American River Rafting and California Whitewater Rafting - water level conditions for the coming season
Water level predictions for American River rafting and other California Whitewater rafting trips for 2012:
We had an incredible season in 2011 due to a 170% of normal snow pack which meant we had a longer season on the free flowing rivers, and ones that are usually finished in June, ran well into July. It also led to some problems due to high water in June, but that is unusual.
We have no idea what Mother Nature has in store this winter, however, some rivers like the American River and Klamath Rivers are dam controlled and have reliable flows from April through September regardless. As Tributary offers so many choices, we can usually find a suitable rafting trip for you at any time of the season, and for all ability levels.We will know much more in March, but see below for the specifics for each river.
South Fork American River Rafting - has guaranteed releases nearly all year round, though we will not schedule trips until April. Generally higher flows and more excitement is to be found before mid-June, but guaranteed releases mean exciting whitewater through the season. It is not like some rivers in S. California that will be rock gardens by August. For younger children and non-swimmers,consider the Lower Middle Fork American River or choose the lower Gorge run instead of the upper Chili Bar run. We will be operating 7 days a week from early April through the end of September.
Middle Fork American River Rafting - has guaranteed water releases usually from mid-May, and then we will be running this great Class 3-4 rafting trip ALL SUMMER through at least Sept 25th. Check out this great wilderness canyon on a 2 day trip, especially recommended for a great "get away" for bachelor parties and groups who like camping privacy and often a custom trip. .
North Fork Yuba River rafting - most reliable time is usually mid-April into early June, though last season ran well into July.
North Fork American River rafting - most reliable time is usually mid-April through May, but historic flows well into July in 2011.
Truckee River rafting trips - we usually schedule the all summer Boca Run from mid-May through September. In the event of higher water flows during peak snow melt, we will switch to the easier downstream section (Verdi Run) closer to Reno.
We are always very busy on the Truckee River due to the popularity of Lake Tahoe, so. BOOK WELL AHEAD!
East Fork Carson rafting - usually offer trips from mid-May well into June depending on the snow pack. 2011 trips ran well into July.
Upper Sacramento Rafting - usually offer trips from mid-May well into June depending on the snow pack. 2011 trips ran well into July.
California Salmon River - usually offer trips from mid-May well into June depending on the snow pack. 2011 trips ran well into July.
Burnt Ranch Gorge on the Trinity River - this class 5 run, though dam controlled is dependant on the type of water year. Trips can be available from late June into early August, but usually only a window of a few weeks. Check with us in March or April for predictions.
Trinity River Rafting - usually best time to run is in June and early July. In 2011 flows were great through most of the summer, but in a regular snow-pack year flows can get lower than we like in late July and August. Better water is to be found on the Lower Klamath most summers. Check out Family Special trips for 2012 schedule.
Lower Klamath River Rafting - best time is usually late June through August. Check out Family Special trips scheduled during July and August.
Upper Klamath River Rafting - one of the best choices for great Class 4+ summer whitewater and usually stomping all the way through September.
