There are few things in life more tranquil than relaxing in a large inner tube while floating down a lazy river on a hot summer day, enjoying cold beverages and the fresh air. In addition to the water park and resort pool man-made lazy rivers across the state, Nevada has its own wonderful natural lazy river you've just got to experience. Reno's Truckee River is among the most popular tubing sites in the entire state and a fantastic natural lazy river upon which to spend the day with old friends—and perhaps make new ones. Take a look!
The Truckee River, between Lake Tahoe and Reno is the most popular tubing location in Nevada.
This 5-mile float takes about 4 hours and winds through gorgeous scenery: past tall pine trees, through sandy shallows and deeper rocky waters, by tall grasses, under wooden bridges, near sandy beaches and along the bike path.
You can bring your own oversized tube, rent large rafts from the Truckee River Raft Company, or fashion your own flotation device. Many folks have been known to enjoy the lazy river atop full- and queen-sized inflatable camping beds, for example. Other options include inflatable or real kayaks, canoes, or even inflatable rafts.
Make sure to grab an extra tube (or two) for your cooler, charcoal grill, or super soakers.
The scenery is truly stunning.
Don't forget to bring towels, sunscreen (and please reapply every two hours), life-jackets for children or inexperienced swimmers, snacks, drinks, swim shoes, swimsuits, and whatever else you think you may need.
Seriously, what could be more relaxing than this?
Ah, this is the life.
You never know who you may meet! From tourists to locals and young to old, tubing is a fun activity to share with just about anyone.
The "tubable" part of the river ends at Reno's River Ranch Lodge and Restaurant, a fine place for a bite and some drinks. One word of caution, however. Returning to where you started requires setting up a shuttle through local companies which offer tubing tour packages. You can also use a ride-share service or even walk back.
Have you gone tubing down the natural lazy Truckee River? What did you think? Please share your thoughts and experiences below.
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