Tahoe City to River Ranch is a Class 1-2, family-friendly river run. The Class 2-3 segment from the River Ranch access to Silver Creek Campground has some solid Class 3 rapids, and Silver Creek to Donner Creek is Class 1-2.
There are three US Forest Service campgrounds along this stretch of river which are easily access from Hwy. 89. Silver Creek, Goose Meadows and Granite Flat. Sites generally fill up fast for the summer months, and reservations are recommended.
Truckee's flow is highly regulated, with most river flow fully allocated through a system of water rights, set by the Truckee River Operating Agreement. Water levels on the Truckee River vary widely by season and the river is navigable depending on the flow rates and your experience level. Make sure to assess water levels at the following sites before your trip:
View the daily streamflow conditions on the USGS Waterdata website, or use the links below to see specific gauge sites along the river.
Check out the rafting tour providers in Tahoe City, for a fun day-trip between Tahoe City and River Ranch: Truckee River Rafting | Tahoe City to River Ranch
Rental equipment and rafting/kayaking tours are also available at: Sierra Adventure.
For area visitors information, see the Visit Truckee-Tahoe website.
The Town of Truckee website provides ideas for places to stay, eat and recreate.
Visit the Tahoe.com and the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority websites for more information on Tahoe City and the West Shore of Lake Tahoe
Download map files for your own use.
Parking and river access is available in Tahoe City at the 64-Acres Tahoe Trailhead. Take out at the Donner Creek inflow, on W. River Street in Truckee. There are also several access points along the river, including River Ranch, and the US Forest Service campgrounds along Highway 89.
In the Spring runoff months, water may be very fast and high. Paddlers should use caution and plan accordingly.
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