Carson, East Fork
2. Hangman's Bridge to Hwy 395(Markleeville to Gardnerville)
| Difficulty | II+(III) |
| Length | 19.1 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 25 fpm |
| Gauge | E Fk Carson Rv Blw Markleeville Ck Nr Markleeville |
| Flow Rate as of 27 minutes | 862 cfsrunnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | May 12, 2025 |
River Description
The East Fork Carson is a popular and scenic class 2 stretch, but it is more difficult in two respects than the rating can indicate. The water is very cold, so swims could lead to hypothermia. While the rapids are not difficult, they are non-stop in the early miles. The current constantly pushes towards one bank or the other and those banks are undercut cliffs in many areas. Constant manuvering is required to stay in the center of the channel.
People often take two days and camp at Carson River Hot Spring, but one day runs are also feasible.
The run is popular for boaters with whitewater open canoes with float bags and strong whitewater canoeing skills.
There are toilets at Hangman's Bridge put in, at the take out, and one pit toilet about halfway down. Those camping on the river should bring their own toilet systems, though they are not required.
Access: To reach put-in, drive south on highway 89/4 to Markleeville, and continue about a mile past town to Hangman's Bridge, where there is an outhouse. You can find better put-in spots upstream between the highway and river. Even on Friday nights, campsites are often available at a USFS campground down a dirt road before the bridge. Shuttles are readily available by inquiring at stores in Markleeville. River Rats Shuttle Service, a family operation since 1986, is run by Teo and Laura Rocha and they can be reached at 775-901-6492. Paul and Gloria Washam operate a long-time company, Family Shuttle Service at 530-694-2966.
To reach take-out, drive north to highway 88, turn right, and descend into Nevada. You can take a shortcut by turning right on Centerville Lane, and left across a bridge before Dresslerville, although going all the way to Minden and turning right on highway 395 thru Gardnerville works too. On 395 just past the Lahonton Fish Hatchery, turn right onto a dirt road where the highway starts climbing a hill. The BLM parking lot is uphill at the end of the dirt road. This take-o
...River Features
Alternate Put In
If the main put in is too busy, there is a large access next to the river a bit over a half mile upstream.
Hangman Bridge Put In
There is a convenient ramp down to the river on the downstream river right side of the bridge.
Sidewinder
Carson River Hot Spring
The Carson Hot Springs located on river left have been a draw for this overnight trip but reports indicate that a mud flow severely impacted the water supply and the pools.
Washoe Road Take-Out
The take out is on river right at a wide gravel beach. Carry boats up a steep hill to the large parking area. There are toilet facilities at this location.
Ruhenstroth Dam
A 30' tall dam and navigational hazard just downstream of the take-out. Be sure to exit the river before this structure.
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportSo against my better judgment I decided to take five people in a 14 ft raft and overnight this section at 700 CFS and it was less than ideal got stuck in a few spots. Mainly I wanted to put a report in due to the fact that this springs flooding has temporarily made the large hot spring tub unusable.
Rattlesnake drop no longer looks like above map. It has eroded upstream quite a way on river left. Most people are running channel right of center. scout river left
Taken on 4/22/17 @1250cfs showing two channels converging just above main hot springs camp.
New rapid that formed in the high flows of the winter of 2017.
The American Whitewater board meeting was in Reno and a couple of us came in early to explore local rivers including the Carson. We did not run this section but we took out at the put-in for this run wondering what it would be like to enjoy a trip that continued on.