Frequently Asked Questions

We take safety seriously and provide quality gear, GPS guidance, and detailed instructions to help you have a great experience. That said, this is a natural river with moving water. It’s an adventure float, not a lazy river ride. Floaters must be strong swimmers, physically active, and ready to navigate changing conditions. Follow our guidance, wear your gear, and stay alert, and you’ll be set for a safe and memorable float!

The float trip covers approximately 4 miles along the scenic Truckee River. The start point is Tom Cooke Trail and the end point is Idlewild Park.

The float typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, but the exact duration can vary based on river flow conditions and how you choose to float. Some people paddle and move quickly, while others take their time and enjoy the ride. It's your adventure!

Yes. All floaters must be at least 8 years old. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and must wear a helmet and life jacket.

Idlewild Park (at the corner of Spoon and Latimore Drive). Look for us under the Blue Canopies. Here's a Google Maps link!

There are plenty of parking spots within Idlewild Park, right near the Welcome Center. The Welcome Center is located at the corner of Spoon and Latimore Streets. Here's the Google Maps Link!

We will drop you in the river at Tom Cooke Trailhead. Our floaters are expected to meet us at our Welcome Center in Idlewild Park and our shuttle will transport them to our launch location. If you missed the shuttle at the Welcome Center, contact us, and we will advise how to meet the rest of the group at the river drop-in location.

The float ends right back at the Welcome Center! There is a river exit location right behind our blue canopies. All you need to do is to exit the river, walk up a very short trail, and return your gear right back at the Welcome Center.

No problem! Our team at the Welcome Center will safely store your belongings and have them ready for you when you return your gear.

While alcohol is permitted by the city, we don’t recommend bringing it on the float. This is an adventure float, and staying alert and focused on the river is key to having a safe and fun experience. Instead, enjoy a drink before or after your float. We’ve partnered with local bars and restaurants to hook you up with great deals!

Absolutely! Our float tubes come with connectors so your group can float together as one unit.

Restrooms are available at Mayberry Park and Chrissie Caughlin Park, both of which are accessible locations during your float.

Yes, solo floaters are welcome! You won’t be alone on the river as there will be others floating during your time slot.

We love pets, but for everyone’s safety, dogs are not allowed on Float Reno trips.

All equipment must be returned at the Welcome Center at Idlewild Park (corner of Spoon and Latimore Streets) within 3 hours of your booking time. The typical float time is 1.5 to 2 hrs, so there is plenty of time to enjoy your float and have enough time to return the gear. Any items not returned within the time period will be consider lost and automatically charged a replacement fee to the credit card that was used to secure the rentals.

We totally get that things can happen on the river — but all rented gear must be returned at the end of your float. If any item is lost, damaged beyond use, or not returned, we’ll automatically charge the replacement cost to the credit card on file during checkout.

Items that fall under this policy include:

• River Tubes

• Helmets

• Life vests

• Paddles

• Dry bags for phones

• Float coolers
  

Each item is part of what makes your float safe and enjoyable, so we ask that you treat the gear with care. If you're unsure how to secure your items during the float, our team is happy to help before you head out.

Thanks for floating responsibly!

If you cancel more than 72 hours before your booked float time, you’ll receive a full refund. If you cancel within 24-72 hours of your booking time, you can either reschedule your trip or receive a gift card to use another time. Cancellations made within 24 hours are considered a no-show and are not eligible for a refund. We appreciate your understanding as we prepare in advance for your arrival.

Yes. All guests must sign a waiver. You’ll receive them electronically after booking. Completing them in advance speeds up check-in. All minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.

The app keeps your group connected with GPS navigation to track each other, group messaging, photo and video sharing, and access to discounts with our Riverwalk food and drink partners.

The section of the Truckee River we float is typically rated Class II to III, with a combination of some rapids, natural obstacles, and relaxing sections. Certain areas will require focus and maneuvering. It’s an adventure float, best suited for good swimmers who are in good physical shape. That said, there are also plenty of chill stretches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. River depth varies from just a few inches in shallow areas to over 6 feet in deeper sections, depending on flow conditions.

The Truckee River typically runs between 55–65°F in the summer, which can feel cool at first, but it’s part of the experience! With the sun shining down, it quickly feels refreshing rather than cold, especially on hot Reno days. Most floaters find the cool water a welcome break from the heat.

If you get stuck, first try to stay calm and use your paddle or hands to gently push off rocks or guide yourself back into the current. Often, a little effort and repositioning is all it takes to get moving again. If you're truly stuck or need help, you can call our team for assistance. But we ask that you try to work through it first, as this is a self guided float. Our contact number is in your confirmation email and website. It is 775-235-2486.

If you need help during your float, stay calm and assess the situation. Many challenges, like getting briefly stuck or needing to reposition can be handled with a bit of effort.

But if you’re in a bind or unsure what to do, don’t hesitate to call our team. Our number is in your confirmation email and on the website. It is 775-235-2486. We’re here to support you. In an emergency, always call 911.