Moab: Colorado River Rafting Fisher Towers Morning Trip

Summary

Colorado River morning rafting by Fisher Towers with small rapids and film history

You’ll float down the Colorado River near Moab past Fisher Towers, with a local guide sharing stories about movie sets and local legends. Expect gentle class 1-2 rapids (sometimes class 3 if water’s high), plenty of scenery, and moments of pure quiet between splashes. Water, cups, all fees included—just bring yourself and maybe an extra dry shirt.

What’s the experience like?

We tumbled out of the van just as the sun started warming up the red cliffs around Fisher Towers. I could smell that mix of river water and desert dust — it’s weirdly comforting, honestly. Our guide, Jamie, handed out life jackets and made a joke about “movie star” territory (apparently John Wayne filmed here), but I was mostly just trying to get my straps untangled. The Colorado River looked calmer than I expected, kind of glassy except for these little riffles where you could hear water slapping rocks. I remember thinking: this is going to be easy — but then Jamie grinned and promised a couple “surprise splashes.”

The first rapid came quicker than I thought — nothing wild, just enough to bounce us around and get my shorts wet. There was this kid in front who kept shrieking every time we hit a wave; his mom was laughing so hard she nearly dropped her paddle. Jamie pointed out a rock formation used in some old westerns (I think he said The Lone Ranger too?), but honestly I was distracted by how the light changed on the cliffs every few minutes. It’s quieter out there than you’d expect — sometimes all you hear is the oars dipping or someone’s nervous giggle when we hit another patch of whitewater.

I didn’t try paddling — our guide did all the rowing unless you ask ahead for a paddleboat. Which suited me fine; I just wanted to drift and watch that crazy landscape go by. There were moments when everything felt really slow, like time stretched out between rapids, and then suddenly we’d be bouncing again. At one point Jamie poured water into cups for everyone (bring your own bottle though), and we floated past some cottonwoods that smelled sweet in the sun. I still think about that stretch where nobody talked for a minute or two — just river sounds and those big silent towers above us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning rafting at Fisher Towers

• Arrive at Fisher Towers
• Board raft with guide
• Enjoy scenic river views
• Navigate small rapids
• Option to paddle (advance notice)
• Complete half-day rafting trip

Top questions

How long does the Fisher Towers rafting trip take?

This is a half-day morning trip on the Colorado River near Moab.

Are there big rapids on this section?

The Fisher Towers section has mostly small class 1-2 rapids; occasionally there may be a class 3 depending on water levels.

Do I have to paddle myself?

No—your guide will do all the rowing unless you request a paddleboat at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this rafting trip suitable for kids?

Youth under 50 lbs cannot participate due to safety regulations; otherwise it’s suitable for most fitness levels.

What should I bring on the trip?

Please bring your own water bottle; cups and water are provided on board.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included—only water and cups are provided.

Can pregnant travelers join?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Where does the tour start?

The rafting trip starts near Moab at Fisher Towers on the Colorado River.

What’s included

Your morning includes all taxes, fees, handling charges, plus a professional local guide who rows while you relax (unless you’ve requested to paddle). Cups and fresh water are provided along the way—just remember to bring your own bottle for refills before heading back after your half-day adventure.