Westwater Canyon compresses the Colorado River into a mile-after-mile thrill ride of Class III–IV whitewater and billion-year-old rock. This full-day guided run pairs adrenaline with geology, wildlife, and a sandy beach lunch for a classic Moab river day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
By midmorning the Colorado River is awake, pushing hard against the oar blades and daring your raft to commit. Red walls give way to the dark, ancient “Black Rocks” of Westwater Canyon—polished schist that squeezes the current into glossy tongues and surging waves. Guides call commands, the raft squares up, and the river makes its move. Funnel Falls kicks first, clean and fast, then Sock-It-To-Me lands a cold punch. Downstream, Skull waits in shadow, its eddy lines and pour-over still reminding boaters why this canyon is the desert’s compact heavyweight.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable spending a full day outdoors with bursts of paddling and bracing through waves; able to sit and balance in a moving raft.
Wildlife
History
Fremont and Ute peoples left petroglyphs along this corridor; later, miners and ranchers built cabins and ferries that still leave traces near the river.
Conservation
Westwater is permit-controlled to limit impact. Follow Leave No Trace, use provided groover systems, and respect wildlife viewing distances.
Reserve your spot on the Moab Full-Day White Water Rafting Tour in Westwater Canyon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Watch the water levels
Flows change daily; higher water means faster, colder hits and less time to react—dress warmer and expect bigger waves.
Hold the T-grip
Keep a firm hand on the T-grip of your paddle to avoid accidental knocks when dropping into Funnel Falls and Skull.
Sun and splash protection
Wear quick-dry layers, a UPF long sleeve, and secure sunglasses with a retainer; cotton stays cold when wet.
Hydrate and snack early
Start drinking water before the rapids and keep sipping through the day; a salty snack helps ward off fatigue.
Personal water bottle (1–2 liters)
Refill throughout the day to stay ahead of sun and exertion.
Secure river sandals or closed-toe water shoes
Good traction and heel straps keep you planted in the raft and on rocky shorelines.
UPF sun hoodie or long-sleeve shirt and brimmed hat
Strong desert sun reflects off water; coverage beats reapplying sunscreen.
summer
Neoprene top or wetsuit shorts
Useful during higher, colder spring flows to stay warm between rapids.
spring