Overview
This 120-mile expedition takes you through the renowned Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park. It offers some of the wildest, most exciting whitewater in the country during the months of May, June, and early July, when the spring run-off fills the canyon's watercourse with raging torrents.
From July to October, the river calms itself with lower water but is by no means placid. Later summer offers pristine sandbars and warm water.
Out Cataract expeditions float you past the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers through the challenging rapids of Cataract Canyon in the midst of Canyonlands.
Whether you are looking at the 3, 4, or 5-day Cataract Canyon adventure, you will experience some unforgettable memories. All three options take you through the heart of Canyonlands National Park, via the Colorado River. We run Cataract Canyon either on our motorized J-Rig or via one of our 18-foot oar rafts.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Professional guide
National Park fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Snacks
Lunch
Dinner
Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Breakfast
Beverages
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Return Transportation (extra charges will apply)
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Departure Point: Adrift Adventures
Address: 378 North Main St.
Moab, Utah
84532
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
What to expect
Day 1 Meet the crew
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Adrift Adventures
Meet at Adrift Adventures at the Moab office, 378 N. Main at 7:15 a.m. with a 7:30 a.m. departure. Leave your vehicle in our parking lot and be transported to the river put-in via Adrift Adventures. Your first day will cover the flat waters of the Colorado River. There will be a few hikes ranging from five minutes to half an hour, to beak up the day. You will visit ancient Anasazi ruins, pictographs, and petroglyphs over a thousand years in age. The camp is located on the banks of the river; you’re welcome to visit our library on the river or partake in horseshoes, volleyball, or a little backgammon
Day 2 Drifter
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Dead Horse Point State Park
Your second day has you within the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Views of Dead Horse Point State Park and the Indian ruins of Lathrop Canyon will amaze you. You drift all day long, enjoying the sights. There is ample time for off-river hiking and points of interest. Your first two days are quiet, as you float through and marvel at the wind-sculpted sandstone cliffs, with their spires and pinnacles, mesas, and amphitheaters. You will camp on the banks of the river again
Day 3 Confluence day
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Green River
An early morning hike over the loop with boats awaiting you on the other side to float to the Confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers. Below this point awaits the heart of Cataract Canyon! You will experience the first few rapids, floating past the Doll House area, where outlaws used to hide out, ending the day with yet another exciting night of camping on the river’s bank.
Day 4 How about those Rapids
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Canyonlands National Park
More Cataract Canyon rapids await! The remainder of the day will be spent in the Mile Long and the Big Drop series of rapids. The Big Drops offer some of the wildest rapids in the country; these are just a taste of the day’s adventures.
Day 5 Our journey Ends but the memories remain
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Lake Powell
: Early morning brings more tales of the preceding day’s events through Cataract. We will motor through Lake Powell. The trip will end at Hite Marina in the early afternoon. Chartered transportation awaits your arrival and you’ll be back in Moab from approximately 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. There is an option of a return flight (50 minutes) or return van ride (2.5 hrs.), both will get you back to Moab.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (America/Denver).
Additional Information
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Cataract Canyon
Can I cancel Cataract Canyon for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 5 days.
Where does it start?
Departure Point: Adrift Adventures Address: 378 North Main St. Moab, Utah 84532
What's included?
- Professional guide
- National Park fees
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
- Breakfast
What's not included?
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Return Transportation (extra charges will apply)
Which places does it visit?
It visits Adrift Adventures, Dead Horse Point State Park, Green River, Canyonlands National Park, Lake Powell.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Adrift Adventures
