Moab: Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River

Moab, Utah boasts some of the most exhilarating whitewater rafting in the West. Adventurers can navigate the Colorado River’s class II/III rapids, surrounded by the region’s iconic red rock canyons. Led by experienced guides, this 6-hour tour promises an unforgettable outdoor experience filled with breathtaking scenery and invigorating thrills. From scenic drives to wildlife sightings, this whitewater excursion offers a well-rounded adventure that’s not to be missed.

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Key Points

Set out on a 6-hour whitewater rafting adventure on the Colorado River in Moab, Utah, navigating class II/III rapids in the Fisher Towers section.
Experience the towering red rock canyons and scenic landscape formed over millions of years, with opportunities to spot wildlife like ducks, geese, and bighorn sheep.
Enjoy a 45-minute riverside lunch break during the 2.5-hour rafting experience, which is part of a small-group tour limited to 12 participants.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, all necessary equipment, and experienced guides who provide expert guidance throughout the adventure.
Customers have consistently praised the organization, wildlife experiences, transportation, and overall value for money, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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Overview of the Experience

Although located in the heart of the arid Utah desert, Moab offers a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the mighty Colorado River.

Participants can expect a 6-hour experience, including 2.5 hours of rafting through class II/III rapids at the Fisher Towers section. The small-group tour is limited to 12 people, providing an intimate and personalized outing.

Highlights include a scenic drive along Highway 128, wildlife viewing, and a riverside lunch break.

With professional guides, transportation, and all necessary equipment provided, this whitewater excursion promises an exhilarating and memorable outdoor adventure in Moab’s stunning red rock landscape.

Looking for more options in Moab? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Breakdown

The whitewater rafting experience in Moab begins with a 30-minute van ride from Paddle Moab – Raft, Kayak, SUP, and Canyon Co. to the put-in point on the Colorado River.

The whitewater rafting adventure commences with a 30-minute van ride to the Colorado River launch site.

Over the next 2.5 hours, guests will navigate class II/III rapids through the stunning Fisher Towers.

After the initial thrill, there’s a 45-minute lunch break on a riverside beach.

Then, it’s back on the water for 2 more hours of rafting.

The 30-minute van ride returns adventurers to the starting point, concluding the 6-hour whitewater excursion.

Highlights of the Adventure

One of the highlights of the whitewater rafting adventure in Moab is the opportunity to raft through towering red rock canyons carved over millions of years. Thrill-seekers can experience invigorating class II/III rapids, offering an adrenaline-filled ride. Along the journey, adventurers may spot diverse wildlife, including ducks, geese, herons, eagles, beaver, and bighorn sheep. The scenic drive along Highway 128 to the starting point further enhances the experience, providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

| Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Towering Red Rock Canyons | Carved over millions of years |

| Whitewater Rapids | Invigorating class II/III rapids |

| Wildlife Viewing | Diverse species such as ducks, geese, and bighorn sheep |

| Scenic Drive | Beautiful views along Highway 128 |

Inclusion Details

The whitewater rafting adventure in Moab includes several key offerings that enhance the overall experience.

Participants can expect a professional guide to lead the way through the thrilling rapids. All necessary equipment, including rafts, life jackets, and dry bags, is provided.

Getting to and from the Colorado River is taken care of with the included transportation. A healthy riverside lunch is served during the 45-minute break.

For convenience, hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included. With these valuable inclusions, adventurers can fully enjoy the exhilarating whitewater experience.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Reviewers have praised the overall whitewater rafting experience in Moab, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating based on 21 reviews.

Highlights from the feedback include:

Exceptional organization and knowledgeable guides
Positive wildlife viewing experiences
Noted as a highlight of travelers’ trips

The transportation received a solid 4.5/5 rating, while the value for money was rated 4.4/5.

Customers appreciated the overall experience, commending the professional guides, scenic surroundings, and the thrilling whitewater adventure as a must-do activity during their time in Moab.

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Scenic Drive to the Starting Point

As travelers make their way to the Paddle Moab – Raft, Kayak, SUP, and Canyon Co. starting location, they are treated to a scenic 30-minute drive along Highway 128, which winds through the dramatic red rock canyons and mesas of the region. This scenic route offers stunning views of the towering sandstone formations that characterize the Moab landscape.

| Scene | Description |

| — | — |

| Towering Red Rocks | Massive sandstone cliffs and buttes rise up on either side of the road. |

| Winding River | The Colorado River snakes through the canyons, providing a striking contrast to the arid landscape. |

| Desert Vegetation | Scrubby juniper and pinyon pine trees dot the slopes, adding pops of green to the otherwise russet palette. |

Invigorating Whitewater Rapids

Once participants board the rafts, they quickly find themselves navigating through a series of invigorating whitewater rapids on the Colorado River.

The rushing water crashes against the raft, sending adrenaline-filled splashes into the air. As the raft charges through the class II/III rapids, participants experience:

The exhilarating feeling of conquering each rapid.
The stunning red rock canyons that tower overhead.
The thrill of working together as a team to navigate the river.

The whitewater rafting adventure offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Moab’s natural wonders.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Beyond the exhilarating rapids, the whitewater rafting adventure offers ample opportunities to spot an array of wildlife along the Colorado River.

Rafters may encounter ducks, geese, and herons gracefully gliding across the water’s surface. With a keen eye, they might even catch a glimpse of a majestic bald eagle soaring high above the towering red rock canyons.

On the riverbanks, the keen-eyed may spot a busy beaver or a sure-footed bighorn sheep making its way across the rugged terrain.

This wildlife viewing adds an extra layer of wonder to the Moab rafting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Rafting Activity?

There is a minimum age requirement of 8 years old for the whitewater rafting activity. Children under the age of 8 are not permitted to participate for safety reasons.

Can I Bring My Own Life Jacket or Are They Provided?

All necessary equipment, including life jackets, is provided by the tour operator. Participants are not allowed to bring their own life jackets for safety reasons. The life jackets are properly fitted and maintained by the experienced guides.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Lunch to a More Substantial Meal?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the included riverside lunch to a more substantial meal. Participants can choose a deluxe lunch pack for an additional fee.

Can I Bring My Camera on the Rafting Trip?

Yes, you can bring your camera on the rafting trip. The tour provides dry bags to keep your valuables safe and secure while navigating the rapids. Just be mindful of the water and potential splashing.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate in the Activity?

While swimming skills are not required, participants should be comfortable in and around water. The rafting company provides life jackets and safety training to ensure all guests can safely enjoy the whitewater experience.

The Sum Up

Moab’s whitewater rafting adventure on the Colorado River offers an exhilarating and unforgettable outdoor experience. Navigating class II/III rapids, surrounded by stunning red rock canyons, is sure to leave participants breathless. With professional guides, a scenic drive, wildlife sightings, and a riverside lunch, this tour provides the perfect balance of excitement and scenic beauty for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.