Carson City, Dayton become whitewater destination

Carson City and Dayton officially became a Nevada whitewater destination Saturday when officials opened the area's first rafting and kayaking facilities on a stretch of the Carson River Aquatic Trail.

The Morgan Mill Road access point in Carson City now offers a launch ramp, paved parking, picnic tables and restroom. The launch site provides access to the 9.3-mile float on the Carson River through Class II and Class III whitewater downstream to Santa Maria Ranch River Park take-out area in Dayton.

"These facilities establish Carson City as a whitewater rafting and kayaking destination and expand the quality of life and sense of well-being that outdoor adventure and natural beauty provide," said Carson City Supervisor Shelly Aldean, who helped cut the ribbon on the new boat launch. "Whether you go rafting or kayaking, just stroll along the river or come for a picnic, these beautiful new facilities make it much easier to enjoy one of Carson City's greatest natural assets."

The Morgan Mill put-in area is just upstream of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management offices at Deer Run and Morgan Mill roads, south of U.S. Highway 50 East. The take-out area at Santa Maria Ranch subdivision is accessible from Highway 50 on the west end of Dayton.