Navigating Love and Rapids: A Tuolumne Love Story

On this Valentine’s Day, we traverse the meandering paths of the Tuolumne River, where the wild heart of California's wilderness sets the stage for a love story as captivating as the river itself. We’re excited to share the tale of Abby Lambert and Jeremy Thomas, whose serendipitous meeting on the river's edge blossomed into a bond as enduring as the flowing waters that brought them together.

It was the spring of 2000 when Abby, on a whim spurred by a friend's last-minute invite, set off on a day trip that would chart a new course for her life. Leading the expedition was Jeremy, a charismatic guide whose leadership and laughter were as clear and compelling as the river itself. "His passion for the outdoors was infectious,” Abby recalls.

Jeremy started guiding as a commercial river guide for ECHO in 1993, and in 1997 started working on the Tuolumne, guiding one to three-day trips. Reflecting on that time, Jeremey adds “Those years in the late 90's were incredibly big water years on the Tuolumne — it was high, fast, technical, scary, and incredibly fun, with flows above 5,000 cfs regularly occurring through the mid to late summer months. That was a special time to be a river guide on the Tuolumne.”

Their shared interests in skiing and kayaking sparked initial conversations, but it was their deeper connection to the river's spirit that truly drew them together. "The best way to learn to kayak is through a friend," Jeremy had mentioned, a statement that resonated with Abby on multiple levels. "When Jeremy said that, I couldn't help but wonder, 'do YOU want to be my friend?'" Abby reflects.

Despite a playful mishap where Abby found herself unexpectedly outside the raft, their connection only deepened. Jeremy's guide mantra, "guides never pull in guests; guests pull in guests," became a memorable part of their story, illustrating the unique blend of independence and teamwork intrinsic to river life.

The trip concluded with Jeremy offering Abby advice on rivers and kayaking schools, yet stopping short of exchanging contact information. It seemed like an end until an email from Jeremy reached Abby a few weeks later, extending an offer for kayak lessons and an invitation to dinner. Unbeknownst to Abby, Jeremy had been clued into her interest by fellow guides, leading to a blossoming relationship that would endure the test of time.

Two decades, two children, several dogs, multiple degrees, and countless adventures later, Abby and Jeremy's life is a testament to the bond formed on the Tuolumne. Their story is not just about the union of two souls but also about the lifestyle they've embraced, one filled with the thrill of rafting, the tranquility of nature, and the warmth of a community that has become family.

“Raft guides are special people. By marrying one, I gained a spouse who can throw together a meal for a large group on a dime, meticulously organize gear, tell ridiculously entertaining (and occasionally embellished) stories, and bring into my life relationships from ECHO that transcend friendship into family,” Abby shares. 

“I am not one for hyperbole or waxing romantically, but it is no exaggeration for me to say that the Tuolumne River has provided the biggest lessons, deepest connections, and most meaningful and influential gifts in my life,” Jeremy reflects. 

We celebrate Abby and Jeremy's story as a testament to the river's enduring power to unite hearts and minds. Their narrative is a vivid reminder of the wild beauty that surrounds us and the vital importance of protecting these natural sanctuaries for the stories yet to be written on their waters. As we share their tale, we're reminded of the deep connections and lasting bonds that our cherished environments can foster, binding us together in adventure, stewardship, and, most importantly, in love.