Full-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch, Moab, Utah

Description

Colorado River Rafting with Scenic Drive, Mild Rapids & Exclusive Riverside BBQ Lunch at a Private Ranch

Begin your day with a scenic drive along the Colorado River, where golden light glows on towering red cliffs. This stretch of canyon country has starred in countless Hollywood films, and you’ll soon see why. 

Push off into the current and feel the splash of cool water as you paddle through playful rapids like Onion Creek, Cloudburst, and Whites Rapid. Between waves, drift on calm stretches, float beside the raft, and take in the vast canyon views.

When the scent of fresh barbecue meets the desert air, it’s time for a well-earned break. Pull ashore at a shady riverside ranch for an exclusive hot BBQ lunch (available only through Moab Adventure Center) with grilled burgers, chicken, or veggie patties, crisp salads, giant cookies, and cold lemonade.

Choose a shared paddle raft or a two-person inflatable kayak, depending on water levels and your sense of adventure. It’s the perfect mix of splash, sunshine, and movie-worthy scenery on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Colorado River.

Highlights

• Raft 14 miles of the Colorado River near Moab in one day.
• Splash through fun Class I–II+ rapids, ideal for all ages. Higher water in springtime can produce Class III rapids on this section of river.
• Spot wildlife like bald eagles, otters, and bighorn sheep.
• Drift through Castle Valley and scenes made famous by Hollywood.
• Enjoy a riverside BBQ lunch with red rock canyon views.
• 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.
• Book Today Worry Free - Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure.

What’s Included

• Professional River Guide - Friendly, skilled guides lead the trip, share stories, and keep the fun flowing.
• All Rafting Gear - Life jackets, paddles, and safety equipment included—just bring yourself.
• Riverside BBQ Lunch - Enjoy a hearty barbecue lunch served on the banks of the Colorado River.
• Shuttle Transportation - Round-trip transport from Moab Adventure Center to the river and back.
• Complimentary pickup service at select locations - Please state accommodation upon booking

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.
• Personal Items - Bring sun protection, swimsuit/quick-dry clothing, and water shoes—these are not provided.
• Dry Bag - Small waterproof bags are available at the Moab Adventure Center if you’d like to keep a few essentials—like a phone, camera, or extra layer—close at hand and dry. We recommend leaving valuables behind whenever possible. Car keys can be securely left with our staff before your trip.

Trips Operate:

08:00 am or 09:00 am Monday - Saturday April through October

Duration: Approx 7 hours with transfers

Group Size: 4-8 guests per raft

Minimum Age: 5 Years old and at least 50 pounds and 42"

Important Information:

River trips are the highlight of many Moab vacations, but departures often sell out weeks ahead, especially in June and July when flows are at their best. Don’t risk missing your chance to raft the Colorado. Reserve today to secure the time and trip style that fits your travel party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Full-Day Moab Rafting Trip suitable for children and families? 

Yes. The Full-Day Colorado River trip is designed for families with kids as young as five (minimum 50 lbs). Most rapids are Class I–II, with the possibility of some Class III during high-water years or springtime. The balance of splashy fun and calm sections makes it great for kids, first-timers, and even grandparents.

Is this real whitewater rafting on the full-day trip or more of a scenic float?

This stretch of the Colorado River offers a mix of splashy Class I–II rapids and calm waters, with Class III possible in spring high water. It’s not the intense whitewater of Westwater or Cataract Canyon, but it provides plenty of action for families and first-timers while staying approachable. Guests often say it’s the perfect introduction to rafting.

How long is the Full-Day Moab Rafting trip, and when will I be back?

The trip covers about 14 miles of river and lasts approximately 7 hours, including shuttle time and lunch. Departures are at 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM, and most groups return to Moab by mid-to-late afternoon, leaving time for an evening activity, such as a Sunset Hummer Safari or a Sunset Arches tour during the longer days of summer.

What’s included with the riverside BBQ lunch?

Lunch is a hot buffet served at a private riverside ranch. Choices may include freshly grilled burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or veggie patties, along with salads, sides, cookies, lemonade, and iced tea. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available on request—please notify us when booking so we can prepare accordingly.

Do I need to paddle the whole time on this trip?

No. Trips are conducted in “guide-assist” paddle boats, so your guide does the primary rowing. Guests are welcome to paddle along, and the guide may ask guests to paddle in rapids, but you will likely not be paddling for the entire trip. Two-person inflatable kayaks are sometimes available (depending on water levels and weather) if you’d like more hands-on adventure.

Will I have chances to swim on the Full-Day Moab Rafting Trip?

Yes. On calm stretches, guides often allow guests to jump in with their personal flotation devices (PFDs) and float alongside the raft. This is optional, and guides will inform you when conditions are suitable. Note that water temperatures may be cooler earlier in the spring and less comfortable for swimming.

What should I bring on this trip?

Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure footwear that can get wet (water shoes or sandals with straps—no flip-flops), sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen), and a refillable water bottle. Note that a souvenir water bottle is provided to you as part of your trip experience and you are welcome to use this during the trip.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips run in most conditions, including rain. Weather and river flows can affect the experience—spring often brings bigger water, while late summer is usually calmer. If conditions make it unwise to operate, trips may be rescheduled or refunded.

Can I take photos during the trip?

Yes. You’ll have opportunities on calm sections and at lunch to take photos of the scenery, wildlife, and your group. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are recommended, since gear can get wet. If you’re bringing your phone, we recommend a waterproof case with a strap so you don’t lose it in the river.

When does the Full-Day rafting trip run, and what season is best?

The Full-Day Colorado River trip typically operates from April through October. Spring and early summer (May–June) often bring higher water from mountain snowmelt, which can create splashier Class II–III rapids. Later in the summer, the river usually runs lower and calmer, with warmer water that’s perfect for swimming and family outings. Both seasons are popular—spring for more excitement, summer for a relaxed pace with warm canyon breezes.

How far in advance should I book?

Full-day rafting trips are among our most popular adventures and often sell out weeks in advance. Booking early ensures you get the date and departure time you want.

Get your Full-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch tickets today with Attraction Ticket Shop!