Rafting Colorado River near Moab: Red rock canyons

Run moderate rapids through red rock canyons cut by the Colorado River

Half-day rafting on the Colorado River near Moab, Utah, with a professional guide, ground transport from town and swimming breaks between rapids. The noon departure includes lunch by the riverside. Morning and afternoon trips come with snacks. Departures run at 9am, noon and 2pm to fit most schedules, and the river stretch covers about 7 miles with moderate rapids suitable for families and all fitness levels.

The experience

The raft launches from a put-in a short drive from Moab, near Fisher Towers, where the landscape opens into red rock canyons carved by the Colorado River. You paddle through moderate rapids with names that carry the region's history, and between the bouncy sections you can swim in the river, take photos and listen as your guide explains the ecology, wildlife and human history of the canyon. The guide is live and speaks English, and children from age 6 are welcome on the trip.

Ground transport picks you up from your departure location in Moab and returns you after the float. The half-day trip runs about 4 hours and covers 7 river miles. If you choose the noon departure, lunch arrives by the riverside. The 9am and 2pm trips include snacks. Inflatable kayaks and paddle boat options are available on request at no extra charge: mention your preference when you book. Coast Guard-approved life jackets and river dry bags for your belongings come with the raft.

A minimum of six people is required for the trip to run. If your group doesn't meet that threshold the day before departure, the operator offers other tour options or a full refund, or you can pay the remaining fares to proceed. All travelers sign a liability release before departure. Children must weigh at least 50 pounds.

What’s included

• Ground transportation from Moab to the river put-in and return.
• professional guide in English.
• Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device and river dry bags.
• lunch on the noon departure or snacks on the 9am and 2pm trips.
• ice water.
• inflatable kayaks or paddle boat options available on request at no charge.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDepartures at 09:00, 12:00 and 14:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Youth (6 to 15 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 40

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 yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by NAVTEC Expeditions

Is this one for you?Departures at 9am, noon and 2pm let you choose the time that fits your schedule in Moab, and ground transport from town means you don't need a car to reach the river. The noon trip adds lunch, so pick that slot if you want a meal included without stopping elsewhere.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (6 to 15 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

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 should I wear and bring for a half-day Colorado River rafting trip?

Sturdy footwear (no flip-flops or crocs), quick-dry clothing, a swimsuit or fast-drying shorts, sunscreen, a hat and a camera are recommended. A spring or fall rain suit is also a good idea. Bring your own reusable water bottle for ice water provided on the raft.

Does the Colorado River rafting trip include lunch?

Lunch by the riverside is included only on the noon departure. The 9am and 2pm trips include snacks instead. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks as well.

What rapids will I encounter on this 7-mile float?

The Colorado River stretch near Fisher Towers features moderate rapids throughout the 7-mile run. Between the rapids you'll have time to swim and take photos, so it's not continuous whitewater. The pace gives you moments to absorb the red rock canyon scenery.

How do I get to the river put-in from Moab?

Ground transport from your departure location in Moab to the river put-in is included, and the operator returns you to town after the trip. It's a short drive from Moab to the launch site near Fisher Towers.