Rafting Moab: Paddle, Red Rock Walls, and a Day on the Colorado
A six-hour paddle through Moab’s red-rock cathedral — approachable rapids, scenic walls, and a local guide to lead the way.
The raft noses into a current that tastes like cold metal and sunlight. Red cliffs tilt inward, stacked like pages from some slow geological novel, and the river threads them with a confidence that feels almost personal — daring you to move faster, daring you to look up. The guide calls commands with calm brevity: paddle, forward, brace. For a moment the world reduces to oars, breath, and the slap of water against the hull. That’s the rhythm of a day on the Colorado near Moab: intimate, steady, and quietly thrilling.
Trail Wisdom
Feet first, shoes on
Wear sturdy water shoes or reef sandals—bare feet on a wet raft are slippery and uncomfortable.
Layer for morning chills
Bring a lightweight insulating layer for the morning launch; you’ll warm up quickly once paddling.
Protect your head and skin
Use a brimmed hat, sunglasses with a retainer, and reef-safe sunscreen to manage sun reflection off the water.
Hydrate before and after
Carry a refillable bottle and drink steadily—the river cools you but doesn’t replace water lost to sun and exertion.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pull over at quiet side channels to see willow and cottonwood groves that attract birds
- •Short detours at sandbars often reveal petroglyph fragments and geologic features away from main rapids
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Mule deer
Conservation Note
River flows are managed by upstream dams like Glen Canyon; visitors should pack out waste, avoid disturbing riparian vegetation, and use biodegradable sunscreen to protect aquatic ecosystems.
The Colorado River corridor near Moab has been a travel and trade route for Native peoples for millennia; more recently the area supported ranching, mining, and served as a gateway to national parks.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: comfortable temperatures, river flows that energize rapids, wildflower viewing
Challenges: cool mornings, variable flows due to spring runoff
Spring brings steady flows and mild air temperatures; mornings can be brisk but afternoons are comfortable for paddling.
summer
Best for: warm-water cooling, long daylight hours, family outings
Challenges: hot desert temperatures on shore, strong sun exposure
Summer offers warm days that make time on the water refreshing, but plan for strong sun and heat when off the raft.
fall
Best for: crisp air and color shifts, stable water conditions, ideal light for photography
Challenges: cooler mornings, shortening daylight
Fall is often the sweet spot — cooler mornings, pleasant afternoons, and dramatic light on the canyon walls.
winter
Best for: fewer crowds, crisp clear days, unique light on red rock
Challenges: cold air and water temps, operator-dependent scheduling
Winter trips run less frequently but reward with solitude and crisp vistas; dress warmly and confirm departures in advance.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)Essential
Usually provided, but essential for safety and required on all rafts.
Water ShoesEssential
Provide traction on wet decks and protect feet when entering and exiting the raft.
Quick-Dry ClothingEssential
Lightweight layers that dry fast and protect from sun and chafing.
Wide-Brim Hat & SunscreenEssential
Protects from intense desert sun reflected off the water.
Common Questions
How intense are the rapids?
This trip runs mostly Class II whitewater—fun, splashy, and suitable for families and first-time rafters while still offering exciting short bursts.
What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers a guided raft, PFDs and safety gear, and a healthy lunch; confirm specifics when booking as operators may include water and transportation from a central meeting point.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No. Guides give instruction on paddling and safety; basic swimming ability is recommended but not required for participation.
How long is the trip?
Trips are approximately six hours total, including on-water time and a lunch break on shore.
Are children allowed?
Most outfitters accept children but have age or minimum weight limits—check with the operator for their policy and any required waivers.
What happens if I fall out of the raft?
Guides brief you on swim position and re-entry techniques; the river sections run are manageable, and guides are trained to assist swimmers and perform rescues if necessary.
What to Pack
Water shoes (grip for wet rafts), quick-dry clothing (comfort on and off the water), reusable water bottle (hydration), sun protection (hat and SPF to prevent burns)
Did You Know
Moab sits between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and the Colorado River carved much of the region’s iconic red-rock canyons over millions of years.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early in spring and fall; confirm meeting time and exact pick-up location; bring cash for tips; expect intermittent cell service
Local Flavor
After the raft, head to downtown Moab for a hearty meal at a local spot like Desert Bistro or grab a pint at Moab Brewery; stroll the small gallery strip for local photography and handcrafted items that reflect the red-rock landscape.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Canyonlands Field (CNY) in Moab; major gateway: Salt Lake City (SLC). Driving from downtown Moab: typically 10–20 minutes. Cell service: intermittent along river corridor. Permits/passes: operator-run trip—no separate river permit required for single-day commercial runs; check guide for seasonal requirements.
Sustainability Note
This river corridor supports rare riparian habitat—pack out all trash, avoid trampling bank vegetation, and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize chemical runoff.