Rio Chama Multi-Day Rafting Adventure in Utah Canyons
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days, 2 nights
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness with the ability to paddle for several hours daily and handle camping overnight outdoors.
Overview
Take a 3-day rafting trip down Utah’s Rio Chama River, combining thrilling rapids with peaceful desert camping and dramatic canyon views. Discover why this less-traveled waterway is a unique spot for river adventurers.
Rio Chama Multi-Day Rafting ~ 3 Days & 2 Nights
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a serene 3-day adventure along the stunning Rio Chama River, where you can camp under the stars or in a hammock. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, exciting Class II-III rapids, and delicious meals while exploring the canyon. This unforgettable journey combines relaxation with the thrill of nature's beauty.
Get ready for a nice relaxing 3-day float down the amazing Rio Chama River.
About
Camp in a tent, hammock, or sleep under the stars by the river. There will be plenty of time to check out the canyon while on and off of the river. Hanging around camp there will be time to explore or relax under the countless stars at night. We will begin the trip from El Vado Ranch on day one, spending two nights in the canyon before taking out near the Abiquiu Reservoir. All meals from lunch on day one through lunch on day three will be provided.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Our day 1 launch point is at El Vado Ranch at 11:00 am, a beautiful spot with a nice old western feel. After pushing off we will float down the Rio Chama River and go through Aragon Rapid a Class II to start the day. Around mid day we will stop for a nice riverside lunch before continuing down river to our first camp. After setting up camp, while our guides prepare dinner sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and sunset before the stars come out.
Day 2:
Wake up to a warm cup of coffee or tea while breakfast is being prepared. After breakfast, we will continue down river stopping for some short side hikes to explore the area before getting to camp 2. Once at camp feel free to explore some more of the area around camp.
Day 3:
Start the final day with some hearty breakfast and hot coffee or tea before pushing off for our last day on the water. We will travel through some whitewater full of class II-III rapids as we push into the headwaters of Abiquiu upper Reservoir where we exit the canyon and arrive at the take-out. We will load our vehicle and head back to our meeting point to drop you off at your vehicles.
Adventure Tips
Pack a durable dry bag
Keep your essentials safe and dry during the river’s Class II-III rapids for comfort and convenience.
Bring a hammock for camp comfort
Hammocks offer a cozy night’s sleep suspended off the rocky ground along the riverbanks.
Stay hydrated under the desert sun
The high desert sun can be intense—carry plenty of water and use sun protection every day.
Practice basic paddling strokes beforehand
Comfort with fundamental strokes makes navigating Class II-III rapids smoother and more enjoyable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Osprey
History
This stretch of the Rio Chama flows through land historically used by Native American tribes and early settlers who navigated its waters for trade.
Conservation
Trip operators follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on the fragile desert canyon ecosystem and preserve water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Moab
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Essential for safety during all river sections, especially in rapids.
Waterproof dry bags
Protects clothing, electronics, and valuables from river spray and splashes.
Lightweight camping hammock
Comfortable alternative to tents for sleeping by the river.
spring;summer;fall specific
Sun protection gear
Hat, SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses to prevent sunburn while on the water.
spring;summer;fall specific