Join a full-day whitewater kayaking trip on the Colorado River near Moab, Utah. Navigate class II/III rapids while surrounded by stunning red rock canyons on this thrilling six-hour adventure.
Join a full-day whitewater kayaking trip on the Colorado River near Moab, Utah. Navigate class II/III rapids while surrounded by stunning red rock canyons on this thrilling six-hour adventure.
Book with Paddle Moab
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
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Operated by Paddle Moab · Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah, is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, where vast red rock formations tower over winding canyons and the mighty Colorado River carves its path through the desert landscape. For adventure seekers craving an adrenaline rush combined with stunning scenery, the Full Day Whitewater Kayaking Trip offers six hours of exhilarating paddling along the Fisher Towers section of the river. This guided excursion navigates class II/III rapids, delivering excitement against a backdrop of vivid sandstone cliffs and sweeping desert vistas.
Departing from Moab’s central meeting point at 44 West 200 North, your journey begins by loading kayaks into vans for a scenic drive along Highway 128, famously called River Road. Arriving at the put-in spot, guides provide a thorough safety briefing and paddling tutorial, ensuring all ages 10 and up feel confident before pushing off into the swirling currents. Whether you choose a single or tandem inflatable kayak, the experience blends technical challenges with moments of serene exploration.
The rapids shift in intensity with seasons and water levels, often reaching class III during spring runoff, providing a heart-pounding adventure suited to a wide range of paddlers. Between rapids, drift past iconic red rock formations that define this part of Utah’s desert terrain — jagged pinnacles, craggy cliffs, and towering fins that have stood for millions of years. Unlike any other river trip in the region, this stretch blends manageable whitewater excitement with intimate canyon views rarely accessible on foot.
A riverside lunch break gives participants a chance to relax on sandy beaches swept by the cool river breeze, surrounded by the vastness of the desert. This pause enhances the connection with the natural world, offering time to soak in the contrasts of desert heat and river chill.
The trip concludes where the shuttle awaits to return you comfortably to Moab, leaving you with vivid memories etched by the powerful currents and expansive wilderness. What sets this trip apart is its balance of adrenaline and environment — it’s not just about conquering rapids, but also about forging a deeper appreciation for the Colorado River’s role in shaping Utah’s landscapes.
With up to eight people per group, expert guides ensure personalized attention, safety, and an engaging narrative about the river’s geological and cultural significance. Moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy water shoes, sun protection, and a spirit of adventure will prepare you for a premier whitewater day in one of America’s most distinctive outdoor settings. Whether you’re a novice or an intermediate paddler, this full-day journey is a compelling way to experience Moab’s iconic river and rock formations without missing a moment of fun.
moderate.
6 hours.
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to paddle for several hours and maneuver through class II/III rapids.
No, beginners are welcome; guides provide safety instruction and paddling tips before launch.
Children aged 10 and older can join the trip with parental supervision.
Yes, participants can choose between single or tandem inflatable kayaks based on preference.
Class II and III rapids, varying with river flow and season, offering both excitement and manageable challenge.
Yes, a riverside lunch break is included to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Essential items include sunscreen, water, towel, hat, sunglasses, and water-friendly footwear.
The Colorado River has played a vital role in shaping Utah’s desert canyon country, with the Fisher Towers region named for its towering rock spires used by early settlers and climbers.
The tour operates with a low-impact ethic to protect river health and minimize disturbance to native wildlife and archaeological sites.
Paddle Moab is a river outfitter located in Moab, Utah, specializing in stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and kayak rentals, guided paddling trips, and combination adventures that pair hiking, biking, or climbing with paddling on the Colorado River. The company offers flexible rental durations, including daily, two-day, three-day, four-day, and five-day rental options, with top-quality inflatable stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and rafts suitable for solo paddlers, families, and groups. Rentals include customizable return times and group-friendly rafts that accommodate up to eight people for relaxed flatwater outings. Guided trips include a four-hour Flatwater Fun Kayaking family excursion led by knowledgeable guides, a Hike/Paddle Combo that features a scenic rim hike, views over the river, a packed lunch, and an afternoon paddle, and a Pedal/Paddle Combo that combines mountain biking on Arches-area trails with guided whitewater rafting. A Kayak Rental & Ride Package provides a convenient shuttle service that transports paddlers up to 12 miles along the river so customers can paddle back to their vehicle. The Climb/Paddle Combo pairs world-class climbing on Moab’s red sandstone with an afternoon of stand-up paddling. Paddle Moab focuses on providing access to iconic canyon scenery, river float experiences on the Colorado River, and opportunities to see Native American rock art and the landscapes around Arches National Park. Equipment quality, multiple rental lengths, shuttle logistics, and guided options make it a practical choice for visitors seeking self-guided paddling or curated adventure days in Moab. Booking options accommodate families, groups, and solo travelers with flexible scheduling and gear.
Book with Paddle Moab