Tuolumne River Rafting Trips

BEFORE YOU GO

Prepare For Your Trip

Knowing what to wear, what to bring, and what's provided makes trip planning smooth and easy. Find all the essential details for a comfortable and well-prepared experience on the river.

Guest Involvement

During normal water flows, All-Outdoors runs paddle-rafts on the Tuolumne multi-day trips and oar-paddle combination rafts on 1-Day trips. In a paddle-raft, each guest and a professional guide have a paddle and navigate the river, working as a coordinated team. In an oar-paddle combination raft a guide helps steer the boat with oars while simultaneously calling commands to paddlers. The oar-paddle combination rafts can move at a quicker pace during the calmer sections which is helpful on 1-Day trips. In high-water situations, we may opt to run oar-paddle combination rafts on all trips. All guests should be able to swim.

THE RIVER

The Rapids:

Technical boulder slaloms will make your heart pound

Steep, technical rapids characterize the Tuolumne. The action starts immediately as you discover seemingly non-existent passageways through rock-strewn corridors like Rock Garden and Nemesis. Rapids comprised of tight chutes, tall drops and immense boulders follow until we reach the highlight of the trip– Class IV + Clavey Falls. The middle section of the river mellows, allowing time for reflection before entering the final challenging miles. You'll forge a strong team with your fellow paddlers–and have an incredible time testing your skills on this river.

The River Scenery:

Rugged, steep, stunning Sierra foothills

Whether you are young in years or just in heart, the Tuolumne canyon will uncover your inner adventurer. A National Wild and Scenic River, the Tuolumne's deep canyon, pristine side streams, and crystal-clear water inspire awe and gratitude. You'll want to enjoy the cooling swimming holes and waterfalls found in beautiful tributary streams, take advantage of every relaxing beach, and explore the many intricacies of this impressive wilderness area. Only two small 20-person commercial trips are allowed in the canyon per day, so you will always feel like one of the few privileged humans in this wonderful place.

TYPICAL RAFTING SEASON

April - early September*

The Tuolumne's flows are dam controlled, which makes river levels more predictable during the summer season. However, early-season snow melt pushes the river to very high levels that are best for experienced rafters. At these flows, the Tuolumne becomes one of California 's most powerful whitewater runs. As the season continues, water levels recede and become appropriate for both experienced rafters and very adventurous beginners.

* Season length, river flows, and days of water releases may vary. For this year's flow predictions and real-time water levels go to the River Flows page.

MEALS ON THE RIVER

Freshly prepared riverside feasts

On our 1-Day trips, we provide a gourmet riverside picnic consisting of a "build-your-own" deli-style lunch that includes all the fixings you’ll need to assemble the perfect sandwich. Fresh fruit, chips, and a sweet treat help round out your meal before you get back on the water.

On Multi-Day trips, our meals are freshly prepared with a selection of healthy ingredients. Dinner will typically begin with beverages and hors d'oeuvres in camp while your guides prepare your hearty main entrees and a tasty dessert. When you wake up the next morning you have your choice of cowboy coffee or tea while your guides prepare a filling continental or classic camp breakfast.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and encourage you to let us know your needs when you make your reservation or complete your online registration.

GROUP RAFTING TRIPS

Make it a group adventure to remember. Whether you’re organizing a weekend with friends or planning a company-wide retreat, we specialize in hosting exciting, well-organized rafting trips for groups of all sizes. On the Tuolumne River we can accommodate groups as large as 40 people.

What Kind of Trip Are You Planning?

Choose the option that best fits your group:

• A fun day on the river rafting with friends
• A memorable family rafting trip
• A family reunion that everyone will talk about
• A corporate off-site or executive retreat
• An adventurous birthday party trip
• A one-of-a-kind class reunion
• A unique bachelorette party idea
• A bachelor party with a splash

RAFTING SPECIALS

Looking for a deal? We offer several ways to save on your rafting trip - whether you’re rafting with kids, planning a group rafting trip, or just hunting for the best value. We also have exclusive offers for returning rafters!

Start here to find the best deal for your next California whitewater adventure. Please note that only one discount can be applied per person and must be mentioned at the time of reservation.

Rafting Specials

RIVER FAQs

Is the Tuolumne River good for first-time rafters?

Yes - for the right type of first-time rafter. The Tuolumne River is well suited for active, adventurous go-getters seeking faster-paced whitewater and a more immersive river experience. During the summer months, conditions are generally more approachable for novice rafters. In spring, when the river can be flowing higher than normal, prior whitewater experience is recommended, making early-season trips a better fit for guests who have rafted before.

What ages can raft the Tuolumne River?

Age minimums vary by season and river conditions. During the summer months, the Tuolumne River is typically appropriate for ages 12 and up who are active, comfortable in the water, and ready for full days on the river. In spring, when flows can be higher and the whitewater more demanding, trips are best suited for guests 15 and older, making early-season rafting a better fit for older teens and adults.

When is the Tuolumne River best for rafting?

Water levels on the Tuolumne River are influenced by snowpack and upstream reservoir releases. The rafting season typically runs from April through Labor Day in early September, with conditions changing as the season progresses. Spring and early summer offer more powerful, faster-moving whitewater, while mid to late summer brings more accessible and regular flows.

The best time to raft the Tuolumne depends on the type of experience you’re looking for and who’s in your group, including age and prior rafting background. Spring trips deliver a more intense, high-energy run, while summer trips are generally more approachable, but still exciting, making them a great fit for a wider range of rafters.

Why raft the Tuolumne River when visiting Yosemite National Park?

A whitewater rafting trip on the Tuolumne River, which originates in Yosemite National Park, extends the Yosemite experience beyond the park’s busy roads and trails into a quiet wilderness canyon few visitors ever see. Our meeting location is just 25 minutes from the park entrance gate, making it an easy pairing. While Yosemite’s iconic vistas and hiking routes showcase its famous scenery, the Tuolumne offers a more secluded perspective of the region. Day trips deliver a full dose of exciting whitewater, while overnight trips provide more time to explore and unwind in the canyon.

Why should I choose a multi-day Tuolumne River trip over a 1-Day adventure?

There’s nothing wrong with choosing a 1-Day Tuolumne River rafting trip. It delivers a full day of fast-paced, intricate whitewater and a taste of the secluded canyon environment. Extending the experience over 2 or 3 days, however, allows the trip to unfold at a more natural pace. With more time on the river, guests can enjoy short side hikes and hidden swimming holes, relax at camp, and enjoy unhurried meals. Multi-day trips offer a deeper, more immersive way to experience the Tuolumne, turning a great day on the river into a true wilderness journey.

What is the difference between the Tuolumne River and Cherry Creek (Upper Tuolumne)?

Cherry Creek is a tributary of the Tuolumne River and is synonymous with the world-famous Class V rafting run, sometimes referred to as the Upper Tuolumne. The take-out for Cherry Creek trips serves as the put-in for the main Tuolumne River section.

Flowing through the same scenic wilderness canyon, the main Tuolumne blends exciting Class IV+ whitewater with calmer stretches, while Cherry Creek features more technically demanding Class V rapids. The two sections can be combined into a continuous multi-day rafting trip - beginning with the intense rapids of Cherry Creek and transitioning into the longer, more varied stretch of whitewater on the Tuolumne River. This pairing offers a rare opportunity to experience the full progression of the river through a remote canyon setting.

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