River Running Trips in Moab, Utah

Moab’s stunning red-rock landscapes, winding rivers, and thrilling rapids make it one of the best destinations for river running in the Southwest. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled whitewater trip or a relaxing float down the Colorado River, Moab offers a range of river-running options. Here’s your guide to exploring Moab’s waters, including the best-guided services, trip options, and tour companies to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Moab River Running

The Greatest River Trips in the World

  1. Daily River Trips

If you’re short on time or new to river running, a daily trip along the Colorado River’s “Moab Daily” section is perfect. This stretch features a mix of gentle rapids and calm waters, making it ideal for families, beginners, or those looking for a quick adventure. 

  • Highlights: Mild rapids (Class I and II), family-friendly, scenic red rock views.
  • Best for: Beginners, families, and those looking for a shorter river experience.
Moab river running
  1. Fisher Towers to Rocky Rapid

This full-day trip includes the beautiful and rugged stretch of river between Fisher Towers and Rocky Rapid. Featuring both tranquil sections and thrilling rapids. 

  • Highlights: Class II and III rapids, stunning views of Fisher Towers and sandstone formations, opportunities to spot local wildlife.
  • Best for: Intermediate adventurers looking for a full day on the water with moderate rapids.
  1. Cataract Canyon Multi-Day Trips

Cataract Canyon is the ultimate Moab river adventure, offering multi-day excursions that take you deep into the heart of Canyonlands National Park. These trips are a thrilling mix of whitewater rapids (up to Class V during peak flow) and serene float sections where you can soak up the canyon’s spectacular beauty. Spanning 3 to 6 days, Cataract Canyon trips include camping along the river, stargazing, and exploring ancient rock formations.

  • Highlights: Class III to V rapids, camping under the stars, breathtaking views of Canyonlands, optional side hikes.
  • Best for: Experienced adventurers, thrill-seekers, and those interested in an immersive backcountry experience.
  1. Westwater Canyon

Often referred to as “the Little Grand Canyon,” Westwater Canyon offers a one- to two-day trip with some of the most intense rapids in the area (Class III and IV). This section combines thrilling whitewater with stunning geological formations and historical sites along the way. 

  • Highlights: Class III and IV rapids, dramatic canyon scenery, shorter yet intense experience.

  1. Top River Running Companies in Moab

    1. Moab Adventure Center
      Moab Adventure Center offers a variety of river trips on the Colorado River, including daily trips, Fisher Towers, and multi-day excursions through Cataract Canyon. Known for excellent service and experienced guides, they cater to all ages and experience levels.

    2. Adrift Adventures
      Specializing in both daily and multi-day trips, Adrift Adventures is known for its expert guides and diverse options. Their Cataract Canyon tours are particularly popular, featuring multiple days of adventure, comfortable camping, and meals along the river.

    3. Canyon Voyages Adventure Co.
      Canyon Voyages provides river running trips for beginners to advanced adventurers, including scenic daily floats, Westwater Canyon, and family-friendly trips. Their experienced team focuses on safety, making them a top choice for families and first-timers.

river running Moab
Moab River Running
Moab River Rafting

D. Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
Mild to Wild Rafting offers both gentle and high-adrenaline river experiences, from Moab Daily floats to Cataract Canyon’s intense whitewater. They provide options to customize the trip length and intensity, making it suitable for all skill levels.

E. NAVTEC Expeditions
As one of Moab’s longest-running adventure companies, NAVTEC Expeditions is known for its expert-led trips and knowledge of the area’s geology and history. They offer guided tours through Cataract Canyon, daily floats, and exciting Westwater Canyon expeditions.

F. Red River Adventures
Red River Adventures provides full-day and half-day trips on the Colorado River, as well as trips in Westwater and Cataract Canyons. They are highly rated for their fun, engaging guides and offer options to fit every adventure level.

Moab River Running

H. The River Running Company Western
The River Running Company Western offers expertly guided trips along the Colorado River, catering to adventurers of all ages and experience levels. Their offerings include serene daily floats, thrilling whitewater in Cataract Canyon, and custom multi-day tours. Known for their attentive customer service, knowledgeable guides, and commitment to safety, they provide a memorable and enriching river experience for individuals and families alike.

    • Specialty: Custom multi-day tours and family-friendly adventures
    • Best For: Those looking for a balance of excitement and relaxation while exploring Moab’s stunning landscapes.

G. Worldwide River Expeditions
Worldwide River Expeditions is a highly experienced outfitter known for providing thrilling whitewater and scenic trips on the Colorado River. Offering both daily and multi-day adventures, Worldwide specializes in personalized service and guides who are experts in the geology and history of the area. Their Westwater Canyon trips are especially popular, combining Class III and IV rapids with breathtaking canyon views, making it perfect for those seeking an intense, scenic experience.

    • Specialty: Westwater Canyon and Cataract Canyon trips, family-friendly options, knowledgeable guides
    • Best For: Adventure seekers and families looking for a customizable, memorable river experience.
Moab River Rafting