Colorado River Rafting Trips
Top Colorado River Rafting Trips
From thrilling rapids to scenic floats, the Colorado River offers diverse rafting adventures for every type of explorer. Here are the most popular sections to raft, each offering unique landscapes, history, and whitewater excitement:
1-Day
Moab Fisher Towers
Understanding Colorado River Miles and River Sections
The measurement of Colorado River miles depends on the section of the river. Above the confluence of the Colorado River and the Green River, river miles are measured as distance above the confluence. Below the confluence, including Cataract Canyon, the mileage is measured as above Lees Ferry. Lees Ferry is mile 0. Lees Ferry is located 216.5 miles below the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers.
In the Grand Canyon, the river mileage is determined by how many miles below Lees Ferry something is. Understanding how Colorado River miles are measured is crucial when planning rafting trips in either Cataract Canyon or the Grand Canyon.
Featured Colorado River Rafting Destinations
Westwater Canyon
Cisco to Dewey Bridge
Moab Daily
Glen Canyon
Horseshoe Bend
Grand Canyon
River Mile 128-111
Westwater Canyon Rafting Trips
Westwater Canyon Rafting – The Best Short Whitewater Rafting Trip on the Colorado River
Westwater Canyon is one of the most thrilling and scenic Colorado River rafting destinations, offering a mix of exciting Class III-IV rapids, breathtaking canyon scenery, and rich history. Located in eastern Utah, this section of the Colorado River is often called the “West’s Best Overnight Whitewater River Trip”—perfect for both first-time rafters and experienced adventurers looking for a quick, action-packed getaway.
Westwater Canyon Rafting Trips
1-Day Westwater Canyon Rafting Trip
A high-energy adventure through Class III-IV rapids, ideal for those short on time but craving excitement.
2-Day Overnight Westwater Canyon Trip
Experience the beauty of the canyon with a night of riverside camping under the stars.
3-Day Westwater Canyon Expedition
Continue past Westwater into the Scenic Moab Daily section of the Colorado River.
Why Choose Westwater Canyon for Colorado River Rafting?
Best Short-Trip Whitewater Experience
Perfect for those looking for a quick but thrilling rafting trip.
Amazing Scenery
A mix of red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and ancient rock formations.
Exciting Rapids
Experience some of the best Colorado River whitewater outside the Grand Canyon.
Wildlife & History
Spot bald eagles, explore hidden caves, and learn about the river’s storied past.
Book Your Westwater Canyon Rafting Trip Today!
Whether you’re looking for a one-day whitewater adventure or a multi-day rafting and camping experience, Westwater Canyon is an unforgettable way to explore the Colorado River.
Call us at 1-800-253-7328 or visit our click the button below to start your adventure!
River Mile 111-88
Cisco to Fisher Towers
Rafting the Cisco to Fisher Towers Section of the Colorado River
For those looking for a scenic and wildlife rich Colorado River rafting experience, the Cisco to Fisher Towers section offers a beautiful float trip with stunning desert landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fascinating history. While this stretch of the Colorado River does not feature whitewater rapids, the steady current, natural obstacles, and rock formations make for a fun and engaging rafting experience.
This section is often paired with Westwater Canyon rafting trips, offering a balance between thrilling whitewater and relaxing desert scenery or as an extension to our Fisher Towers section for large youth groups wanting to spend more than a day on the river.
What to Expect on This Colorado River Rafting Trip
Fast-Moving Water & Natural Obstacles
While there are no major rapids, this section keeps things exciting with swift currents and unique rock formations.
Incredible Scenery
Raft past towering red rock cliffs, lush riverbanks, and panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains.
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, great blue herons, bighorn sheep, and river otters along the shoreline. We regularly hear Elk bugling during September trips and have even seen a Black Bear swimming across the river.
Historic Landmarks
Float beneath the remains of Dewey Bridge, a historic suspension bridge that burned in 2007.
Scenic Highway 128
This section runs parallel to one of Utah’s most breathtaking scenic drives.
Riverside Camping
Several remote riverside campsites make this a great option for overnight rafting trips.
Perfect for Youth Groups & Beginner Rafters
The Cisco to Fisher Towers stretch is ideal for:
Youth groups and large rafting parties
A fun introduction to Colorado River rafting.
Families and first-time rafters
A great way to enjoy the river and desert scenery.
Wildlife and photography enthusiasts
A chance to experience the beauty of the Colorado River corridor up close.
Book Your Cisco to Fisher Towers Rafting Trip Today!
Call us at 1-800-253-7328 or click the button below to start your adventure!
River Mile 88-74
The Moab Daily-Fisher Towers Section of the Colorado River
1-Day Moab Rafting on the Colorado River – The Perfect Family Adventure
The Moab Daily section of the Colorado River is one of the most popular and accessible rafting trips in Utah, offering a mix of gentle rapids, stunning red rock scenery, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. This one-day rafting trip is perfect for families, first-time rafters, and those looking for a fun, laid-back experience on the river.
Starting at Hittle Bottom and ending at the Moab Daily Take-Out, this section of the Colorado River features moderate Class I-II rapids, making it an excellent introduction to Colorado River rafting. With options for paddle boats, inflatable kayaks, and guided rafting trips, this adventure is designed for all levels of rafters.
Westwater Canyon Rafting Trips
1-Day Westwater Canyon Rafting Trip
A high-energy adventure through Class III-IV rapids, ideal for those short on time but craving excitement.
2-Day Overnight Westwater Canyon Trip
Experience the beauty of the canyon with a night of riverside camping under the stars.
3-Day Westwater Canyon Expedition
Continue past Westwater into the Scenic Moab Daily section of the Colorado River.
Why Choose Westwater Canyon for Your Colorado River Rafting Adventure?
Best Short-Trip Whitewater Experience
Perfect for those looking for a quick but thrilling rafting trip.
Amazing Scenery
A mix of red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and ancient rock formations.
Exciting Rapids
Experience some of the best Colorado River whitewater outside the Grand Canyon.
Wildlife & History
Spot bald eagles, explore hidden caves, and learn about the river’s storied past.
Book Your Moab Daily-Fisher Towers Section Rafting Trip Today!
Call us at 1-800-253-7328 or click the button below to start your adventure!
Glen Canyon: The Lost Treasure of the Colorado River
Before the creation of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon was one of the most breathtaking sections of the Colorado River, known for its towering sandstone walls, hidden grottoes, and serene beauty. This stretch of river was once a premier destination for rafting, offering a peaceful yet awe-inspiring journey through a canyon system that many consider unmatched in its natural grandeur.
Today, Glen Canyon is often referred to as “The Place No One Knew”—a reference to how few people had the chance to experience its wonders before it was submerged beneath the reservoir. The loss of Glen Canyon remains one of the most profound transformations of the Colorado River, a reminder of the delicate balance between conservation and development.
Glen Canyon-Now Covered by Lake Powell
The chance to float quietly down a calm river, to let the current reveal a thousand years of history, the wild heritage that belonged in Glen, a canyon itself alive. Incredible, haunting beauty, where the creations of the Colorado rivaled any in the world, where the side canyons simply had no rivals. We lost wholeness, integrity, in a place no one knew well enough, in a place that might always have let people know how magnificent a gesture is the natural world.”
Phil Pennington and Chuck Washburn, from Glen Canyon, 1963.
Discover the Majesty of Colorado River Rafting
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the American West. The Colorado River offers unparalleled whitewater adventures and breathtaking scenery, from the iconic Grand Canyon to thrilling whitewater sections. Explore our diverse range of Colorado River rafting trips designed for every adventurer.
The Iconic Curve of Horseshoe Bend
This 15-mile section of the Colorado River marks the last remaining stretch of Glen Canyon, offering a rare glimpse into the beauty that once defined the entire region. One of the most famous landmarks along this route is Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River carves a dramatic, 270-degree curve through towering red rock cliffs.
Horseshoe Bend: A Must-See Colorado River Landmark
As one of the last accessible parts of Glen Canyon, this section of the Colorado River provides a unique opportunity to witness the remnants of a lost canyon while taking in one of the most spectacular river landscapes in the world.
Iconic Views
The classic viewpoint, perched 1,000 feet above the river, is one of the most photographed locations in the Southwest. Visitors from around the world hike to this overlook to capture the stunning, panoramic view of the river’s meandering path.
Float Through Horseshoe Bend
For a completely different perspective, you can raft or kayak around the bend itself, experiencing the sheer canyon walls from water level. This calm water section of the Colorado River is perfect for a scenic float, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful, immersive experience.
Book Your Horseshoe Bend & the Final Stretch of Glen Canyon Trip Today!
Call us at 1-800-253-7328 or click the button below to start your adventure!
River Mile 0-280
Rafting the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River
The Grand Canyon Rafting Experience
280 Miles of Adventure
From Lee’s Ferry to Lake Mead, the Colorado River flows through the depths of the Grand Canyon, creating a thrilling mix of roaring rapids and peaceful stretches of calm water.
Legendary Rapids
Rapids form where debris from side canyons has been washed into the river. These range from gentle riffles to powerful whitewater rapids, delivering an exhilarating ride.
Breathtaking Scenery
Between the rapids, the river slows, allowing time to gaze up at sheer cliffs of polished granite and fluted schist. Around every bend, new and unexpected vistas unfold—towering rock formations, hidden waterfalls, and colorful desert landscapes.
Beyond the River: Exploring the Grand Canyon
Daily Off-River Hiking
Grand Canyon rafting isn’t just about the river; it’s about discovering the wonders hidden within the canyon’s side canyons and plateaus. Our commitment to off-river exploration means guests experience spectacular hikes that many other travelers miss.
Hidden Waterfalls & Natural Pools
Some trails lead to cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush vegetation, where tropical monkey flowers bloom alongside desert cacti.
Ancient Sites & Panoramic Views
Other hikes take you to Ancestral Puebloan ruins, historic landmarks, and high plateaus with sweeping views of the canyon’s vast expanse.
Wilderness Walks
Not every hike has a destination—sometimes the best experiences come from simply walking cross-country, taking in the diverse flora and fauna of the Grand Canyon.
Why Raft the Grand Canyon with Us?
Whether you’re looking for a whitewater adventure or a multi-day journey through one of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth, rafting the Grand Canyon is an experience like no other.
The Ultimate Colorado River Experience
Witness the Grand Canyon from its most breathtaking vantage point: the river itself.
Unforgettable Whitewater & Scenic Floats
A perfect balance of thrilling rapids and peaceful, scenic stretches.
Exclusive Hiking Opportunities
Explore hidden gems and see places that most Grand Canyon travelers never experience.
Immersive Wilderness Adventure
Disconnect from the outside world and experience the canyon up close and personal.
Book Your Rafting the Grand Canyon Today!
Call us at 1-800-253-7328 or click the button below to start your adventure!
Your Path Begins Here
Westwater Canyon
Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Ranch & Raft Map
The Final Stretch to the Sea of Cortez
Historically, the Colorado River flowed freely into the Sea of Cortez, creating a lush delta teeming with wildlife. Today, due to extensive water usage and diversion, the river rarely reaches the sea. When water flows remain, the Colorado completes its long journey, reconnecting with the ocean and sustaining the delicate ecosystems of its delta.
This lower section of the river tells the story of human influence—how the Colorado River, once a wild and untamed force, has been transformed to meet the water and power needs of the Southwest.
More About the Colorado River
