THE RIVER TRIP · TAHOE CITY
Tahoe City river rafting on the Truckee River
Float five miles from the Lake Tahoe dam to River Ranch Lodge in a private-to-your-party raft. No whitewater experience needed.
The Tahoe City float
Easy water. Mountain scenery. A proper summer afternoon.
Tahoe City River Rafting on the Truckee River is a self-guided, five-mile float for families, couples, and visitors who want to get on the water without committing to a whitewater expedition. The river is mostly Class I with five small rapids, and the end stretch is the most challenging.
Bring a reasonably sized cooler, look for a swimming hole, stop at a sandbar, and let the current carry you toward the River Ranch Patio. Your party does not share a raft with unrelated guests.
Choose your day
Reserve your place on the river.
Pick a date in the live booking calendar and arrive ready to float. Summer weekends fill quickly; earlier reservations are encouraged.
Cancel 24 hours before your trip for a full refund. Rescheduling is allowed.
Secure online reservations · 2–3 hour float · shuttle included
What to expect
From parking lot to patio, it is all mapped out.
Plan for a simple check-in, an easy launch, a choose-your-own-pace float, and a shuttle ride back to your vehicle.
- 01
Park at Hidden Valley
All rafters park at 2200 River Road, Tahoe City. Parking at the launch site is limited.
- 02
Check in and take the shuttle
Complete paperwork at 2200 River Road, then ride the shuttle to the launch point near the Lake Tahoe dam.
- 03
Float five miles
Set your own pace through gentle current, mountain views, swimming holes, sandbars, and a few small rapids near the end.
- 04
Exit at River Ranch Patio
Staff help you out of the raft and a shuttle waits at River Ranch Lodge to return you to your vehicle.
Bring the right stuff
Pack for a wet, sunny day outside.
Footwear is required and you should expect to get wet. Keep valuables at home or in a waterproof container.
Good to bring
- Swimwear or quick-drying clothes
- Secure footwear or flip-flops
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses with a strap
- Snacks and drinks in a reasonably sized cooler
- A waterproof bag for anything you cannot lose
Leave behind
- Glass and Styrofoam
- Fishing poles
- Car keys, rings, and non-waterproof cameras
Before you book
Good questions make good river days.
Find direct answers about age limits, life jackets, dogs, parking, alcohol, weather, and reservations.
Read all rafting FAQsThe waiver is available through a link in your confirmation email.
Rafters under two years old are not allowed on the Truckee River Raft Company float.
Yes, except during July 1–6 because of state law. A reasonably sized cooler is allowed. Glass and Styrofoam are prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.
Children can go without an adult if they are 15 or older, provided a parent comes to sign the release form at the time of the trip.
Children 12 and younger must wear life jackets throughout the trip. Older rafters must keep the provided jacket in the raft.
Ready when you are
Book the Tahoe City float.
Cancel 24 hours before your trip for a full refund. Rescheduling is allowed.