WHITE WATER RAFTINGNear Northern California

White Water Rafting Northern California

Embark on the ultimate white water rafting Northern California adventure with Tributary Whitewater Rafting Tours! Our diverse offerings cater to thrill-seekers and families alike, featuring the best California whitewater rafting experiences. From serene Class II to exhilarating Class V rapids, our trips are designed to satisfy every adventurer’s desire.

  • Family Adventures: Ideal for families, our Lower Klamath River trips offer multi-day California rafting experiences that are perfect for children as young as 4. These trips, based in Happy Camp, CA, include camping, rafting, and a hike to the stunning Ukonom Falls, making them a top choice for white water rafting California.
  • Thrill Seekers’ Paradise: Experience the rush of Class IV rapids on our Upper Klamath River trips, a highlight for those seeking the best white water rafting Northern California has to offer.
  • Unique Journeys: Explore more with trips on the Cal. Salmon and Trinity River, ranging from Class III to V, offering something for every level of rafter, including those looking for California river rafting or white water rafting Bay Area adventures.

Our Lower Klamath River trip stands out as the most popular choice for those seeking a comprehensive whitewater rafting California experience, blending adventure with relaxation in a true wilderness setting. Suitable for the entire family, including non-swimmers and young kids, these trips promise an unforgettable rafting California adventure.

Explore the thrill of California rafting adventures with us, from serene family trips to Class V rapids for the daring. Near the coast, our Bay Area rafting experiences offer an easy getaway into nature’s wonders. With a range of trips like the Lower Klamath River journey, Tributary Whitewater Rafting Tours ensures an unforgettable adventure across California’s landscapes for all ages and skills.

RIVER RAFTING ON THE South Fork American River

Dates: March
- October

The South Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, only 30 minutes from Sacramento. It is one of the major tributaries of the American River and flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range before spilling into Folsom Reservoir.

The South Fork is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The river passes through areas in El Dorado County, providing access to the diverse landscapes of the Sierra Nevada region.

  • Three rafting sections with six diverse white water trip experiences
  • Several specialty rafting trip options including winetasting, ropes course, a live band, a creative workshop and a yoga retreat.
  • Take 50% off kids on mid-week whitewater rafting trips. (Mondays through Thursdays.) Learn more. 
  • South Fork American River rafting trips include the popular Gorge Run and Chili Bar sections
  • Variety levels to choose from – Class II to Class III+
  • Rafting for kids as young as 4 and  accommodations for guests of varying abilities and needs
  • Long season – provides great rafting and white water the entire summer and through Labor Day weekend
  • Camping is available before or after any South Fork American River rafting trip at our private campground
  • Close to major cities such as Sacramento and San Francisco
  • Professional photography companies shoot at the major rapids on the river. You can view your photos online after your trip

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Middle Fork American River

Dates: June
- September

The Middle Fork is one of the main tributaries of the American River located in Northern California.  The proximity of the American River to Sacramento and San Francisco makes the Middle Fork American River accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

  • Fast paced, fun and challenging Class IV rapids
  • Renowned “Tunnel Chute,” a man-made marvel from the Gold Rush Era with a 90-foot rock tunnel and a 6-foot drop
  • Ability to camp at our private campground right on the river
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic River section

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Lower Middle Fork American River

Dates: April
- September

The Lower Middle Fork of the American River is a picturesque and ecologically significant waterway located in Northern California. Flowing through the Sierra Nevada foothills, this segment of the American River west towards Sacramento this section of river is a  perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

  • Perfect river rafting trip for young families and older generations
  • Great rafting introduction for children
  • We are one of the few outfitters that offer this section of river
  • Available all summer long, perfect for summer breaks
  • Inflatable kayaks available for rent
  • Mellow section of the American River
  • Small group sizes

RIVER RAFTING ON THE North Fork American River

Dates: April
- May

The North Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, 30 minutes east of Sacramento. The river flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range (near Lake Tahoe) and is a tributary of the American River.

North Fork American River rafting offers fantastic, challenging, whitewater rafting trips through steep walled canyons in the spring.

  • Challenging Class IV river rafting
  • Free-flowing limited spring season rafting trip
  • Clear cold water (don’t worry the Class IV adrenaline helps)
  • Steep walled canyon
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic section
  • North Fork River rafting is close to Sacramento, San Francisco and Lake Tahoe

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 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

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Lower Klamath River

Dates: May
- July

The Lower Klamath River is located in Northern California and Southern Oregon in the United States. It flows westward from Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon, forming part of the border between California and Oregon. It is approximately 350 to 400 miles north of San Francisco in the Klamath National Forest.

  • One of the first rivers in California to be named a Wild and Scenic River and awarded the 2024 River of the Year by American Rivers
  • Features large, sandy beaches to lounge on and warm, clear waters to swim in
  • Offers three incredible days of river rafting— perfect for families with kids ages 4+
  • Opportunity to take a beautiful side hike to the remote Ukonum Falls, a pair of twin waterfalls spilling 25 feet down to a swimming hole
  • A birdwatcher’s dream! Countless migratory birds and the nearby wildlife refuges have the largest winter population of bald eagles in the Lower 48 states
  • Fantastic fishing for both steelhead at our overnight camps
  • Watch for black bears, otters, and deer as you raft through the Klamath-Siskiyou region, one of the most biodiverse areas of the US. Maybe you’ll even see Bigfoot!
  • Navigate smaller rapids yourself in our inflatable kayaks

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 Trinity River

Dates: June
- August

The Trinity River is located in Northern California, with our meeting point about an 1 1/2 hrs west of Redding. It flows through the Klamath Mountains and Trinity Alps, passing through Trinity County and flowing into the Klamath River. The Trinity River is known for its diverse landscapes, including canyons, forests, and mountainous terrain.

  • Trips vary in difficulty and length
  • Whitewater rafting available all summer long
  • Class III half-day trip options
  • Class IV & V trips with 1 day and 2 day options through the Burnt Ranch Gorge section
  • Located in Northern California in the Trinity Alps only
  • Dense forests, mountainous terrain and scenic canyons
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic River section
  • Trinity River trips require group bookings

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Upper Klamath River

Dates:
-

RIVER RAFTING ON THE North Fork American River

Dates: April
- May

The North Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, 30 minutes east of Sacramento. The river flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range (near Lake Tahoe) and is a tributary of the American River.

North Fork American River rafting offers fantastic, challenging, whitewater rafting trips through steep walled canyons in the spring.

  • Challenging Class IV river rafting
  • Free-flowing limited spring season rafting trip
  • Clear cold water (don’t worry the Class IV adrenaline helps)
  • Steep walled canyon
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic section
  • North Fork River rafting is close to Sacramento, San Francisco and Lake Tahoe

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Lower Middle Fork American River

Dates: April
- September

The Lower Middle Fork of the American River is a picturesque and ecologically significant waterway located in Northern California. Flowing through the Sierra Nevada foothills, this segment of the American River west towards Sacramento this section of river is a  perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

  • Perfect river rafting trip for young families and older generations
  • Great rafting introduction for children
  • We are one of the few outfitters that offer this section of river
  • Available all summer long, perfect for summer breaks
  • Inflatable kayaks available for rent
  • Mellow section of the American River
  • Small group sizes

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 Upper Klamath River

Dates:
-

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Lower Klamath River

Dates: May
- July

The Lower Klamath River is located in Northern California and Southern Oregon in the United States. It flows westward from Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon, forming part of the border between California and Oregon. It is approximately 350 to 400 miles north of San Francisco in the Klamath National Forest.

  • One of the first rivers in California to be named a Wild and Scenic River and awarded the 2024 River of the Year by American Rivers
  • Features large, sandy beaches to lounge on and warm, clear waters to swim in
  • Offers three incredible days of river rafting— perfect for families with kids ages 4+
  • Opportunity to take a beautiful side hike to the remote Ukonum Falls, a pair of twin waterfalls spilling 25 feet down to a swimming hole
  • A birdwatcher’s dream! Countless migratory birds and the nearby wildlife refuges have the largest winter population of bald eagles in the Lower 48 states
  • Fantastic fishing for both steelhead at our overnight camps
  • Watch for black bears, otters, and deer as you raft through the Klamath-Siskiyou region, one of the most biodiverse areas of the US. Maybe you’ll even see Bigfoot!
  • Navigate smaller rapids yourself in our inflatable kayaks

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

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Cal Salmon River

Dates: March
- August

The magnificent California Salmon & Scott rivers are natural wild and scenic river tributaries of the mighty Klamath River. They tumble swiftly out of the Marble Mountains and the Salmon-Trinity Alps Wilderness areas. Wildlife is plentiful, but easily hidden in this rugged terrain. Add the scenic beauty of rugged carved granite, the forests of the Klamath National Forest, and the incredible waterfalls that tumble into the canyons.

  • Raft Wild & Scenic the California Salmon (Cal Salmon) and Scott River
  • Must do section for experienced rafters
  • Challenging Class IV and V rapids

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Middle Fork American River

Dates: June
- September

The Middle Fork is one of the main tributaries of the American River located in Northern California.  The proximity of the American River to Sacramento and San Francisco makes the Middle Fork American River accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

  • Fast paced, fun and challenging Class IV rapids
  • Renowned “Tunnel Chute,” a man-made marvel from the Gold Rush Era with a 90-foot rock tunnel and a 6-foot drop
  • Ability to camp at our private campground right on the river
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic River section

RIVER RAFTING ON THE South Fork American River

Dates: March
- October

The South Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, only 30 minutes from Sacramento. It is one of the major tributaries of the American River and flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range before spilling into Folsom Reservoir.

The South Fork is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The river passes through areas in El Dorado County, providing access to the diverse landscapes of the Sierra Nevada region.

  • Three rafting sections with six diverse white water trip experiences
  • Several specialty rafting trip options including winetasting, ropes course, a live band, a creative workshop and a yoga retreat.
  • Take 50% off kids on mid-week whitewater rafting trips. (Mondays through Thursdays.) Learn more. 
  • South Fork American River rafting trips include the popular Gorge Run and Chili Bar sections
  • Variety levels to choose from – Class II to Class III+
  • Rafting for kids as young as 4 and  accommodations for guests of varying abilities and needs
  • Long season – provides great rafting and white water the entire summer and through Labor Day weekend
  • Camping is available before or after any South Fork American River rafting trip at our private campground
  • Close to major cities such as Sacramento and San Francisco
  • Professional photography companies shoot at the major rapids on the river. You can view your photos online after your trip

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Trinity River

Dates: June
- August

The Trinity River is located in Northern California, with our meeting point about an 1 1/2 hrs west of Redding. It flows through the Klamath Mountains and Trinity Alps, passing through Trinity County and flowing into the Klamath River. The Trinity River is known for its diverse landscapes, including canyons, forests, and mountainous terrain.

  • Trips vary in difficulty and length
  • Whitewater rafting available all summer long
  • Class III half-day trip options
  • Class IV & V trips with 1 day and 2 day options through the Burnt Ranch Gorge section
  • Located in Northern California in the Trinity Alps only
  • Dense forests, mountainous terrain and scenic canyons
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic River section
  • Trinity River trips require group bookings