Run eleven rapids and float 17.6 miles down Westwater Canyon on a full-day Colorado River trip from Moab. Expect sustained Class III–IV whitewater, riverside lunch, and guided shuttles between Westwater Ranger Station and Cisco.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold Colorado River current nudges the bow as your guide calls commands, and the canyon walls close in — slabby sandstone streaked with gray and orange. Morning light slides down narrow chutes while the river alternates between long, glassy floats and a loud run of waves. Over 17.6 miles from Westwater Ranger Station to the Cisco take-out, you’ll hit eleven named rapids, including Little Dolores, Skull and Last Chance, and finish with a mellow float back to shore.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and upper-body strength recommended; ability to follow commands and swim in moving water expected
Wildlife
History
Westwater Canyon’s cliffs expose Triassic through Cretaceous sedimentary layers; the corridor later saw limited mining and railroad surveying in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Conservation
This is a high-use river corridor; stick to carry-in/carry-out rules, avoid disturbing nesting raptors, and use biodegradable sunscreen to minimize impacts.
Reserve your spot on the Moab, UT ~ Westwater Canyon Full Day Rafting Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Know the rapid names
Learn the sequence (Little Dolores → Skull → Last Chance) so you can respond quickly to guide calls during consecutive drops.
Footwear that stays on
Wear neoprene booties or secure sandals — loose shoes come off in Class IV waves and make swimming difficult.
Protect from the sun
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat that clips to your PFD, and polarized sunglasses with a retention strap.
Hydration & fitness
Bring a hydration bladder or bottle and be prepared for a full day of paddling—this trip favors those with strong core and upper-body endurance.
Secure river shoes (neoprene booties or sport sandals)
Keeps feet protected and won’t float off during rapids.
summer
Lightweight insulated layer (fleece or windshirt)
Canyon mornings and post-swim wind can be unexpectedly cold.
spring
Sunglasses with retention strap
Protects eyes and stays attached during waves.
summer
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps keys, camera, and warm layer dry during wet sections.