East Fork Carson River: Hangmans Run

Type of Trip: Beginner Whitewater Rafting

This Section Contains Class I-II+ Meaning beginner rapids, family friendly, and perfect for first-time rafters looking for a beautiful section of wild river to enjoy. What this river lacks in turbulent whitewater, it makes up in high desert scenery as this section is a true wilderness run. Our favorite for wilderness scenery.

As our river trip begins, beautiful pine forests and spectacular snow-capped peaks surround us. The Carson River is swift and exciting, flowing continuously through the first nine miles of a high desert mountain landscape. The second portion of the trip meanders through a changing landscape of enchanting desert scenery. Stretches of quiet river sections encourage you to breathe in the fresh air and soak in the sun.

13’ and 14’ self-bailing river rafts are used on the East Fork of the Carson River. On the East Fork of the American River our rafts can take up to 6 guests + a guide.

During peak spring melt, the East Fork of the Carson River rises, allowing us the opportunity to raft its Gorges River Canyon and wilderness bliss. We have availability to run this river 7 days a week when the river flows are suitable.

This river is only available for a limited time frame each year. Due to its sparse availability jumping on it during May is a must and highly encouraged by all of us at Tahoe Whitewater Tours.

The East Fork of the Carson River is a naturally flowing river originating in the high alpine wilderness zones of Alpine County, just west of Markleeville, California. Snow accumulated on the high peaks during winter months melts in the Spring, flowing down from the high alpine elevation and traveling east into the Nevada dessert.

As a naturally flowing river, there are no dams restricting the river’s flow. As winter transitions into spring, the east fork of the Carson River rises with snowmelt. When there is ample water flowing on this section we take that opportunity to raft this gorgeous section.

If your schedule allows we highly encourage you to hop on this naturally flowing river as it has limited availability during the year.

No! Shoes are required that will not come off, such as strap-on sandals, water shoes, booties, and old tennis shoes.

Flip-flops or slip-on shoes are not allowed for rafting. If you go for an unintentional swim, you will lose your flip-flops immediately. If you end up on shore or in a random place, you need to have good footwear to get back to the rafts or to be able to walk along the shoreline.

If you guide did a wonderful job and you had a fun experience tipping is an acceptable form of showing appreciation to your guide at the end of the tour.

Personal items should be locked in your personal vehicle throughout the day. Wallets, Cell phones, and Car Keys can also be kept in our river office while out for your rafting adventure!