Truckee River links Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, carving a path through the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin. It powers cities, irrigates farms, and offers recreation—from rafting and kayaking to fishing and riverside trails.
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | CaliforniaNevada |
| County | Washoe CountyNevada County |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 39.3275 |
| Longitude | -119.9432 |
| Maps |
Truckee River originates from the northeast corner of Lake Tahoe, flowing roughly 130 miles northwest across the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin. It passes through Truckee, California, and Reno, Nevada, emerging into pyramid-shaped Pyramid Lake. The river has been a vital waterway for centuries, shaping ecosystems and cultures before serving modern purposes: hydropower, municipal supplies, irrigation, and recreation. Along its course, visitors find a mix of wild trout fisheries, flatwater kayaking, urban trails, and historic crossings. Key access points are often day-use parks, riverfront parks in cities, and designated fishing areas—the specific facilities depend on the segment and local management.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM
