(530) 283-2225
6162 Hwy. 70
Tobin, CA 95980

After more than five years of negotiation with Pacific Gas & Electric, permission was granted by the California Public Utilities Commision to allow controlled water releases on the Feather River. American Whitewater and many other paddling enthusiast groups had finally conquered the giant who owned the many dams that, since the 1950's, have been practically stopping the water that previously flowed freely. This agreement allowed a specified amount of water to be released from two dammed sections of the Feather River, once a month. Albeit a small amount, it has opened up a flurry of happy boaters to make the treck to one of the only boatable rivers during the summer.

With the Feather flowing at a mere trickle there was little opportunity for whitewater enthusiasts to boat the stretch in front of Tobin Resort. But then, after testing, retesting, and finally getting releases approved, the water was going to be released for the public. On June 1st and 2nd of 2002 the historic release took place. With over two hundred and fifty boaters showing up to be the "first" on the river and the "last" one off, there was little time left to get ready. On the Saturday, the water opened up and everyone threw their boats in and pounced on them. The Cresta Power Dam had opened its water, and would remain open until 4pm. Many people took two trips down the river, some took three, and then the people that really wanted to ride the river even took a fourth.

Since the flows begin by releasing 1600cfs, and then decrease by 200cfs each weekend after that until the base release of 1000cfs is reached, there are varying routes on the Feather. On the Sunday of every weekend there are noticable differences when a boater might have to take a complete opposite of what was taken the weekend before. This variety makes the Feather that much more unique and exhilerating. The "Tobin" section is by far the most challenging. Beginning with a gentle four miles of Class III rapids, and then turning into a thrilling four and a half mile section of Class IV-V rapids. It is the day of choice for those attempting to truly challenge themselves, or hone their navigation skills.

Sporting Class III to Class V rapids, the Feather is a river for a wide variety of people. Not only are novices able to get some challenging paddling off, but so are more advanced boaters. When approaching the County Line rapid during the 1600cfs release, many advanced boaters choose to portage rather than attempting to ride it out. With the vast amount of boulders in the area, it requires the navigator to become more perceptive. Then there is always the Cresta run, where the top put-in is more difficult, but the middle put-in is just perfect for a novice boater. Featuring Class III rapids and a little bit more flat water, it is just what someone that is learning to boat needs.