Truckee River Trail - Boca to Mayberry
Whitewater Kayaking & Rafting on the Truckee River
The Boca to Verdi section of the Truckee River is by far the most challenging. While we’ve outlined some of the most significant considerations below, we advise hiring a guide with a solid understanding of local conditions and hazards. The details below are not an adequate guide for first-time explorers of these Class III and IV waters.
At the Fleish Diversion Dam aka Headhunter Dam (Mile 36.58), follow signage to portage left to avoid a 12-14 foot drop. From here, you’ll enter solid Class III rapids. At Mile 36.93, the river splits at Deadman’s Turn and you’ll need to go right around a big rock to avoid getting trapped in this steep, rocky section.
Next is the Steamboat aka Stateline Canal Diversion Dam at Mile 37.67. It’s composed of hazardous broken rocks, concrete, and rebar. Scout and easily portage on river right. Below the dam are several challenging but fun 3-4 Class III/IV drops.
At Mile 39.74 is the Verdi Dam, with a series of four 4-foot drops with wooden kickers at 45-degree angles. Most people portage on the left via a short canal. Be careful reentering the Truckee River below the dam. On river left is thick willow that’s difficult to extract yourself from if stuck. From here to Crystal Peak Park is Class II. The take out is on river right, just before the old 40 bridge.
Take a break at Crystal Peak Park or continue on downriver to the Washoe Highland Dam (Mile 44.51), AKA Gorilla Falls, a large concrete structure with boulders and collected trees on the left and a water canal on the right. DO NOT run this dam on river left. Portage on the left or run river right after scouting. It is not advisable below 500 or above 4000. This section is primarily Class II above Gorilla Falls and III+ below it.
There’s a small river put in on river left at River Bend, near where old Highway 80 comes closest to the river. Note that about a half mile above the Fleish Power House (Mile 38.92) is an unnamed rapid you’ll want to avoid. The steady Class III waters ahead of you may look tempting, but be sure to aim for the cheater chute river right to avoid getting stuck in a bramble of driftwood and large boulders.
From here, you’ll continue on towards Mayberry Park and a relatively easier section of the Truckee.
These portages and features are marked on the Truckee River Recreation and Non Motorized Recreation maps.
