Crystal clear water, verdant tree and plant life, and oodles of history are what you’ll experience when you float the Yuba River in Northern California. Running parallel to Highway 20 between Yuba City and just south of Browns Valley in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and extending approximately 60 miles, the Yuba River offers a unique delight at every turn. Let’s explore tubing in California on a Yuba River float.

If you float straight on through from Hallwood to Shad Pad Park, it would take approximately two to three hours. But you’ll definitely want to make it an entire day and stop along the way to take in the natural beauty.
Flickr James Good
You can start your journey at the North, Middle, or South Forks of the river, each offering distinctive highlights of this Nevada County gem.
Vibrant foliage hues pop out from along both banks of the river, as the seasons change.
Flickr Wayne Hsieh
Inviting natural pools surrounded by craggy boulders like this one are great for a cool swim on a hot day.
Scott Hart/Flickr

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Once you get into the South Yuba River State Park, you’ll see the Bridgeport Covered Bridge.
moonjazz /Flickr
Built back in 1862 and extending 230 feet, it is the longest single-span-covered bridge in the world. It is also just one of the many historic bridges found within the Park.
If you’d like to take a float break, you’ll find numerous trails along the banks, including this one rising gently near the South Fork of the river.
AMaleki/Flickr
If you want to kick your float up a notch, there are some parts the water becomes more active, making it great for those who enjoy white water rafting.
Alisha Vargas/Flickr

Soak in the beauty of the Yuba River:

Images can’t quite capture the beauty and feeling you get when traversing the Yuba River. But the memories to be made here will captivate your senses for years to follow.

Have you ever attempted to float the Yuba River in Northern California? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. Let us know all about it in the comments. If you enjoy tubing the river in Northern California, you’ll likely love these wonderful swimming holes as well.

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More to Explore

Natural Attractions in Northern California

William Suphan | April 27, 2023

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California?

The most incredible natural attractions in Northern California include:

  • Burney Falls. Located in the McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park, these lush waterfalls with bright turquoise waters are quite a sight.
  • Castle Crags State Park. The jagged granite peaks of this rugged mountain range were formed millions of years ago by glaciers.
  • Mount Shasta. This stunning mountain is replete with majestic natural scenery and is a favorite place for hiking, swimming, boating, seeing waterfalls, and more.
  • North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. The rolling meadows and fields here contain vibrant wildflowers like lupines and poppies.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California. 

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California?

The most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California include:

 

  • Trinity Alps Wilderness. This is an area that looks as though no human has ever set foot there. While many do, it has a pristine beauty that can’t be overstated.
  • Point Reyes National Seashore. This is a natural sanctuary with amazing ocean views from stunning oceanside cliffs. Redwood National Park. The trees here are massive giants and are the tallest trees on the planet. Taking a drive through this area will be something to remember. 
  • Lake Tahoe. This is a nationally famous lake and people have been taking trips here for generations. 

Find out more about the most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California. 

What are the most peaceful places in Northern California?

The most peaceful places in Northern California include:

  • Drakes Beach. This is a secluded beach set against limestone cliffs where you can see elephant seals frolicking about.
  • Nisene Marks State Park. There are 30 miles of trails from the sea cliffs into the redwood forests and it’s utterly gorgeous.
  • Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Located in the Klamath Basin near the Oregon border, this vast expanse of wetlands is quite serene.
  • Stillwater Cove Regional Park. This is a 210-acre preserve with forests, meadows, and a secret beach. Come here to get away from it all.

Discover more about the most peaceful places in Northern California. 

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