Desolation Canyon 5-Day Green River Rafting Trip-Singer/Songwriter, Storyteller


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The best-organized trip I’ve ever taken. Our guides made every moment special.


Mary, Grand Canyon Expedition


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Under Original Ownership Since 1971

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5 Star Rated Rafting Trips

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 We Provide Everything You Need For a Great Rafting Trip

Overview

This will be the eighth CRATE sponsored river trip with singer/songwriter Kate MacLeod & Storyteller/Liar Ken Sanders. Kate composes and performs songs actually written on our river trip, combined with her own songs about legendary canyon country figures, authors and others. Ken will read poems and stories, from Edward Abbey to Everett Ruess, and May Swenson to Gertrude Stein. He will tell stories of various folks he’s met along the trail and befriended over the years, including Ed Abbey, Charles Bowden, Terry Tempest Williams, Wendell Berry, and many other artists, authors, and musicians.

This 5-day rowing expedition covers 84 miles of the Green River through the remote Desolation and Gray Canyons. The adventure begins with a scenic charter flight from Green River to the remote put-in at Sand Wash. You will float through the canyon on 18-foot oar rafts or choose to paddle your own inflatable kayak ("ducky") for a more active experience. The river features over 60 fun, moderate rapids that are perfect for building confidence and having fun. Days are filled with river miles, swimming, and hiking to ancient rock art and outlaw cabins, while evenings are spent camping on sandy beaches under the stars. The trip concludes at Swasey's Rapid with a van shuttle back to our Green River warehouse.


Trip Details

  • Itinerary
    Pre-trip evening (Green River, UT) 
    6:00 PM - Meet our crew at our warehouse in Green River, Utah. They will give you a waterproof bag and discuss morning departure plans. If you are unable to make the 6:00 PM meeting, please let our office know.

    Day 1 – Scenic Flight to Sand Wash & Launch
    Depart between 6:00 am and 8:00 am for a scenic air charter flight from Green River to the remote airstrip at Sand Wash. From the airstrip, you will hike approximately one mile down to the river where the rafts are waiting. You will load your gear, receive a river orientation, and begin your journey downstream.

    Days 2–4 – Rapids, Hikes, and Canyon Life 
    Each day includes off-river hiking and exploring interesting historical sites and unique geological features. The river offers a mix of fun rapids and scenic vistas around every bend. Guides prepare hearty meals and snacks throughout the day, and you will camp on riverside beaches under the stars.

    Day 5 – Take-out at Swasey’s Beach & Return to Green River
    Arrive at Swasey’s Rapid around noon. Van transportation will take you back to the warehouse in Green River, where you can transfer your personal items from the waterproof bags and head to your next destination.
  • Includes
    • Scenic flight from Green River to Sand Wash
    • Return transportation from Swasey's Beach back to Green River at the end of the trip
    • Rafting 84 miles on the Green River from Sand Wash to Swasey's Beach
    • Camping equipment: Sleeping bags, foam pads, ground cloths, tents (if desired), and camp chairs
    • All meals on the river, beginning with lunch on the first day
    • Beverages: Assorted non-alcoholic drinks including juice and soft drinks
    • Souvenir 32 oz water bottle and a coffee mug
    • Life jackets (Coast Guard approved)
    • Plates and utensils for camp meals
  • Excludes
    • Lodging before or after the river trip in Green River, UT
    • Alcoholic beverages or specific preferred soft drinks (guests may bring a limited personal supply)
    • Travel insurance (including emergency evacuation or trip cancellation)
    • Gratuity for the guides
  • What to Bring
    • River clothing: quick-dry shorts and shirts, swimsuits, a lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt, and breathable layers
    • Warm layer and rain gear: a fleece or sweatshirt plus a 2-piece rain jacket and pants
    • Footwear: river-ready sandals with a heel strap (Chaco, Teva, Keen, etc.) and athletic shoes or light hiking shoes for walks and hikes
    • Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm
    • Personal items: toiletries, any required medications, a small personal first-aid kit if desired, a headlamp, and a camera
    A more detailed packing list will be sent to you upon booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What rivers do you raft?

    We run the Colorado River and Green River – including Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon, and Westwater Canyon – as well as the remote Tatshenshini & Alsek Rivers in Alaska.

  • Is there a minimum age requirement for your rafting trips?

    Yes — the age requirement depends on the trip:


    • Grand Canyon: 12 yrs (motorized) | 14-16 yrs (rowing/paddle)
    • Cataract Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows)
    • Desolation Canyon: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50 lbs)
    • Westwater Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows)
    • Alaska: 14-16 yrs (depending on flows)
    • 1-Day Trips: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50–60 lbs)
  • What should I bring / how do I pack?

    We provide most major gear (cots, sleeping bags, dry bags, etc.). We recommend lightweight, quick-drying clothing layers, rain gear, water shoes, and extra camera batteries — especially since you’ll be “unplugged” on river time.


    We will provide you with a detailed packing list upon booking.

  • What happens if there’s an emergency?

    CRATE trips take place in remote wilderness areas where medical care, communication, and evacuations may be limited or delayed. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and will provide reasonable care in the field, but outside assistance depends on weather, terrain, aircraft availability, and local resources. Evacuations—including helicopter transport—are not guaranteed and may require moving to a safer location or waiting for conditions to improve. Wilderness travel carries inherent risks, and emergency response options can be unpredictable. In remote situations, evacuation costs are your responsibility; we recommend travel insurance.

  • Can I book a private or chartered trip?
  • Will I have cell service and power?

    On-river you will likely have no cell service — that's part of the unplugged, wilderness experience. Charging options for your phone or camera are limited to bringing extra batteries, portable power banks, or solar chargers.


Policies

  • Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Policies
    Colorado River & Trail Expeditions reserves the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any expedition due to weather or river conditions or lack of sufficient reservations. In the event of cancellation or rescheduling by us, deposits and payments will be totally refunded or applied to another trip according to your wishes.

    Travel Insurance Policy:
    We strongly recommend that you sign up for travel insurance to protect the monetary investment you have made in your river trip.  For more information or to purchase the available plans, visit https://www.travelexinsurance.com/ or contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference location number 44-0060.

  • Code of Conduct
    CODE OF CONDUCT 

    At Colorado River & Trail Expeditions, we are committed to providing safe, enjoyable, and memorable whitewater rafting experiences for our customers. Our success depends on the professionalism and responsibility of our employees, as well as the respect and cooperation of our customers. To ensure a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved, we have established the following Code of Conduct:

    Dignity and Integrity: 
    • We conduct ourselves with honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions, whether with employees, customers, or fellow adventurers. 
    • We treat all individuals with dignity and respect, valuing diversity and embracing differences. 
    Respect for All: 
    • Treat all individuals with respect, courtesy, and dignity, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic. 
    • Show respect and gratitude to your guides and crew members. They are there to ensure your safety and provide an enjoyable experience. 
    • Respect each individual’s need for privacy during personal moments such as changing clothes, urination, and bathing, by maintaining a discreet distance and refraining from intrusive behavior to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience for all. 
    Zero Tolerance for Disrespectful Behavior: 
    • Disrespectful behavior, including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, bullying, hazing, or any form of intimidation, will not be tolerated.
    Safety and Environmental Stewardship: 
    • Safety is our top priority. We follow all safety guidelines and procedures to protect the well-being of our employees and customers. 
    • We are committed to environmental stewardship and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the areas we explore.
    Alcohol & Drug Policy: 
    • Alcohol consumption during trips should be responsible and respectful of others' comfort and safety. Alcohol should only be consumed in camp and in moderation. Excessive drinking is discouraged. 
    • The use of recreational drugs during trips is strictly prohibited.
  • Dietary and Allergies Policy
    Dietary Restrictions:
    We may not have the resources to fully accommodate restrictive diets in the wilderness, especially if they require special preparation. Our menu offers a variety of options, with limited gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives available if requested in advance. For non-dairy diets, we provide almond or soy milk, but not other substitutes. Guests are welcome to check ingredient labels in our camp kitchen.

    Allergies:
    If you have severe allergies causing breathing issues or anaphylaxis, consult us before booking. This rafting trip may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies due to potential cross-contamination. Non-severe allergy travelers must self-monitor food intake.

     
  • Health and Physical Requirements
    HEALTH & PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS
    People of all ages have enjoyed this river trip with us. Our major concern is that participants be in good health and good physical and mental condition. We do not recommend this trip for those with chronic heart trouble, back pain, severe arthritis, or for anyone recuperating from recent surgery. Pregnant women should check with their physicians. Factors such as age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other chronic diseases, may be exacerbated due to the unique environmental conditions and physical challenges of a rafting adventure. With this in mind, please let us know if you have any health conditions of which we should be aware.

    Essential Eligibility Criteria for Rafting Trips: 
    • Be able to wear & properly fasten Type V Life Jacket provided by CRATE (max. chest size 58”) 
    • Be able to get on and off the boat multiple times each day 
    • Be able to hold on to ropes, handholds, and safety lines aboard the raft 
    • Be able to assist in self rescue in case of falling overboard, such as swim to the raft and/or catch and hold on to a thrown safety rope. 
    • Be able to carry personal gear on and off the boat and to/from the campsite 
    • Be able to set up personal campsite (tent, camping gear, etc.) 
    • Be able to walk over sand, rocks, unimproved trails and other uneven terrain 
    • Be able to withstand extended environmental elements, including exposure to extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain.
    Lifejacket / PFD Policy
    All guests must wear our Coast Guard-approved life jacket (personal flotation device or PFD) at all times while on the water. To properly fit into a life jacket, guests must meet the following requirements:
    • Be at least 50 pounds
    • Chest size under 58 inches
  • Age Requirements UT
    Minimum Age Requirement:
    • Cataract Canyon: 12 years old at time of travel
    • Desolation Canyon: 8 years old at time of travel
    • Westwater Canyon: 12 years old at time of travel
    • 1-Day Rafting Trips: 8 years old at time of travel
    * All youth must be at least 50 pounds to fit properly into a PFD.
  • Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Cancellation
    Cancellation Policy:
    Half of your deposit is refundable up to 120 days prior to departure if you must cancel your reservation for any reason. Final payment on your account is due 90 days prior to departure and is non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. We reserve the right to resell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office.

    This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless you or we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons.

    Cancellation Policy for Private Groups/Charters:
    If you have joined a private charter trip, your deposit is non-refundable. Final payment is due 120 days prior departure. We reserve the right to re-sell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office.

    Your deposit and your final payment are non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons.

FROM: $995.00

Meeting Location: 255 1000 N, Green River, UT 84525, USA
Begins: 7:00 AM

Duration: 5 Days/4 Nights

Age Restrictions: Minimum Age: 8