In this Class 1-2 river segment, there is only one portage at the Railroad Bridge. From east Sparks, it takes the paddler on a relaxing trip into the canyon, as much of this part of the river was channeled in the past by the Corps of Engineers. Close below the railroad bridge, there are a series of Diversion structures for the Lockwood Ditch. Use care in navigating these structures.
Truckee's flow is highly regulated, with most river flow fully allocated through a system of water rights, set by the Truckee River Operating Agreement. Water levels on the Truckee River widely vary by season and the river is navigable depending on the flow rates and your experience level. Make sure to assess water levels before your trip.
View the daily streamflow conditions on the USGS Waterdata website, or use the links below for specific gauge sites along the river.
Visit the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority website to get information on places to stay, eat and recreate.
See the TravelNevada website for articles and things to do in Reno and Sparks.
For park information in the City of Sparks, see the Parks & Recreation website.
There are several agencies that manage the water in the Truckee River. The primary landowner for the river bed within Nevada is the Nevada Division of State Lands, but the water flow itself is managed by the Federal Water Master and Truckee Meadows Water Authority through the Truckee River Operating Agreement.
Download map files for your own use.
Put-in is at the Cottonwood Park, on Spice Island Drive in Sparks. Take-out is at the Lockwood Trailhead Park.
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