Cataract Canyon Whitewater Rafting Day Trip from Moab

Summary

Colorado River Rapids Adventure in Canyonlands National Park

If you want a real taste of adventure near Moab, this Cataract Canyon rafting trip delivers—big rapids, wild scenery, and guides who know every bend in the river. It’s not just about thrills; it’s about seeing Canyonlands from a whole new angle.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Moab always feels a bit electric, especially when you know you’re about to hit the river. We met up just off Main Street, grabbed a quick coffee from the corner shop (the one with the faded red awning), and piled into the van with our guide, Jamie. She’s been running this stretch for years—her stories about past trips made the 45-minute drive to Potash fly by.

Once we reached the riverbank, there was this earthy smell—wet sand, sagebrush, and sunscreen mixing together. After a quick safety talk (and double-checking my lifejacket for the third time), we pushed off. The first stretch was calm, almost glassy. You could see dragonflies skimming the surface and hear nothing but the soft slap of water against the raft.

But then things picked up. The rapids here—thirty of them, all told—aren’t for show. Some are loud enough to drown out your own shout. I remember gripping the rope tight as we dropped into one of those Class V waves; Jamie just grinned and yelled instructions over the roar. Between rapids, there were moments to catch your breath and look up at those canyon walls—layers of red rock that seem to glow when the sun hits just right.

Lunch was simple but hit the spot: sandwiches, chips, cold watermelon slices straight from the cooler. We swapped stories with folks from Denver and Salt Lake while letting our shirts dry in the sun. By late afternoon, everyone had that mix of tired arms and wide grins that only comes from a real day on the river.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cataract Canyon Rafting Adventure

• Van ride to river put-in at Potash
• Safety briefing and lifejacket fitting
• Raft 100-mile Cataract Canyon section

Top questions

How difficult is this Cataract Canyon rafting trip?

This trip covers Class IV and V rapids—so it’s best if you’re comfortable with some physical activity and don’t mind getting soaked! Guides are experienced and keep safety first.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring sturdy shoes (they’ll get wet), quick-dry clothes, sunscreen, a hat, lip balm, and a reusable water bottle. A waterproof camera’s handy if you have one.

Is lunch included?

Yep! Lunch is provided riverside along with ice water—just bring your own bottle to refill.

Are there age or weight limits?

Minimum age is 8 years old and at least 50 lbs (23 kg). All weights must be provided at booking for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes an expert guide who knows every rapid by name, lunch on the riverbank, ice water (bring your own bottle), all rafting gear like life jackets and dry bags, plus transport from Moab to Potash and back. Just bring your sense of adventure—and maybe an extra pair of socks.