Moab River Rafting Trips

River Rafting in Moab - Guided Trips

The Colorado River runs southwest across the Colorado Plateau and through the Grand Canyon before finally reaching the Arizona–Nevada border at Lake Mead, where it shifts south to the international border with Mexico.

Along the way as it winds it's way through steep red rock canyons, it runs right through Moab. Rafting the Colorado River near Moab offers some of the world's most incredible views, rapids, and adventures. Rafting adventures along this river, with its limitless scenic views, will be an experience of a lifetime.

Similarly, the Green River, a major tributary of the Colorado, offers its own unique rafting experiences, particularly through the spectacular canyons of Utah. Flowing through areas like the Gates of Lodore and Desolation Canyon, the Green River allows rafters to experience many miles of untouched wilderness. The Green River is a favorite among rafting enthusiasts for it's rich history, stunning canyons and mix of tranquil waters and exciting rapids. TripOutside connects you with vetted Moab rafting outfitters who offer unforgettable rafting trips on both of these rivers. From family-friendly gentle rapids to thrashing class IV, Moab has it all!

How to Choose the Best Guide - Moab Rafting

Selecting the right guide is crucial for an enjoyable rafting adventure in Moab. Look for experienced guides with a deep knowledge of the area, safety certifications, and positive reviews from previous rafters. Ask about their equipment quality and environmental conservation practices.

TripOutside features the absolute best Moab rafting companies guided trips on the Colorado and Green Rivers. Whether you're looking for Moab rafting half day, full day, or multi-day trips, the guides on TripOutside are all four-star rated or above, and are some of the most experienced rafting guides in the state of Utah. We take the guesswork out of booking a Moab rafting trip - all of our outfitters provide top notch service and safety. With the convenience of booking online directly with the local shop, you can ensure a seamless booking experience, while getting the best deals and most flexibility for your trip.

Where to Go Rafting in Moab

Some of the best rafting in Moab can be found super close to town, with easy take-ins and pull-outs. Here are our picks for the best spots.

Close to Town - The Moab Daily

The Moab Daily is a 13-mile section of the Colorado River near Moab. This river section is so-named because of its popularity with kayakers, paddlers, and rafters. It is one of the best Moab rafting trips because it alternates between Class I through III rapids and also includes some flat, calm sections. The scenery is amazing, too - your Moab Daily trip will include views of Fisher Towers, Castle Valley, LaSal Mountains, and Arches National Park. It's both beginner- and family-friendly, so even those with no rafting experience can enjoy this Moab white water rafting adventure.  If it's your first time, we recommend taking a rafting trip with one of our curated TripOutside local expert outfitters!

Best Scenery - Fisher Towers Rafting Moab

Many people come to Moab looking to get it all in one trip: splashy whitewater adventure and views of the area's most iconic rock formation, Fisher Towers. A Fisher Towers rafting trip will start with a drive up Highway 168, which is a National Scenic Byway. You'll put in at Onion Creek - a fun rapid in its own right, then ride a series of awesome rapids: Professor Creek, New Rapid, and Rocky Rapid. The trip closes out with White Rapid, one of the Colorado River's best whitewater experiences.

Best Rapids - Turn it up in Westwater Canyon

Westwater Canyon takes it up a notch with Class III and IV rapids, and this section of river is best done as a guided rafting trip. The unique geological formations and rapids in Westwater Canyon have even been compared to rafting in the Grand Canyon. The challenging nature and amazing scenery make this some of the best white water rafting in Moab. Day trips and multi-day Moab rafting tours are both available for Westwater Canyon.

When to Go Rafting in Moab

Water levels will influence your experience of the river. While deciding when to go rafting in Moab, you can make some seasonal decisions based on the type of white water rafting you want. In short, Moab river rafting trips will be a little more rowdy in the early summer months of May and June, when the snowmelt is filling up the Colorado River. Class II rapids typically increase to a Class III rating in the months of May and June. By the same token, you can go before May or after June for an easier, calmer experience.  Here's what you need to know when you visit Moab in the summer, or any month!

• Summer time is a natural choice for rafting in Moab - it's very hot and sunny in this desert town, so jumping in the water for a swim is delightful! That said, summer tends to bring crowds, and the heat during the middle of the day can be oppressive
• Many people choose to travel to Moab in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall because of the milder temperatures.