Utah Whitewater River Trips

Utah is the place for serious whitewater adventure. Guided trips are available on the popular river sections described below, and on other waters. Talk to one of our guides for specific details.

Fisher Towers (Colorado River) - This 13-mile section is ideal for first-timers, families or groups. It is commonly done as a half or full day trip and allows boaters to experience mild rapids - most range from Class I to Class II, but you may encounter a Class III during some seasons.

Westwater Canyon (Colorado River) - Many people make Westwater their first choice for a short, challenging whitewater adventure. The canyon offers 11 rapids that range in difficulty up to Class IV, along a 17-mile stretch that can be floated in 1 or 2 days. Two-day trips allow visitors to camp and explore the countryside. Westwater Canyon contains the oldest exposed rock in Utah, the pre-cambrian "black rock," which forms the walls of a 200-foot-deep inner canyon. Sheer walls of rust-colored Wingate sandstone tower above the inner canyon. Historic features within the canyon include the miner's cabin and the outlaw cave.

Cataract Canyon (Colorado River) - Cataract offers rapids ranging in difficulty up to Class V - some of the most thrilling whitewater in the world. The entire trip covers approximately 112 miles. However, the most intense whitewater is found in Cataract Canyon, an 18-mile stretch that contains 26 substantial rapids. Trips range from 1-6 days.

Desolation Canyon (Green River) - This 84 mile trip offers outstanding scenery, interesting geologic formations, ancient Indian rock art, historic pioneer homesteads, and Class II/III whitewater rapids. This is usually offered as a relaxing trip running from 5 to 7 days.

San Juan River - This river is ideal for kayaks and paddle rafts and gives people the chance to participate by paddling. The river flow is fast and the trip usually runs 3-4 days. Rapids are mild but "sand waves" and roller coaster-type whitewater keep it exciting. Prehistoric Anasazi rock art and ruins are common in this area and most rafters take time to explore some of the sites.