Access to the Wild & Scenic Tuolumne River at Lumsden Road was restored on May 14th of this year following several years of closure. American Whitewater has been working tirelessly, alongside numerous partners, to advocate for repair of the road since it washed out during severe winter storms in the winter of 2022-23. The infamous Cherry Creek run is back and the Main Tuolumne is better than it’s ever been!
We want to show immense appreciation to the hardworking staff on the Stanislaus National Forest and the administrative support staff at both the US Forest Service as well as the Federal Highway Administration that have made this repair a reality despite many challenges.
The repair required Congressional intervention at numerous points and was delayed by a novel Department of Government Efficiency review process, as well as several lapses of appropriations to the Federal Agencies responsible for funding, reviewing, and repairing the road. We’re also tremendously grateful for the direct support on this repair from Congressman Tom McClintock and his staff, who have been steadfast advocates for the repair of Lumsden Road and ensuring that the public can enjoy their public lands on the Stanislaus National Forest and beyond.
Our journey to restore access to the Tuolumne River is not over–Ward’s Ferry remains damaged and we continue our work to restore continuous access to the Main Tuolumne. We’re grateful for the support of all of our partners and the boating community who were instrumental in sharing their time, resources, and helping to fund our advocacy on these important access issues.
You can help make this work and other access work like it possible across the country by becoming an American Whitewater member or by making a donation at our support page.
