From Moab: Canyonlands 4×4 Drive and Colorado River Rafting

From Moab, thrill-seekers can embark on an unforgettable adventure that combines the rugged terrain of Canyonlands National Park with the serene beauty of the Colorado River. This exhilarating experience promises to leave participants in awe of the region’s stunning natural wonders. Buckle up for an off-road journey along the Shafer Trail, followed by a refreshing river rafting excursion that showcases the majestic Fisher Towers. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Points

• Scenic 4×4 drive through Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, offering sweeping vistas of red rock formations and deep canyons.
• Thrilling navigation of the Shafer Trail, with its narrow, switchbacked route along the canyon rim and heart-pounding climbs and descents.
• Ample opportunities for stunning photography of the park’s towering rock formations, unique geological features, and expansive vistas.
• Riverside picnic lunch on the banks of the Colorado River, followed by insights into the area’s geology and history.
• Rafting the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River, offering an exhilarating yet safe experience with opportunities to spot wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Island in the Sky

The tour begins with a scenic drive through Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district.

Passengers explore this elevated mesa, taking in sweeping vistas of red rock formations and deep canyons.

Along the White Rim Trail, the 4×4 vehicle navigates narrow switchbacks of the Shafer Trail, offering breathtaking viewpoints.

Throughout the drive, the guide shares insights about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.

Frequent photo stops allow travelers to capture the stunning landscapes.

This off-road adventure showcases the raw, untamed beauty of Canyonlands’ most iconic region.

Navigating the Shafer Trail

Navigating the Shafer Trail presents a thrilling challenge for the 4×4 vehicle and its passengers. This narrow, switchbacked route winds along the rim of the canyon, offering breathtaking views but requiring expert driving skills.

The guide carefully maneuvers the vehicle, guiding it through tight turns and over uneven terrain. Passengers hold on tight as the 4×4 climbs and descends the steep inclines, navigating the precarious path.

Despite the heart-pounding experience, the journey offers ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the rugged landscape. The sense of accomplishment at the end of this thrilling segment is palpable.

Capturing Scenic Wonders

Numerous photo opportunities abound throughout the 4×4 journey, allowing passengers to capture the area’s scenic wonders.

Highlights include:

• Towering rock formations in hues of red, orange, and yellow, showcasing the dramatic landscape sculpted by time and the elements.

• Sweeping vistas of the expansive Canyonlands National Park, with its deep canyons, rugged mesas, and distant mountain ranges.

• Encounters with unique geological features, such as ancient fossil beds and intriguing rock formations that inspire wonder and curiosity about the Earth’s past.

Guides ensure ample time for guests to snap memorable photos, enabling them to preserve the beauty of this remarkable region.

Riverside Picnic Lunch

After exploring the rugged Canyonlands landscape by 4×4, the tour group stops for a delightful riverside picnic lunch.

A tasty buffet, including sandwiches, fresh fruit, and refreshing lemonade, awaits them on the banks of the Colorado River.

As they relax and refuel, they take in the stunning surroundings – towering canyon walls, the glistening river, and the vast, arid terrain.

The guides provide insight into the geology and history of the area, enhancing the experience.

The guides’ insights into the area’s geology and history enrich the overall experience for the tour group.

Recharged, the group prepares to continue their adventure with the upcoming Colorado River rafting segment.

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Rafting the Fisher Towers

As the 4×4 tour through Canyonlands concludes, the group embarks on the next leg of their adventure – rafting the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River.

The class I and II rapids provide an exhilarating yet safe experience for adventurers of all skill levels.

The rugged Fisher Towers backdrop sets the scene, with:

• Towering sandstone spires and pinnacles lining the river’s edge

• Rushing whitewater challenging participants to navigate through the twists and turns

• Opportunities to spot wildlife, like bighorn sheep, along the riverbanks

After the rafting excursion, the group can relax on the beach before returning to Moab.

Relaxing on the Beach

Following the exhilarating rafting adventure on the Colorado River, the group has the opportunity to unwind on the beach.

They can relax on the soft sand, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and enjoy the scenic views. The guides provide water and light refreshments, allowing the participants to recharge before the return trip to Moab.

This downtime allows everyone to reflect on the day’s thrilling experiences and share stories with their fellow adventurers.

The peaceful beach setting provides a perfect conclusion to the Canyonlands 4×4 drive and Colorado River rafting tour.

Inclusions and Highlights

The tour package includes a comprehensive range of activities and services. Guests can expect:

A comprehensive tour package offering a variety of activities and services for guests to enjoy.

• A guided 4×4 drive through the scenic Canyonlands National Park, navigating the iconic White Rim Trail and Shafer Trail switchbacks.

• A leisurely picnic lunch along the banks of the Colorado River, with a selection of delectable buffet items and refreshing drinks.

• An exhilarating rafting experience on the Fisher Towers section, featuring class I and II rapids, followed by a relaxing beach break.

The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, national park entrance fees, and the expertise of an experienced guide, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable adventure.

Important Considerations

Guests should be aware of several important considerations when booking this tour. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, though a minimum number of travelers is required.

Appropriate footwear and clothing are essential, as sandals and flip-flops aren’t permitted. Children must weigh at least 50 pounds to wear life jackets during the rafting portion.

Cameras and electronics are brought onto the river at one’s own risk, though waterproof bags are available. These guidelines help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a buffet lunch with water and lemonade, and additional snacks or beverages are not permitted.

How Often Do Bathroom Breaks Occur During the 9-Hour Tour?

The tour includes bathroom breaks as needed, with a dedicated lunch stop providing an opportunity for a restroom break. Specific timing of breaks may vary based on the group’s needs and the tour’s itinerary.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Rafting Portion?

The minimum age requirement for the rafting portion is that children must weigh at least 50 pounds (23 kilograms) to wear the life jackets. This ensures their safety on the river’s class I and II rapids.

Can I Switch Between the 4×4 and Rafting Activities During the Tour?

No, participants can’t switch between the 4×4 and rafting activities during the tour. The itinerary is structured, and each activity is completed sequentially as part of the full-day experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Rafting Portion of the Tour?

There’s no option to extend the rafting portion. The tour has a fixed itinerary, and the rafting lasts until the end of the experience before returning to Moab. Extending the rafting isn’t possible within the tour’s structure.

Final Words

This adventure from Moab offers an exhilarating exploration of Canyonlands National Park‘s stunning landscapes. Participants navigate the rugged Shafer Trail, witness breathtaking red rock formations, and enjoy a riverside picnic lunch. The thrilling rafting experience through Class I and II rapids, surrounded by the majestic Fisher Towers, creates unforgettable memories in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: