by: Elizabeth Sedway, TahoeKidsGuide.com

A favorite summertime activity for families, when visiting the Lake Tahoe area is rafting down the Truckee River.  While there are many places to raft the Truckee, perhaps the most popular portion is a 5 mile stretch from Tahoe City to the River Ranch.

There are two companies in Tahoe City that rent rafts, and transport you back to your starting point after your trip down the river. (Mountain Air: (888) 584-Raft and Truckee River Raft Co.:  (530) 583-0123) Each of these companies pick you up, at the end your 5 mile float, somewhere near the River Ranch. Generally speaking, it takes 2 to 3 hours to leisurely float down this portion of the river.

Both rental companies offer rafts, life vests, paddles and free shuttle ride back up river. Both are open between 8:30a and 3:30p.  The prices charged by these companies is also the same: Adults (13 years and older) are $35 each.  Children (6 to 12 years old) are $30 each.  Children 5 years old and younger are $5 each. 

Both companies include the use of commercial rafts in various sizes, depending upon the size of your group.  In addition to the use of a raft and paddles for your group, each person will be provided with a life vest. Your group will not be accompanied by a guide.  At no additional charge, each company offers a shuttle service back to your point of departure.

You can use your own raft to float down this portion of the Truckee River too.  If you do this, leave a car near River Ranch, so you have transportation back to where you started your rafting trip.