Kayaking Moab: Colorado River Class I-II Rapids

Paddle Class I-II rapids through Castle Valley's red rock walls

A full-day kayaking trip on the Colorado River near Moab puts you in an inflatable kayak to navigate Class I-II rapids and calm stretches through Castle Valley, with a guide, beachside lunch and all safety gear provided. No experience needed, but you'll need to swim. The route passes sculpted bluffs and spires as you work downstream for seven hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak the Colorado River in Castle Valley

• Meet guide and receive kayak briefing
• Paddle through Castle Valley on Colorado River
• Navigate Class I-II rapids
• Enjoy scenic bluffs and rock formations
• Take deli-style lunch break
• Continue paddling downstream
• Return to starting point

The experience

You launch into an inflatable kayak, called a ducky, and spend the day paddling the Colorado River through one of Moab's most scenic stretches. The route takes you through Castle Valley, where the water alternates between calm pools and splashy Class I-II rapids. A guide stays with the group to help you navigate the current, offer instruction on paddle technique, and point out the bluffs and rock sculptures that line the canyon. The physical demand is real: you're operating the kayak the whole time, not watching from a boat, so expect a solid workout.

Lunch happens on a beach along the river: a deli-style meal served partway through the day so you can refuel before the afternoon paddle. All the equipment comes with you: a self-bailing inflatable kayak, paddle, Coast Guard-certified personal flotation device and helmet. The guide handles the safety orientation and river navigation instruction at the start, so you'll know what to expect before you push off. Swimming ability is required, though no prior kayaking experience is.

What’s included

• Safety orientation and river navigation instruction.
• beachside deli-style lunch on the river.
• experienced, in-house-trained and certified river guide.
• self-bailing inflatable kayak, paddle, Coast Guard-certified personal flotation device and helmet.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 13 Mar 2027

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (11 to 98 years) · Under 11: can't be booked

GroupUp to 32

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and leads the group through instruction and navigation, so you follow along comfortably even if you've never paddled before. Bring moderate fitness and swimming ability. The seven-hour day on the water is a genuine physical commitment.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What are the rapids like on the Colorado River near Moab?

The Colorado River through Castle Valley features Class I-II rapids, which are manageable for beginners but still give you an active paddle. You'll also encounter calm stretches, so the day mixes splashy sections with smoother water where you can catch your breath.

How long does a full-day kayaking trip on the Colorado River take?

The trip runs seven hours total, which includes paddling time, the beachside lunch break and the safety orientation at the start. Plan for a full morning and afternoon on the water.

What gear do I get for kayaking the Colorado River?

You receive a self-bailing inflatable kayak, paddle, Coast Guard-certified personal flotation device and helmet. The guide provides instruction on how to use each piece before you launch.

Do I need kayaking experience to paddle the Colorado River near Moab?

No prior kayaking experience is required. The guide teaches you navigation and paddle technique as part of the safety orientation, and they stay with the group throughout the day to assist as needed. You do need to be comfortable swimming.