Moab: Colorado River Whitewater Rafting & Riverside Lunch

Summary

Red rock canyons echo as paddles hit the Colorado River

You’ll paddle through red rock canyons on a guided Colorado River rafting trip from Moab, tackle fun class II rapids with your crew, share stories over a riverside lunch (included), and feel that mix of nerves and laughter only whitewater brings. It’s not just scenery — it’s being right in it.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the red cliffs seemed to lean in over the river — not menacing, just sort of watching us. We met our guide, Jamie, who handed out paddles and cracked a joke about “beginner’s luck” right before we pushed off. The raft felt wobbly at first (I nearly lost my hat to a gust), but then you get into this rhythm with everyone else, like you’re all in on the same secret. The water was colder than I expected when it splashed up — sharp and clean, almost metallic against the heat coming off those rocks.

We floated through the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River, which Jamie said is one of her favorites for class II whitewater. She pointed out some weirdly-shaped rocks that locals have named — I think one was “The King’s Head”? Honestly, I still can’t see it. Rapids came up quick; not scary, but enough to make you grab tight and laugh when someone gets soaked (that was me). There’s this earthy smell when you drift near the banks — sagebrush maybe? Or just river mud warming in the sun.

Lunch happened on a sandy patch under cottonwoods. They’d packed wraps and fruit — nothing fancy but tasted perfect after paddling. We talked about where everyone was from; one couple had driven all night from Denver just for this day trip from Moab. It’s funny how easy it is to talk to strangers when you’ve all just yelled through a rapid together. After that, we loaded back up for more river miles. My arms were tired but in that good way, like you’ve actually done something real.

I didn’t expect to remember so many little things — how quiet it got between rapids or how Jamie could read the water by looking at tiny ripples ahead. Even now, if I close my eyes, I can almost feel that cool spray and hear someone laughing behind me as we spun out of a wave. If you’re thinking about booking a Colorado River whitewater rafting trip near Moab… well, I get why people keep coming back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitewater rafting on Colorado River

• Meet guides and board rafts
• Paddle through class II rapids
• Enjoy scenery of red rock canyons
• Stop for healthy riverside lunch
• Continue rafting and exploring river

Top questions

How difficult is this Colorado River whitewater rafting trip?

This tour covers class II rapids on the Fisher Towers section near Moab — suitable for beginners with moderate fitness.

Is lunch included during the rafting tour?

Yes, a healthy lunch is provided riverside as part of your day trip experience.

Do they provide transportation to and from the river?

Transportation between Moab and the Colorado River launch point is included in your booking.

What should I bring for this day trip?

You need to bring a personal water bottle; all other equipment is supplied by the guides.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health; moderate physical fitness is needed.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated for lunch?

If you have dietary needs, contact them ahead—lunch can be adjusted with notice.

Are service animals allowed on this rafting tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted according to their policy.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off between Moab and the Colorado River launch site, all necessary whitewater rafting equipment plus paddles and life jackets, plenty of drinking water (just bring your own bottle), guidance from licensed local guides throughout every rapid, and a fresh riverside lunch before heading back in the afternoon.