Truckee River Boca-Floriston Run: Class III Whitewater

Three and a half hours of technical rapids and flat water pools on the Truckee

The Boca-Floriston Run on the Truckee River near Lake Tahoe is a half-day whitewater rafting trip mixing Class III+ rapids with long flat sections for swimming, starting at the historic town of Boca and finishing in Floriston Gorge. The operator was the first to offer commercial trips on this stretch. All safety gear—PFD, helmet, wetsuits in cold weather—is included, and transport back to the meeting point is arranged.

Step-by-step itinerary

Whitewater rafting on Truckee River

• Start at historic Boca town site
• Navigate easy rapids through boulder gardens
• Swim in long flat swimming areas
• Raft through Class III+ rapids
• Finish in Floriston Gorge

The Experience

The run starts with easy rapids through boulder gardens, so first-time rafters get a gentle introduction before the pace picks up. Between the technical sections, long flat swimming areas let you cool off on a hot day—the river itself becomes part of the break. The excitement builds toward the end as Class III+ rapids lead into an exhilarating finish in Floriston Gorge.

You'll need shoes that strap or tie securely to your feet—water shoes, sturdy sandals with heel straps, or tennis shoes work; flip-flops and bare feet are not allowed. Dress to get wet in a swimsuit or quick-drying shorts and shirt. Children as young as 7 can join, and the operator provides all safety equipment: personal flotation device, helmet, and wetsuits if the water is cold. Participants need to be in good health and weigh no more than 250 pounds.

The trip takes place just outside Truckee, California, a historic town in the Sierra Nevada with roots in the Gold Rush and the transcontinental railroad. Public transportation options are available nearby if you need them to reach the meeting point.

What’s included

Personal flotation device, helmet, and wetsuits (in cold weather); transport back to the meeting point at Boca.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Tahoe Whitewater Tours

Is this one for you?At 3.5 hours, this half-day trip leaves room for other activities in your Lake Tahoe day—a morning or afternoon slot that doesn't consume the whole schedule. The mix of technical rapids and flat swimming sections suits both first-time rafters and experienced paddlers in the same group.

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Top questions

What are the rapids like on the Boca-Floriston Run?

The run mixes easy rapids through boulder gardens at the start with Class III+ technical sections building toward the finish in Floriston Gorge, separated by long flat swimming areas.

What do I need to bring or wear for this rafting trip?

Wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothes and shoes that strap or tie securely—water shoes, sturdy sandals with heel straps, or tennis shoes are all fine. The operator provides the PFD, helmet, and wetsuits if needed.

Can children go on the Boca-Floriston Run?

Children can join from age 7 and up, as long as they are in good health and meet the weight requirement of no more than 250 pounds.

How long does the Boca-Floriston Run take?

The trip is a half-day adventure lasting 3.5 hours, with transport back to the meeting point included.

What makes this operator different on the Truckee River?

This company was the first to offer commercially guided trips down the Truckee River, bringing unmatched experience to the run.