WHITE WATER RAFTINGNear South Lake Tahoe

River Rafting Near South Lake Tahoe

Join Tributary Whitewater Tours for an exhilarating journey through the rapids and serene waters around South Lake Tahoe. Our expert-led tours cater to thrill-seekers and families alike, offering a blend of adventure and breathtaking natural beauty.

Why Raft with Us?

  • All Skill Levels: From easy floats on the East Fork Carson, to thrilling Class III rapids on the Truckee River and Class IV on the Yuba River.
  • Stunning Scenery: Immerse in Tahoe’s beauty from a unique vantage point.
  • Unique Experiences: Enjoy river canyons, hot springs and side hikes.

Your Next Adventure

  • Popular Tahoe Rafting: The Truckee River’s Boca to Floriston trip offers excitement for groups and individuals, no experience needed.
  • Relaxed Rafting: The East Fork Carson River trip combines hot springs and history for a leisurely adventure.

Ready for South Lake Tahoe water rafting? Tributary Whitewater Tours promises unforgettable river adventures.

Contact us now to reserve your spot and experience the best river rafting near Lake Tahoe. You might also enjoy white water rafting near Reno, NV  or white water rafting Sacramento

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Truckee River

Dates: April
- October

The Truckee River is located in the western United States originating in California and crossing into Nevada. It flows approximately 121 miles from Lake Tahoe through the Sierra Nevada mountains and into Pyramid Lake in Nevada.

Our guided Truckee River whitewater rafting trips leave from Truckee which is north of Tahoe City by 20 miles. Travel time is approximately 1.5 hours from South Lake Tahoe, 30 minutes from Reno and 10 minutes from Truckee.

  • Truckee River rafting trips are available all summer from mid-May to end of September
  • Perfect summertime activity for families ages 7+ while visiting Lake Tahoe
  • We white water raft two different sections depending on river flows – Boca run and Verdi run
  • Unique Tahoe scenery with a volcanic canyon and craggy cliffs
  • Note that our our guided rafting trips run even when the Tahoe City raft rentals do not

RIVER RAFTING ON THE North Yuba River

Dates: April
- May

The North Yuba River travels through the scenic Tahoe National Forest, and is fed by the snow-melt from the majestic 8000+ peaks of the Sierra Buttes. It is located at the north end of the fabled Mother Lode highway (Hwy 49). The nearby mining towns of Downieville and Sierra City provide rustic charm and great history. There is plentiful camping, a good selection of restaurants, cozy cabins & motels, saloons and historic landmarks.

  • Challenging Class IV & V rapids
  • An early spring-time whitewater adventure: not always available
  • Best technical whitewater in California, ready to thrill you with its challenges
  • Exciting wildlife and spectacular views
  • Uncrowded as there are only 3 commercial permits
  • Several rafting options depending on flows

RIVER RAFTING ON THE East Fork Carson River

Dates: April
- May

The East Fork Carson River is located in the eastern part of California, primarily in Alpine County only 35 miles away from Lake Tahoe. The river flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and its headwaters are in the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness. The East Fork Carson River is a tributary of the Carson River, and it eventually joins the main stem of the Carson River.

We meet for all of these trips in the picturesque old town of Markleeville.

  • Soak in natural hot springs along the river
  • Free flowing river, not dam controlled, and only available in the spring (Rafting this river section is based on water height not available every year)
  • Close to Lake Tahoe, a perfect experience to add to your Tahoe vacation
  • High elevation river located in the northern end of the Eastern Sierras
  • Beautiful side hike from camp
  • Fantastic fishing including Lahontan cutthroat trout
  • We are one of two companies that have a permit to raft the East Fork Carson
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