Overview
As you float along the Green River through the dramatic corridors of Desolation Canyon, you'll feel as though you've been transported back in time to a place when dinosaurs roamed the earth and the winding river was carving its path through the mighty mountains. You can almost sense it taking place right before your eyes - the landscape remains that pristine. A spectacular scenic flight from Moab, Utah will be your access to this remote rafting adventure, where at times, the splash of the oars hitting the water will be the only sound you hear. As you marvel at the rugged landscape and geologic history, more than 40 million years in the making, you'll get a glimpse of what life was like for Ancient Native American civilizations and later the famous outlaws of the West, including Butch Cassidy. A few short hikes will show you artifacts left from Fremont tribes, including petroglyph panels etched into the cliffs, and abandoned outlaw hideouts. You'll have plenty of opportunity to jump in and float the lazy stretches of river and also test your whitewater rafting skills on the more than 60 fun-filled class I-III rapids. This trip is just the right mix of wonder, relaxation and excitement.
Highlights
- Spectacular scenic flight
- Outlaw hideouts
- Ancient dinosaur habitats
- Native American petroglyphs
- Over 60 moderate rapids
- 2-person inflatable kayaks available
- Comfortable summer water temperatures
Location
Utah
Itinerary
DAY 1 » You will soar over the canyons of the Green River, on a magnificent morning flight, finally landing atop a desert plateau. Enjoy a short van ride or a breathtaking hike to the river's edge. The rafts will launch onto a smooth stretch of the Green River, where you can sit back and soak up the sun or take a dip in the green waters. Once you reach camp, make sure to explore the area, relax or play a game surrounded by the majesty of Utah's Desolation Canyon while your guides prepare a mouthwatering camp dinner.
DAY 2 » The next morning, you will be greeted by a hearty breakfast before hiking a short distance to 1,000-year-old Fremont Native American petroglyphs or maybe an old moonshiner's hideout. Around midday, relish in a delectable riverside buffet lunch. Aboard your oar boat, the river will pick up speed as your guide pilots you through several thrilling Green River rapids. You and your partner may even choose to traverse the rapids on your own in an inflatable kayak.
DAY 3 » Hike to a landmark homestead rich in folklore and outlaw history. Experience some of the biggest whitewater on the Green River as you run Wire Fence and Three Fords rapids. Drift into the scenic Gray Canyon, as you leave Desolation Canyon, traversing 40 million years of geologic history in a matter of minutes. Revel in another night camping under a blanket of stars scattered across the southern Utah sky.
DAYS 4 & 5 » After a peaceful night, the final morning in the canyon will rest in your memory. You'll find amazement in the grandeur of the sublime landscape you have escaped to as shadows play across the towering cliffs of the Green River. Enjoy the last of many exemplary breakfasts before setting off to traverse the last stretches of whitewater. There will be time for an occasional water fight and the calm stretches will offer ample opportunity for swimming, but the journey will wind to an end. After lunch, you'll board the bus with your new friends as you celebrate a successful passage on the one-hour bus ride back to Moab, Utah (arriving approximately 2:30 PM).
Includes
- SCENIC FLIGHT: Airport transfer & flight from Moab, Utah to the river
- RAFTING: Class I-III whitewater rafting (rapids depend on water levels)
- HIKING: Short walks to longer, more difficult hikes (all optional)
- CAMPING: Cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant bag
- MEALS: All meals are prepared for you between departure and return.
- TRANSFERS: Transportation from meeting location to the river and return transfer to Moab