Truckee River: Boca to Floriston Whitewater Rafting Tour

Summary

Whitewater thrills near Truckee with swimming spots and forest views

You’ll paddle past historic Boca, splash through Class III rapids with a local guide who knows every bend of the Truckee River, then drift along calm pools under Sierra pines. Swim if you dare—it’s chilly—or just soak up mountain sun before tackling Floriston Gorge together. Expect laughs, maybe a little adrenaline, and memories that stick around longer than your wet sneakers.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous standing by the old Boca site, clutching my paddle and eyeing the river. The morning air smelled like pine needles and sunscreen, and our guide, Jamie—born and raised in Truckee—cracked a joke about “beginner’s luck” that made everyone laugh (even me). There was this weird mix of excitement and “what am I doing?” as we pushed off into the first stretch of the Truckee River. If you’re looking for a day trip from Truckee or even coming from Tahoe, this whitewater rafting tour is right there—no endless bus rides or anything.

The first rapids were honestly easier than I’d expected. Jamie kept calling out instructions over the sound of water slapping rocks, and every so often he’d point out these boulder gardens where trout like to hide. Between rapids, we floated through long flat stretches that felt almost lazy—someone jumped in for a swim (I chickened out; that water is cold even in July). The sun came out strong by late morning, glittering off the river so much I had to squint. There was this one moment where it went quiet except for birds up in the trees—I still think about that calm before we hit the bigger stuff.

Floriston Gorge kind of snuck up on us. Suddenly everything got louder—the water, our voices—and my heart was pounding as we dropped into those Class III waves. I definitely swallowed some river (don’t open your mouth when you scream), but it was worth it. At the end, everyone looked at each other like “did we just do that?” Jamie grinned and said we’d earned our lunch back in town. So yeah, if you want an honest-to-goodness day trip on the Truckee River with real whitewater but also some time to just float and look around…this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day Truckee River rafting adventure

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

Top questions

How long does the Boca to Floriston whitewater rafting tour take?

This is a half-day tour starting near historic Boca and finishing at Floriston Gorge.

Is this rafting trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, it starts with easy rapids and flat sections ideal for first-timers before building up to more challenging Class III rapids.

What should I wear for rafting on the Truckee River?

Wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothes plus shoes that strap or tie securely—no flip-flops or bare feet allowed.

Are wetsuits provided if it's cold?

Yes, wetsuits and splash jackets are included during cold weather trips.

Is transportation back to the meeting place included?

Yes, return transportation after rafting is included in your tour.

What’s the minimum age for this whitewater rafting trip?

The minimum age is 7 years old.

Where does the tour start?

The trip begins at Boca near Truckee, California.

Do I need previous rafting experience?

No prior experience is required; guides provide instruction throughout.

Are there swimming opportunities during the tour?

Yes, there are long flat pools between rapids where you can swim if you wish.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety gear like PFDs and helmets, wetsuits or splash jackets if it’s chilly out, plus transportation back to where you started once you’ve finished paddling downriver together.