Hands down one of the best family-friendly adventures in North America, or possibly on the planet. A bold statement? This place deserves that much. Multiple generations from age 5 to 85 will enjoy this rafting trip - as though Desolation Canyon was made for just such a thing.
Beginning with a spectacular flight from Moab over the Book Cliffs of eastern Utah, hidden deep upon the high shelves of the Tavaputs Plateau, is the story of a beauty betrayed by her name. Desolation Canyon, authored for centuries by the plunging snowmelt of the Green River; its delicate pages kept and preserved among a landscape that otherwise appears desolate and barren. Indeed, the world has judged the Book Cliffs by their cover and failed to find Desolation Canyon! It's the perfect disguise, but we're not keeping the secret to ourselves.
More than 60 fun-filled class II-III rapids interspersed over the course of a 5-day journey keeps the party moving. Water fights, swim breaks, smaller boats and inflatable kayaks get you closer to the water than other trips, like Grand Canyon or Cataract Canyon. Did we mention the water here is warm? Broad sandy beaches, cottonwood trees, dark-sky stars, rich human history, and plenty of wildlife all contribute to a magical experience mile after mile and night after night. You'll only wish it had lasted longer.
Your guides in Desolation Canyon will navigate you safely through, cook delicious riverside meals that satisfy and delight, lead a hike with a spring in their step, help you pitch a tent if it looks like rain, encourage you to stay up late under the stars, and help make a craft with the kiddos.
Desolation Canyon is virtually made for catering to all the fun a five year old wants, everything thrilling the teenagers want, and the mellow relaxation the parents and grandparents want. Family Magic happens on rafting trips because time is spent, experiences are shared, and memories are made together in a way that rarely happens on any other kind of vacation.
Besides a spectacular geological display, Desolation Canyon also displays a bounty of unique human history. Ever heard of Butch Cassidy and the Hole in the Wall Gang? Desolation Canyon was one of many "holes in the wall" where they eluded lawmen in southern Utah. Evidence of the settlers, moonshiners, and ranchers that aided them remain in the canyon as tokens of an era gone by.
New high-speed, custom rafts now allow you to journey through the Colorado River’s legendary 100-mile Cataract Canyon in just 2 days–perfect for those with busy schedules yearning for a quick, but refreshing dose of adventure.
Experience an all-inclusive 4 day rafting journey through Utah's legendary Cataract Canyon just outside of Moab Utah. Exciting whitewater combined with the indescribable scenery of Canyonlands National Park make this the ideal river trip.
Relish the ideal time of day for the perfect off-road adventure. Enjoy some light snacks as the desert sun paints the evening sky.
Free Insiders Guide to Moab, UTWhat to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Our Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.
Expedition GuideWhat to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Not unlike your own personal Jiminy Cricket, (minus the worries of the little guy getting smooshed) the Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.
