the ongoing relationship they maintain with this land. Learn more about the East Fork Carson River rafting here.
This region is traditionally the homeland of the Southern Maidu, Valley and Plains Miwok/Me-Wuk, and Patwin Wintun peoples. Their presence and cultural traditions are integral to the landscape and continue to inform our understanding of the area’s history. Learn more about South Fork American River rafting here.
The Middle Fork flows through lands traditionally inhabited by the Nisenan, Miwok, Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), Shoshone-Bannock, and Lemhi-Shoshone tribes. The cultural significance of the river and the surrounding lands continues to be honored today. Learn more about Middle Fork American River rafting here.
This section of the river is home to the Nisenan (Southern Maidu) and Miwok tribes, who have deep-rooted connections to this landscape. Acknowledging their history helps foster respect and understanding for these ancestral lands. Learn more about Lower Middle Fork American River rafting here.
The North Fork American River region is the homeland of the Southern Maidu, Valley and Plains Miwok/Me-Wuk, and Patwin Wintun peoples. Their ancestral presence and cultural practices continue to be honored along this river. Learn more about North Fork American River rafting here.
The Hoopa Valley Tribe has inhabited the land surrounding the Trinity River for centuries, holding a deep connection to the river’s waters and its significance in their cultural and spiritual life. Learn more about the Trinity River rafting here.
The lands surrounding the Cal Salmon River are part of the ancestral territories of the Karuk and Yurok peoples. Recognizing their deep history with the river is a way of honoring their ongoing cultural legacy. Learn more about Cal Salmon River rafting here.
The Snake River passes through the traditional territories of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce), Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Palouse tribes. These communities have historical and cultural ties to the river, maintaining their legacies through their ongoing connection with the land. Learn more about Snake River rafting here.
We honor the ancestral lands of the Tolowa Dee-ni’, Takelma, Modoc, Cow Creek Umpqua, Tututni, as well as the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde along the Rogue River. Their traditions and histories are deeply connected to the river canyons we explore today. Learn more about Rogue River rafting here.
The Owyhee River runs through the ancestral lands of the Shoshone-Paiute people. Their enduring connection with the land is a testament to the cultural and spiritual significance of this river. Learn more about Owyhee River rafting here.
The Deschutes River is traditionally home to the Tenino, Tygh, Wyam, Sahaptin, Wascoes, Warm Springs, Paiutes, and other Indigenous communities. These tribes have maintained a long-standing relationship with the river, both as a source of sustenance and a vital part of their cultural heritage. Learn more about Deschutes River rafting here.
We launch trips on many different rivers in California, Oregon and Idaho. For questions give our main office a call – we would love to talk with you about our trips and rivers.
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Our vision is to create a sustainable and equitable reality where our rivers are enjoyed and protected, a place where families and friends can be inspired and challenged.
Tributary Whitewater Tours has been running rivers since we were first founded in 1978. Since we opened 40+ years ago we have expanded to include Adventure Connection, Mariah Wilderness Expeditions, High Desert River Outfitters, Canyon Outfitters and are the parent company of Raft California and Raft Oregon. While some things have changed over the years, Tributary remains a family-run small business with the same passion for the river and the mission of leading others to experience it.
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