About This Route
Tuolumne River whitewater sections from Tuolumne Meadows to Hetch Hetchy demand advanced skills with Class III-V runs like Clavey Falls. Popular day trips from Potholes to Ward's Ferry; check closures for debris. NPS requires PFDs when gage >4 feet at Pohono. Shuttle via dirt roads; multi-day options with permits.
Safety Considerations/h2>p>High flows trap in undercut rocks; mandatory scouts. 45°F water hypothermia threat. Poison sumac, flash floods from thunderstorms. Grizzly-free but black bears; hang food. NPS vessel inspections implied by condition rule./p>h3>Essential Gear
Jackson Antix kayak, Immersion Research PFD, Fluid helmet. Astral boat shoes, NRS drybag. PLB for emergencies.
Emergency Tips
Portage hazards; eddy rescues. Signal via fire if remote. Tuolumne Station nearest help.