Spilling from the highlands of Yosemite National Park, California’s Tuolumne River is celebrated as the premier whitewater rafting trip in the state. And with rugged canyon scenery, crystalline water and 18 miles of thundering Class III-IV rapids, this stretch of California whitewater lives up to its reputation as a favorite among river-runners.

For adventure seekers, the Tuolumne River offers nearly non-stop whitewater. Within the first three miles paddlers are challenged by aptly named rapids like Rock Garden, Nemesis and Ram’s Head. Further downstream awaits Clavey Falls, a series of staircase drops that offers rafters the ultimate thrill on the Tuolumne River, as well favorites like Grey’s Grindstone, Thread the Needle, and Hell’s Kitchen.