5-Day Desolation Canyon Wilderness Expedition

    Reward Points: 8000

  • Adult Price:
    USD $2,560.00

  • Child Price: (5-15)
    USD $1,890.00

  • You can select the date by clicking on any date in calendars below!

    5-Day Desolation Canyon Wilderness Expedition, Moab, Utah


    Unplug and reconnect with five days of rafting, canyon hikes, starry nights & sandy beaches in one of America’s most peaceful wilderness adventures.


    *LIKELY TO SELL OUT - ADVANCED BOOKINGS ARE RECOMMENDED. SHOULD YOUR CHOSEN DATE NOT BE AVAILABLE A REFUND OR ALTERNATIVE DATE WILL BE OFFERED


    America's #1 Family Adventure with Unforgettable Rafting and All-Inclusive Beach Camping

    Consistently ranked among America’s top family rafting trips, Desolation Canyon offers the perfect mix of discovery, comfort, and connection. A scenic flight from Moab drops you deep into Utah’s remote wilderness for five unforgettable days on the Green River.

    Enjoy warmer water, over 60 playful class II–III rapids, and the chance to paddle your own inflatable kayak through calm stretches. Each night, unwind on huge sandy beaches shaded by cottonwoods and let our guides take care of everything — from gourmet riverside meals to cozy, all-inclusive camping under a canopy of stars. It’s the ideal adventure for families ready to laugh, explore, and reconnect in one of the most beautiful canyons in the West.

    DAY 1: JOURNEY INTO THE CANYON

    Your adventure begins with a scenic flight from Moab over the Book Cliffs, landing atop the Tavaputs Plateau. A short hike brings you to the banks of the Green River, where your rafts are waiting. Launch onto calm, sun-warmed water that’s perfect for swimming and play. That night, your guides set up a comfortable, all-inclusive riverside camp on a huge sandy beach. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner as the canyon glows gold, then drift to sleep beneath a desert sky filled with stars.

    DAYS 2 & 3: ADVENTURE & DISCOVERY

    Wake to the smell of coffee and breakfast cooking in the morning air. These are the heart of your trip — filled with splashing through class II–III rapids, exploring Fremont petroglyphs, hiking to hidden side canyons, and spotting bighorn sheep and blue herons along the riverbanks. Families love taking turns paddling the inflatable kayaks, gliding through warm water and gentle waves. Evenings bring relaxation: gourmet camp meals, soft sand between your toes, and the laughter of new friends under the vast desert sky.

    DAY 4: RAPIDS & RED ROCK HISTORY

    The canyon deepens and the whitewater grows. Run the trip’s biggest rapids — Wire Fence and Three Fords — where excitement and confidence meet. Between runs, you’ll hike to a historic homestead rich in outlaw folklore and pioneer grit. That evening, unwind on the beach as your guides serve another hearty dinner and dessert, the scent of campfire mingling with the cool night air.

    DAY 5: GRAY CANYON & FAREWELL

    Your final morning begins quietly as the first light spills over the cliffs. Enjoy breakfast and a few last splashy rapids through Gray Canyon before you reach the take-out. After a farewell lunch, a shuttle returns you to Moab by midafternoon — sandy, smiling, and full of shared memories your family will talk about for years to come.


    Highlights

    • Flight from Moab to Sand Wash airstrip to begin the adventure
    • 88 miles of Desolation & Gray Canyons on the Green River 
    • Fun & splashy Class  II & III rapids throughout the trip 
    • First-class service, meals and comfortable riverside camping
    • Decades of Expertise - We've been honing the perfect adventure tour since 1961.
    • Utah's Best Adventures - Voted best adventure company in Utah for 22 consecutive years running.


    What’s Included

    • SCENIC FLIGHT Airport transfer & flight from Moab to the river.
    • RAFTING Class I-III whitewater rafting (rapids depend on water levels).
    • HIKING Short walks to longer, more difficult hikes - (all optional).
    • CAMPING EQUIPMENT Cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs, and water-resistant bag.
    • MEALS Guides prepare all meals for you between departure and return.
    • GROUND TRANSFER Transportation to Moab hotel at the end of the  trip.


    What’s Not Included

    • Guide appreciation - Gratuities for your guide are at your discretion and are always appreciated. A common practice is 10-20% of the tour cost.
    • Lodging - Moab hotel stay before or after trip
    • Taxes & Fees - Any applicable taxes and fees


    Schedule: Dates vary, see calendar for details, departure at 06:30am

    Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights

    Group Size: Up to 25 guests

    Minimum Age: 5 Years old


    Important Information:

    Depending on your arrival or departure times,  we recommend you add a Sunset Arches or Hummer tour into your itinerary. You don't want to miss these highly unique adventures in Moab!


    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is the Desolation Canyon rafting trip best suited for?

    This trip is perfect for families, especially those with children ages 5 and up, as well as couples or groups looking for a more relaxed wilderness adventure. With over 60 fun Class I–III rapids, plenty of calm water, and long sandy beaches for camping, it’s approachable for first-time rafters while still offering excitement for seasoned adventurers.

    What are the physical requirements for a Desolation Canyon trip?

    Guests should be in reasonable health and able to participate in an active wilderness adventure. You’ll need to fit a Type V whitewater life jacket (50 lbs minimum; chest size up to 52"), hold on during rapids, and be able to swim to the raft or shore if you fall in. At camp, you’ll carry your own dry bag across sandy beaches and uneven ground. Hikes are optional but usually short and easy enough for families.

    How does Desolation Canyon compare to Cataract Canyon or Westwater?

    Desolation Canyon is more remote and relaxed than Cataract or Westwater. Rapids here are mostly Class I–III, making them friendlier for families with younger kids. Unlike the more intense Class IV–V rapids of Cataract, Desolation focuses on a slower pace, wilderness camping, and exploration.

    What is the flight from Moab to Desolation Canyon like?

    This trip begins with a scenic flight from Moab into a remote airstrip above the canyon. The small plane flight (typically 5–9 passengers) offers incredible views of the Green River and surrounding desert wilderness. The flight is included in your trip package and is often a highlight of the adventure. After landing, you’ll hike down off of the plateau to meet your rafts and begin your river journey. The hike is a couple of miles and does include some steep and rocky terrain. Guests are welcome to ride in a van down to the river’s edge if they would prefer not to hike.

    What type of rafts are used on the Desolation Canyon trip?

    Trips typically use a mix of oar-powered rafts rowed by guides and 2-person inflatable kayaks (“duckies”) for those who want more independence. This variety allows everyone—from young kids to teens and adventurous adults—to experience the canyon at their own pace.

    What kind of rapids will I encounter in Desolation Canyon?

    You’ll run more than 60 named rapids, most of which are fun, splashy Class I–III. These rapids provide plenty of excitement without being overwhelming, making them ideal for families and first-timers. The rapids are spread throughout the trip, with calm water sections in between for swimming, relaxing, or playing games in the raft. Rafting these moderate rapids in your own 2-person inflatable kayak can definitely increase the excitement level for those in search of more thrills.

    What is camping like in Desolation Canyon?

    Each night, you’ll camp at the river’s edge, often on wide sandy beaches shaded by cottonwood trees or beneath towering canyon walls. Guides set up a comfortable camp with tents, cots, and sleeping bags, and they prepare hearty meals each day. Evenings often include stargazing, games for kids, and quiet time by the river. Camping in Desolation feels remote, peaceful, and unforgettable.

    Can I bring a CPAP machine on a Desolation Canyon trip?

    Yes, but you must be able to finish the trip without it if your CPAP or batteries fail, since evacuations are reserved for true emergencies. Bring enough charged batteries for all nights of the trip, and let us know in advance so we can plan space for your device.

    What kind of food is served on the river, and can you handle dietary needs?

    Meals are hearty and served buffet-style, with hot breakfasts, fresh lunches, and filling dinners prepared by your guides. We can often provide vegetarian items or gluten-free breads and tortillas if requested in advance, but our river kitchens are limited. Guests with strict diets or severe allergies should bring supplemental snacks or items that don’t require special preparation.

    How are food allergies handled on Desolation Canyon trips?

    Please tell us about your allergies and their severity before your trip. We do our best to set aside portions before adding nuts, dairy, or other ingredients, but we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. If you have a severe allergy, you must bring at least two epinephrine auto-injectors and some extra safe snacks or desserts.

    What drinks are provided, and can I bring my own?

    We provide cold water and flavored drink mix throughout the trip. Bring a refillable water bottle for easy refills on and off the raft. You may bring a small amount of canned soda or beer; glass containers are not allowed.

    Can I bring my own snacks?

    Yes. We provide snacks each day, but many guests like to bring their favorites—especially for kids. Small, sealed packages are easiest, and we can store them in dry or cold boxes.

    What’s a typical day like in Desolation Canyon?

    Each day starts with coffee or cocoa, followed by breakfast. After breaking camp, you’ll raft for an hour or two at a time, stopping for short hikes, bathroom breaks, and a picnic-style lunch. You’ll raft a mix of calm water and Class I–III rapids, with time to swim when conditions allow. In the afternoon, guides set up camp and prepare dinner while you relax, play games with the kids, or explore the beach. Evenings end with dessert and stargazing before a good night’s sleep.

    What bathroom facilities are available on the trip?

    In camp, we use a portable toilet system set up in a private location. During the day, guides make “pit stops” for liquid waste in the river current, following river regulations. For #2 emergencies during the day, we’ll provide supplies and instructions for a clean and discreet process.

    What should I do about feminine hygiene on the river?

    Tampons are usually easiest since you’ll be in and out of the water. Bring your preferred products and small zip-bags for discreet disposal. Guides make stops as needed, and camp toilets are always available morning and evening.

    What if there’s a medical situation on the river?

    Our guides are trained in wilderness medicine and carry first-aid kits and satellite communication devices. For serious illness or injury, evacuation is coordinated by helicopter or other means if available, but because we are in remote backcountry, response times can vary.

    How do I bathe or wash up on a Desolation Canyon trip?

    Most guests rinse off in the river using biodegradable soap, a washcloth, and a quick-dry towel. Brushing teeth should be done with drinking water. Clothes can be rinsed and dried at camp, and lotion, lip balm, and conditioner are helpful in the dry desert air.

    What if there’s a medical situation on the river?

    Guides are trained in wilderness medicine and carry first-aid kits and satellite communications. Serious medical issues may require helicopter or boat evacuation, but response times vary depending on conditions. Guests should be in reasonable health to join the trip.

    How do I bathe or wash up on the river?

    Most guests rinse off in the river with biodegradable soap, a washcloth, and a quick-dry towel. Brushing teeth should be done with drinking water provided by guides. Clothing can be rinsed and dried at camp. Lotion, conditioner, and lip balm help with the dry desert air.

    Do I need a wetsuit in Desolation Canyon?

    Not unless you’re rafting in the winter. In June, the water can be chilly, but for those who are prone to get cold easily, generally just a rain jacket is sufficient. By July and August, the water and air are warm enough that you’ll be spending a lot of time cooling off by floating down the river in your life jacket.

    Should I bring cameras or electronics on the trip?

    This is a perfect trip to unplug, so avoid bringing laptops, tablets, or other large electronics—they’ll likely be damaged by heat, sand, or water. A single phone or small camera for photos is plenty; not everyone in the family needs to bring one since there’s no cell service. Kids especially benefit from disconnecting and rediscovering simple fun on the river. If you bring a device, store it in a waterproof case with a strap. Small power banks work, but drones are not allowed in this wilderness area.

    What do I do with extra luggage during my Desolation Canyon trip?

    We can store extra bags securely at our Springhill Suites meeting location in Moab while you’re on the river. Only bring what fits in the waterproof dry bags we provide.

    How do overnight bags and day bags work?

    Each guest receives two waterproof dry bags. A large overnight bag holds your camp gear and clothing and is only accessed at camp. A smaller day bag rides with you on the raft and should carry sunscreen, water bottle, rain jacket, snacks, medications, and a waterproof camera.

    When does the Desolation Canyon trip run, and what season is best?

    Trips generally operate from June through August. Early summer often means higher flows and splashier rapids, while later in the season the water is calmer and warmer—perfect for swimming. Because this trip is family-focused, many guests choose July and August for school breaks and comfortable camping weather.

    What should I pack for the Desolation Canyon trip?

    You’ll receive a detailed packing list after booking, but in general you’ll want quick-dry clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, and plenty of sun protection. Towels, personal toiletries, and a light jacket for cool evenings are also recommended. All rafting and camping gear is provided.

    How far in advance should I book Desolation Canyon?

    Because Desolation Canyon is one of the most family-friendly rafting adventures in Utah and one of the top rafting trips in America, limited departures often sell out months in advance. Booking early is the best way to ensure your preferred dates and give your family plenty of time to prepare for this wilderness experience.


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