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

Description

Enjoy one of Moab’s most popular adventures with this half-day taste of the Colorado River. Launch just below Rocky Rapid and float through calm, scenic water toward our exclusive riverside ranch, where a hot barbecue lunch awaits. The smell of fresh barbecue and sizzling burgers drifts through the canyon as you relax in the shade and enjoy freshly grilled burgers, chicken, or veggie patties, crisp salads, giant cookies, and ice-cold lemonade.

After lunch, head back to the river for more fun as the canyon walls rise higher and the rapids return. Splash through White’s Rapid and a few lively waves along one of the West’s most cinematic byways, tracing the border of Arches National Park. 

Choose a shared paddle raft or try an inflatable kayak (availability may vary by time of year and water levels). It’s a perfect blend of sunshine, scenery, and refreshing adventure in the heart of red rock country.

Highlights

• Raft 7 miles of the Colorado River on a relaxing midday float with splashy rapids.
• Fun for all ages: Class I–II+ waves most of the season; spring flows can rise to Class III.
• Pause for a riverside BBQ lunch surrounded by Moab’s red rock cliffs.
• Convenient late-morning start leaves time for other Moab adventures.
• 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 - Knowledgeable guides lead your raft, share stories, and keep the trip engaging.
• All Rafting Gear - Life jackets, paddles, and safety equipment included for every guest.
• Riverside BBQ Lunch - Enjoy a freshly prepared barbecue lunch along 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 your own sun protection, water shoes, swimsuit/quick-dry clothing, and a daypack.
• 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:

11:00 am Monday - Saturday April through October

Duration: Approx 4.5 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 (gentle float or thrilling rapids) that fits your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mid-Day rafting trip good for families and kids?

Yes. The Mid-Day Colorado River trip is designed for families with children as young as five (minimum 50 lbs). The mix of calm water and Class I–II rapids (sometimes Class III during spring high water) keeps kids entertained without being too intense. Parents and grandparents also enjoy the pace, and many families say the addition of a riverside BBQ lunch makes it a highlight of their Moab vacation.

How adventurous is the Mid-Day rafting trip—whitewater or mostly calm float?

This section of the Colorado River combines calm stretches with splashy Class I–II rapids, and Class III waves may appear in spring. It’s not as extreme as Westwater or Cataract Canyon, but it provides enough action to keep families, first-timers, and even teens engaged. Guests often describe it as a “perfect balance” of excitement and relaxation.

What’s included with the Mid-Day rafting trip and lunch?

This adventure includes professional guides, all required rafting gear (rafts, paddles, and Coast Guard–approved life jackets), shuttle transportation, and a riverside BBQ lunch at a private ranch. Lunch options may include freshly grilled burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or veggie patties, plus salads, sides, cookies, lemonade, and iced tea. Gluten-free and vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking.

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 have to paddle the whole time on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

No. Trips use oar-assisted rafts, where your guide does the main rowing. Guests are welcome to paddle along, and the guide may invite extra paddling in rapids, but you won’t be paddling the entire way. Inflatable kayaks are sometimes available for guests who want a more hands-on challenge.

Can I swim during the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Yes. On calm stretches, guides may allow guests to jump in with their life jackets (PFDs) and float alongside the raft. Swimming is optional, and guides will let you know when conditions are suitable. Water is cooler in spring, so many guests prefer swimming later in the summer.

What should I wear and bring on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure footwear that can get wet (water shoes or sandals with straps—no flip-flops), and sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen). Bring a refillable water bottle—each guest also receives a complimentary souvenir bottle you can use during the trip.

Does the Mid-Day rafting trip run in bad weather?

Trips run in most conditions, including light rain. Spring often brings higher, splashier water, while late summer is usually calmer and warmer. If river or weather conditions make it unwise to operate, trips may be rescheduled or refunded.

Will there be time to take photos on the Mid-Day rafting adventure?

Yes. There are plenty of opportunities during calm sections and at lunch to capture the scenery, wildlife, and your group. A waterproof camera or phone case with a strap is highly recommended. Guides are also happy to take group photos at the riverside ranch or during calmer stretches.

When does the Mid-Day rafting trip run, and what’s the best time of year to go?

The Mid-Day Colorado River trip typically operates from March through October. Spring (May–June) often brings higher water from snowmelt, which can create splashier rapids and even some Class III waves. By late summer, the river usually runs lower and calmer, with warmer water that many families enjoy for swimming. Both seasons are popular—the best choice depends on whether you prefer more excitement in spring or a gentler ride in summer.

How far in advance should I book the Mid-Day rafting trip?

The Mid-Day rafting adventure is one of our most popular half-day options and often sells out weeks ahead. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and departure time, and helps you coordinate rafting with other Moab adventures in your itinerary.

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