Tributary's California Rivers

Yuba River | SF American River | NF American River| EF Carson River | Giant Gap | Lwr MF American River
MF American River | Truckee River | Upper Klamath River (Hells Corner) | Lower Klamath River
Burnt Ranch Gorge | Trinity River | Salmon River | Scott River | Upper Sacramento River | Smith River
Eel River | Stainslaus River | Kaweah River | Feather River | North Fork of the Yuba River

Class IV & V
8-10 mi. (1 day)
18-36 mi. (2-4 days)
April-mid July
near Downieville, CA (meeting place)
1 hr. north of Nevada City (40 mi.)
2 hrs. northeast of Sacramento

Our favorite spring river, the Yuba sparkles and romps through a beautiful forested canyon. Sections of the North Yuba River are ideal for active first timers, and there are stretches for experienced rafters looking for Class V thrills. "The North Fork of the Yuba River is a classic. The combination of unimpeded flow, excellent rapids, beautiful scenery, plentiful camping and the quaint little town of Downieville all add up to a super river." (Guide to the Best Whitewater in the State of California; by Lars Holbek & Chuck Stanley.) Despite its proximity to the Bay Area, the North Fork Yuba is an uncrowded gem, with just three outfitters permitted to offer trips. We're one of the original companies who pioneered this river for commercial rafting in 1981. Tributary operates under a permit issued by the Tahoe National Forest. Located at the northern most end of the fabled Mother Lode highway, State Route 49, the river runs through the heavily forested Tahoe National Forest, past the majestic Sierra Buttes. Nearby are rustic and charming gold mining towns of Downieville and Sierra City. The area offers good selection of restaurants, interesting shops, cozy motels and saloons, historic landmarks, and plentiful camping. With over thirty-five miles of runnable river and a variety of Class IV-Class V whitewater thrills, both veterans and active first-timers alike can spend from one to four days maneuvering down the snow-melt waters from the surrounding 8000' peaks of the Sierra Nevada during the months of April through July. This river also offers exciting rafting in smaller boats at lower flows.

The most popular stretch of the North Yuba River is the Class IV Maytag run named after the famous Class V Maytag rapid, one of the most photographed big rapids in the west. We always stop and scout this rapid giving the clients the option of walking around. This trip finishes with a series of Class IV rapids down to our secluded camp at Indian Valley. Below our camp is a full day Class IV wilderness run. Upstream of these two runs are two Class V stretches, Moss Canyon / Rosassco Ravine and Wild Plum, both with challenging rapids and memorable scenery.

Class II-III+
9,11, or 21 mi. ( ½ day-2 days )
March-October
Coloma, CA (meeting place)
1 hr. east of Sacramento

The South Fork of the American River is the most popular whitewater rafting river in the West. It is exciting and lots of fun, with many memorable rapids. The river flows through the green and gold foothills of California's Gold Country. The South Fork American serves as an introduction to rafting for countless beginners and continues to lure veterans back year after year.

The action begins immediately with Meatgrinder and continues for the next five plus miles with Racehorse Bend, Triple Threat, the Class III+ Troublemaker and others. The river slows after this and we float past Sutter's Mill and the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. The lower section of the river starts off fairly mild with several Class II+ rapids as a warm-up. Soon we enter a steep granite canyon known as the 'Gorge' and the rapids occur frequently, with Fowler's Rock, the Class III+ Satan's Cesspool, Bouncing Rock, Hospital Bar and numerous milder but fun rapids.

Both half day or one day trips can be run on the lower or upper sections. The full length trip is usually run in two days, but we also offer this trip as a long one day option. Spring high water can make for an exciting Class IV adventure or a combination Class III-IV trip with the Middle Fork American River is a great choice for more excitement throughout the season.

NOTICE Water flows in the South Fork American River result from releases from hydroelectric facilities located upstream. Such water releases are not subject to the control of El Dorado County or commercial rafting companies operating under permit from the County of El Dorado

Class IV
9-13 mi. (1/2 day-1 day)
18-26 mi. (2 days)
April-June
Colfax, CA (meeting place)
off I-80, 1 hr. east of Sacramento

The North Fork American, with most of its length protected by federal Wild and Scenic status, starts its journey west from the headwaters in the Granite Chief Wilderness nestled between the ski areas of Sugar Bowl and Squaw Valley. The river freely tumbles through steep gorges on the Tahoe National Forest into a de facto wilderness area named the Auburn State Recreation Area.

The Chamberlain Falls run is the most intimate and romantic run in the Sierras. This clear, free-flowing aqua jewel makes rafting an inspiration. The rivers' polished gray rocks, nearly continuous pool and drop rapids and unsurpassed back country scenery provide a wilderness experience you will never forget. Paddle experience and competent swimming ability are requirements for paddle raft participation.

The challenge starts right from the beginning. First, we negotiate a Class III-IV gorge with a series of boulder slalom rapids called Slaughter's Sluice before crashing over Chamberlain Falls. In short order comes more Class III-IV rapids named Zig-Zag, Bogus Thunder, and Devils Staircase.

Next, we take a breather, do lunch, and savor the previous four miles of intense Class IV rapids. The second half of the trip the river mellows and we float through a tranquil, peaceful Class II canyon and take the opportunity to admire the beautiful, clean water and polished granite. Double runs in the same day may be possible for suitably qualified groups. On two day trips we can do the same stretch over or combine the North Fork with a one day on the South or Middle Fork American or the Yuba.

East Fork of the Carson River

Class II & III
7-21 mi. / 1/2, 1, & 2 days
April-July
Tahoe, CA & Reno, NV (meeting place)
one hour south of Tahoe or Reno

The Carson River, a recent addition to the National Wild and Scenic river system, is a unique fast paced, high elevation river (5500') with beautiful views of the snow capped eastern Sierras in the Toiyabe National Forest. The twenty-one mile wilderness trip can be enjoyed on a one or two day trip, but camping out under the giant Ponderosa pines, breathing clean mountain air and relaxing in a soothing hot spring makes an ideal wilderness camp-out, especially for first timers, families and laid back rafters.

The lower half of the run transitions into high Nevada desert with giant cottonwoods, gaggles of geese and goslings, and flocks of swallows nesting in their mud homes constructed on the underside of volcanic rock formations. For half day trips we can run the upper Class III seven mile stretch from "Cave Rock" to Hangman's Bridge", which is the put-in for the lower twenty one mile wilderness run. This upper stretch has a shorter season because of its elevated location in the watershed. However, the nearby Truckee River just west of Reno is nearly always available for half day trips. All Carson trips meet near picturesque Markleeville, in Alpine County, the least populated county in California. Many make a visit to this area solely to hike, or ski and soak at the nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park. Tributary operates under a permit issued by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Bureau of Land Management, Carson River District.

Class II-III+
7 mi. (1/2 day)
June-September
Truckee, CA (meeting place)
North Lake Tahoe

The Truckee River from Boca to Floriston is a seven mile run, with many Class II-III rapids for the first six miles and exciting Class III+ rapids in the last mile. This stretch is extremely convenient for visitors to Lake Tahoe and Reno. This run is guided whitewater and should no be confused with the three mile flat water raft rental stretch from Tahoe City to Alpine Meadows. Though the river parallels Interstate 80, the road is out of sight and sound. The surroundings seem quite remote and one can occasionally see a beaver toiling amongst the giant cottonwoods lining the bank.

Oar rafts may be provided on request, due to physical limitations or other reasons. Above the rapid "Bronco," it will be possible for the more timid passenger to disembark and hike from here to the take-out. Most will opt to run the most exciting rapid on the river. At the take-out point at Floriston, the equipment will be loaded while clients are served refreshments and one can look at pictures of the Truckee run taken by a professional photographer. Everyone is then returned to their original pick-up point. The duration of the trip being approximately 3 1/2 hours.

Class III-IV
17-25 mi. (1-3 days)
May-October
Auburn, CA (meeting place)
Auburn State Rec. Area 1 hr. east of Sacramento

The Middle Fork American River is a beautiful wilderness run that is eligible for Federal Wild and Scenic status. It is suitable for active, fit and adventurous first-timers and is also a great choice for those seeking a step up from the more crowded South Fork American. From its headwaters in the Granite Chief and Desolation Wildernesses on the west rim of Lake Tahoe, it flows through steep, rugged canyons within the Tahoe National Forest into the Auburn State Recreation Area. This river is one of our guides' favorite trips especially as a multi-day trip as they appreciate escaping into this pristine road-less area.

The infamous "Tunnel Chute" is one of the first big rapids encountered, but clients have the option of walking around this fierce looking cataract. There are numerous Class III-IV rapids in the first six miles, such as Last Chance, Submarine Hole and Kanaka. For the next seven miles, the pace is more mellow , allowing time to appreciate the solitude and beauty of the lush, forested canyon. You may get a glimpse of some wildlife, perhaps a bear, or spot a trout swimming in the incredibly clean and clear Sierra mountain water. We stop for lunch and possible side hikes while plenty of excitement lies ahead.

The Ruck-a-Chucky rapids start just below the entrance of Canyon Creek, a possible lunch spot. A 20' drop through a sieve of huge boulders makes the middle of these three rapids a mandatory portage, but the Class IV drops of Upper and Lower Ruck-a-Chucky are usually runnable. A two mile gorge laced with Class III-IV rapids such as Parallel Parking and Catapult follow. On a one day trip, our rafting finishes after seventeen miles, at the old Greenwood Bridge site. The bridge was demolished in the 1954 floods by a wall of water that surged down the canyon after the old Hell Hole Reservoir failed. Cold beverages are available at the take-out and our vans shuttle you up a rough dirt road to your awaiting vehicles where you can review photos taken earlier.

On two to three day trips on the Middle Fork American River, you have the chance to enjoy the beauty of this river in a more leisurely way. Between the 17-23 miles from Greenwood Bridge to Mammoth Bar, there is a wonderful hike up the American Canyon to some incredible waterfalls. We spend the night at isolated wilderness camps with plenty of opportunity to fish, gold pan, hike, swim, play or simply relax by the river with a cold beverage. The two miles from Mammoth Bar rapid to the North Fork Confluence can be run on our three day trips and includes the Class V Murderers Bar rapid.

Class II
7 miles ( ½ day)
See Middle Fork American for location and meeting

The Lower Middle Fork American River is a wonderful, brief introduction, especially suited for the under 8 year olds or the more nervous. It is near wilderness in many parts and has safe beach areas for picnicking and play. Very few people are seen on this trip, but nesting ducks, deer and heron often are (as well as the most incredible black berries for several months). For the older children or adults, safe but fun inflatable kayaks can be provided, making it a great family trip.

Class IV+
11-23 mi. (1-2 days)
May-October
Weed, CA (meeting place)
1 ½ hrs. drive north of Redding,
5 ¾ hrs. north of San Francisco

The Upper "K", one of America's newly protected national 'Wild and Scenic' rivers is generally the only "big water" river available from late June through October. The upper Klamath River has the longest rapids in the west, and they are still stomping during the summer and fall.

Expansive mountain meadows, surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines and other tall conifers make for wonderful camping. This river has real Old West character, with remnants of pioneer cabins and stage coach lines, rapids like Branding Iron, Ambush and Ol' Bushwhacker, Indian caves with petroglyphs and abundant wildlife. Deer, great blue heron and osprey are everywhere. Bald eagles and other rare bird species are often sighted. The caves in the rugged volcanic rock canyon are home to the federally protected Townsend's Big Eared Bats.

The river warms up with nearly six miles of Class III rapids before tackling the big stuff. The gradient changes and the next six miles offer some wild whitewater with the Class IV+ Caldera and Hell's Corner being the highlights. The rapids are long and the water big. On a two day trip, we camp near the Oregon / California state line.

Clients can try their hand at catching wild trout, swim in the usually warm waters or just relax discussing the days run after setting up camp. On the second day we run the best six mile stretch again starting from the old Frain Ranch site. Below State line Falls the canyon opens up and the river mellows, allowing you to try your hand at guiding the raft, body surfing or sipping a beverage until we reach our take-out at the Copco Lake Store.

This is the most difficult river we recommend for active first timers. Let us arrange group transportation for your trip to the Upper "K"!

Class III
18-28 mi. (2-3 days)
April-October
Happy Camp, CA (meeting place)
3 ½ hrs. northwest of Redding
7 hrs. north of San Francisco

The Klamath River is located in the northwestern corner of California, in an area referred to as the "Klamath Knot" (also a book title) for its semblance to the palm-side of a closed fist as viewed from space. It has 185 miles of runnable whitewater and is California's third longest river. Flowing west out of the Cascade Range, it traverses through a series of small mountain ranges named the Siskiyous, Salmon, Marble Mountains, Scott Bar Mountains and the Trinity Alps, collectively known as the Klamath Mountains. For most of its length, the river passes through the Klamath National Forest. Thirty- five miles before it reaches the Pacific Ocean the Klamath turns to the northwest and cuts through the Pacific Coast Range, one of only three rivers on the west coast that does so.

With many fun rapids such as Rattlesnake, Devil's Toe Nail, the Trench, Dragon's Tooth, Osprey, and Sasquatch Squeeze, plus large sandy beaches for camping and play, this is an ideal multi-day trip for families and first timers. With the addition of inflatable kayaks to our trip, there can be more than enough excitement for the hardy and more experienced river runner. One highlight of the trip is the rain forest setting of Ukonom Creek up to the twin 20' waterfall cascading into a large swimming hole. Besides Ukonom Falls, the Klamath is known for its warm water, swimming , steelhead and salmon fishing, and of course, abundant wildlife which can be seen from its shores.

Our typical two or three day trips are run on the thirty-six miles below Happy Camp but there are many miles both upstream and downstream that allow for four to five day trips or even longer.

The lower stretch is home to the Yurok tribe (whose name means "downstream") while the Karuk ("upstream") inhabit much of the river typically traveled by rafters and kayakers. The Karuk Traditional ceremonies are conducted at various locations on the sacred banks ("Inaam") of the Klamath. Out of respect to the Karuk tribe, camping and stopping is at times prohibited in these areas. Further downstream, Sugarloaf Mountain is also a sacred area. According to tribal culture, souls of the dead climb to the top then leap to the heavenly hereafter.

The Klamath River is the legendary home to Sasquatch and it's not hard to imagine the "Big Foot" creature hidden in the majestic forests along the river. Among the more visible creatures are heron, osprey, eagles, black bear, deer, beaver, raccoons and the fur-bearing otters, fishers, and minks.

Tributary operates under permits issued by the Klamath National Forest.

Burnt Ranch Gorge

Class V
10-18 mi. (1-2 days)
June-September
1 ½ hrs. west of Redding,
CA 1 hr. east of Eureka,
CA 6 hrs. north of San Francisco

Circling the southern boundary of the Salmon-Trinity Alps Wilderness and within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the Trinity River suddenly changes from its more mellow Class II-III whitewater, as the river cuts through a remote, formidable , sheer, rock-walled canyon named Burnt Ranch Gorge.

The river bed is nearly blocked by a maze of boulders and there are countless falls, holes and waves to negotiate. Only paddle boats are used because of the narrow and intricate passages and all participants must be experienced, physically fit and competent swimmers. The first raft descent was accomplished in 1982 and prior to this, the Gorge was considered impassable by raft . The introduction of the more maneuverable self-bailing raft, paved the way for commercial trips down such challenging whitewater.

Burnt Ranch Gorge is a classic pool and drop, and one of the few Class V rivers available in the summer months. Tributary operates under permit from the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

The trip starts a few miles upstream of the Gorge, where paddlers are required to show their abilities to handle the pace. A Class V paddlers test is conducted primarily in the river. On the first half we encounter such rapids as China Slide, Pearly Gates, Tight Squeeze and Jaws with 8'- 10' drops and chutes just barely wide enough for the raft to slip through. On regular two day trips we stop at Middle Burnt Ranch Falls, leaving the gear at the rivers edge and hike up to Burnt Ranch Campground. We stay there or take a short shuttle to alternative camping locations.

The second day, after a hike back into the Gorge, one should be prepared for an exciting day with Class V rapids of Lower Burnt Ranch Falls, Hennessy Falls, Origami, Table Rock and Gray's Falls awaiting. The last two miles are Class II allowing a welcome chance to swim the rapids and relax before the take-out at Hawkins Bar. For suitably qualified paddlers ( previous Class IV+ experience usually required ), the full run from Cedar Flat to Hawkins Bar is possible in one day, and on two day trips the Gorge may be run twice.

Main Trinity River

Class II-III+
6-18 mi. (1/2, 1, & 2 days)
April-October
near Weaverville, CA (meeting place)
1 ½ hrs. west of Redding
5 ½ hrs. north of San Francisco

The Trinity Rivers best whitewater stretches are downstream of the North Fork confluence where historic gold mining remnants are left behind, and the scenery is more lush and green as the river flows through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. A myriad of Class II-III rapids like the Slot, Sailors Bar, and Fish Tail, plus the big one , Hell Hole (Class III+) provide a thrill for first timers and youngsters. Camping is offered at vehicle accessible National Forest campgrounds (no showers), three developed campgrounds (with showers), or wilderness style settings where we take all our gear in separate oar rafts.

An ideal trip for families. With the addition of inflatable kayaks, even the experienced or more adventurous among us will have plenty of excitement. Oar boats are available for those who mostly want to relax. Tributary operates under permit from the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

The wildlife and scenery is excellent along the Trinity or "Hoopa" as it is called by the local Hoopa tribe. The silent river runner can often sight deer, hawks, eagles, osprey, herons, kingfishers, and the occasional bear, mink, otter and reclusive fisher. During September (usually the first or second weekend) take advantage of higher flows released for the Hoopa White Deerskin Boat Dance.

The Main Trinity River, the largest tributary of the Klamath and is a mighty river of its own, building steadily as it flows south, then west, then north, draining all but the northern flank of the Salmon-Trinity Alps Wilderness in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Historically significant as a gold mining area, nearly 10,000 miners were plying their trade on the Trinity and its side creeks in 1851, when the total population of California was roughly 50,000 people.

Legend has it that many Chinese miners lost their lives at a spot near the take-out named "China Slide." In the late 1800's, a huge mountain side slid down & buried the miners.

The mining of the gold rush era drastically altered and impaired the habitat of the Trinity, but so did the dam building era. Built in the 1960,s, the Trinity Dam created the third largest California reservoir, and started capturing the equivalent of two years runoff, diverting 80% of the water to southern California farmers and sounding a death knell for the salmon and steelhead runs and commercial fisheries. Contact us for information if you would like to help restore the fisheries.

Cal Salmon and Scott Rivers

Class IV-V
18-26 mi. (2-3 days)
April-early July
Somes Bar, CA (meeting place)
2 hrs. drive west of Yreka
7 3/4 hrs. north of San Francisco

The magnificent California Salmon and Scott rivers are natural wild and scenic river tributaries of the mighty Klamath which tumble swiftly out of the Marble Mountains and the Salmon-Trinity Alps Wilderness areas.

There are numerous Class IV and substantial Class V rapids on these runs. On the Salmon some of the tough passages are named Cascade, Achilles Heel, Whirling Dervish, Last Chance, Freight Train, the Fins, and the Gaping Maw.

The Class V rapids on the Scott River have names like White House, Tompkins Creek, Schuler Gulch, and Canyon Creek. There are plenty of unique rapids on both these rivers, and the superb beauty and grace is accentuated by the rugged carved granite, the deep woods of the Klamath National Forest, and the incredible waterfalls that tumble into the canyons.

Wildlife is plentiful, but easily hidden in this rugged terrain, although geese and eagles are often seen. The Salmon and Scott are two of California's top spring rivers and despite the driving distance to this remote area, "close to nowhere," many avid river runners gladly make the trek to northwestern California. They don't come away disappointed.

These rivers are recommended for experienced clients who are in good physical condition, and capable swimmers. Charter transportation is available from the Sacramento area, or for airport pick-up in Redding. Call for details.

Tributary operates under permits issued by the Klamath National Forest.

Upper Sacramento River

Class III-IV
14-36 mi. (1-3 days)
April-mid June
Sims Flat, CA (meeting place)
¾ hr. north of Redding
5 hrs. northeast of San Francisco

This The Upper Sacramento River is pure fun. Nearly continuous whitewater with majestic views of Mount Shasta and Castle Crags in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This excellent spring run has over thirty miles of whitewater and fifty plus rapids, and hardly any rafting traffic! Only minutes north of Redding, the "Upper Sac" is the handiest whitewater in the northern California mountains. The river features beautiful side creek waterfalls, abundant bird life and one of the best trout fisheries in California. We highly recommend this run for active first timers and Class III-IV veterans. A highlight of this trip is the second day rapid of Mears Creek Falls. Many choose to walk around this rapid and continue the short distance downstream to our camp while the guides maneuver rafts through or around the triple drops of this big rapid.Tributary operates under permits issued by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

The Smith River

Class III-V
Up to 50 mi. (2-4 days)
March - May
NW California, east of Crescent City and Jedediah Smith State Park.
7.5 - 8 hrs north of San Francisco and Sacramento.

The Smith River is a National Wild and Scenic River, which drains the western slopes of the jagged Siskiyou Mountains in the far northwestern corner of California. It is the last great free-flowing California River and these densely forested river canyons lie within the Six Rivers National Forest, and is designated as a National Recreation Area. It is easy to spend 4 or even 5 days rafting and enjoying this wonderful area. A unique river, that few people get to see due to its remoteness and short season. Once seen however, it's the kind of river that attracts those lucky few back, again and again.

The North Fork Smith is a beautiful, pristine 13-mile wilderness run, with dozens of Class 3 and 4 rapids and incredibly clear, clean water. There is unique plant-life, with lacy Port-Orford cedar, orchids, pitcher plants, azaleas and wild flowers. Wilderness camping is possible, weather permitting. After the confluence with the Middle Fork, there are 6 miles of action packed Class 3 rapids on the main Smith, and then the river enters the narrow, steep-walled Oregon Hole Gorge, an optional Class 5 section.

The South Fork Smith offers nearly 12 miles of exhilarating Class 3 pool and drop white water and the mile long South Fork Gorge, another optional Class 5 section. Though not as pristine as the untouched North Fork Smith, the South Fork still provides excellent scenery with fir, cedar, maples and some redwoods, with moss and fern covered canyon walls. The wildlife you might see are black-tailed deer, otters, bald-eagles and black bear. .

The Middle Fork Smith can provide an additional 8 miles of Class 3-4 whitewater on its upper reaches.

Camping is possible among the old growth redwoods in Jedediah Smith State Park or at Forest Service campgrounds east of Gasquet.

Middle and South Fork Eel River

Class II-IV +
30 mi. / 2-3 days
March-early June
Willits, CA (meeting place)
13 mi. northeast of Willits
3 hours north of Bay Area

The Middle Fork Eel is one of the best long, true wilderness runs in California. Its limited and fairly unpredictable season prevents it from being more popular, as do the more difficult rapids at the end of the run. Commercial trips are few, but suitably qualified private weekend boaters enjoy the isolation and beauty of this run, thus weekday trips will more likely ensure almost total seclusion. The first 26 miles provide Class II rapids through a broad valley. The rolling hills support pine, fir, and other wildflowers. Deer, otters, and even bear frequent the river corridor where large sandy beaches are available for relaxed lunch stops and camping.

The river suddenly changes before its confluence with the Main Eel and it drops into a three mile gorge where Class III and IV rapids provide plenty of excitement. Coal Mine Falls (Class V) is either portaged or run very carefully. Personal gear should be kept to a minimum, but cold weather rain gear and sneakers should always be included as water levels dictate portages around this rapid. The run can be extended for 46 or more miles after the confluence with the Main Eel.

The South Fork Eel is a great winter & early Spring run, best attempted on sunny days after a nice rain storm has passed through the area. Only for the hearty and adventurous. Call for schedule and prices.

Stanislaus River

Not Available in 2009

Class III-IV+
5-9 miles (1 day)
See below
Knights Ferry, CA (meeting place)
1 ¾ hrs. east of San Jose
2 hrs southeast of Sacramento

During the last 2 decades, we have lost sections of this river, regained them and lost them again. The sad saga of the Stanislaus River has been ongoing since the early 70's, when there was a bitter fight to save this beautiful limestone canyon from the proposed New Melones Dam. The fight was lost in 1982 when the last stretch was buried beneath the rising waters of the reservoir. For a brief period in the late 80's, enough water was released from the dam to allow commercial boating on the more difficult Goodwin Canyon run below the dam. With the drought for several years in the early 90's, the Camp 9 section of the Stanislaus was uncovered from the depths of New Melones reservoir and the fight was on to try and keep this beautiful canyon alive again. Commercial trips were again possible from 1990 through 1994, but unfortunately it was again buried by the reservoirs rising waters. The Goodwin Canyon run below the dam was effected by the drought and restrictive permit limitations enforced by the Army Corps of Engineers and had not been available for many years except for brief periods of higher water releases in the Spring and late fall, but this situation may well be changing again. Call our office for up-to-date information about Goodwin Canyon. Due to very fluctuating flows on the North Fork Stanislaus and the availability of other great springtime runs, Tributary does not offer commercial trips on this section of the Stanislaus.

Kaweah River

Class IV+
9 mi. / 1-2 days
April-July
Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers, CA
3 1/2 hours drive from Los Angeles,
5 hours from San Francisco

Flowing from its 12,000' elevation headwaters in the Sequoia National Park, the Kaweah River is ideal for hardy and adventurous folks in good physical condition and with good swimming ability. One of America's steepest rivers, the Kaweah in its first few miles has wild whitewater with many rapids like Powerhouse, Suicide Falls, and others. After a calm stretch through the town of Three Rivers, the pace picks up as we take on the "Slickies," (a unique river feature you'll always remember) which is a polished granite slalom that surfs one way, then another, while swirling around. With southern California close-by, the Kaweah River offers a great opportunity to combine a whitewater adventure with an excursion to the majestic trees and mountains of the Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park. On two day trips we offer options with camping or lodging (see our price list for details).

Feather River

Not Available in 2009

Class III-IV
9-18 mi. (1-2 days)
April-mid-June
Tobin, CA (meeting place)
1 hr. NE of Oroville & Chico (47 miles)
2 ¼ hrs N. of Sacramento (106 miles)
2 hrs SW of Susanville (93 miles)

The Upper Feather River, the northern most river of the Sierra Nevada Range, is now being offered for the first time as a commercial raft trip. Several runs on the Feather, each approximately nine miles long, offer exciting Class III-IV whitewater near the charming resorts of Tobin and Belden.

The river flows through the Plumas National Forest and borders Buck's Lake Wilderness area with surrounding peaks of over 6,000 feet. The granite walls and domes draw some comparisons to dramatic Yosemite Valley. Though not as pristine as the National Park, due to the presence of a railroad line and State Highway 70, the wilderness is not far. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses Hwy. 70 at Belden and many lower trails criss-cross up the canyon walls and along side creeks to many wilderness locations such as Buck's Lake, Chip's Creek and Yellow Creek. Highway 70 between Oroville & Quincy is one of the most popular scenic driving routes in the state and is a major portion of the Feather River National Scenic Byway. In the spring the canyon's beauty is reflected in cascading waterfalls of nearly 100' and wildflowers abound.

Before water diversions and controls, these sections of river supported the most famous rainbow trout fishing in the world. Good fishing still abounds however in the river, creeks and lakes of the area.