A Guide to the Best Colorado River Rafting trips

Experience the adventure of a lifetime with Colorado River & Trail Expeditions! We offer unforgettable Colorado River rafting trips through Utah and Arizona, where you’ll navigate thrilling rapids, explore breathtaking desert landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the American Southwest.

From the Colorado-Utah border to Lake Mead, the Colorado River winds through some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth, including Canyonlands National Park and Grand Canyon National Park. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding rapids or a scenic float, we have the perfect rafting trip for you.

The Colorado River: A Natural Wonder

Stretching 1,450 miles, the Colorado River originates in the Rocky Mountains at La Poudre Pass and flows through diverse landscapes before reaching the Colorado Plateau. As it carves its way through Grand Valley, Ruby Canyon, and Horsethief Canyons, it creates an unparalleled playground for rafters of all experience levels.

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. Grand Canyon Rafting – The Ultimate Colorado River Adventure

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:

2. Cataract Canyon – Big Water, Big Adventure

Best for:  Large Rapids during spring run-off.  The best way to see Canyonlands National Park.
Rapids: 30+ rapids, including Brown Betty, Big Drops, & Satan’s Gut.
Highlights: Stunning red rock landscapes, off-river hikes, and beautiful sand beaches in Cataract Canyon.

3. Westwater Canyon (River Mile 128-111) – Short, Exciting & Scenic

Best for:  The best overnight river trip in the world.
Rapids:  Class III-IV rapids, including Skull, Funnel Falls & Sock-It-To-Me.
Highlights:  Towering canyon walls, wildlife, and historical outlaw hideouts

4. Fisher Towers / Moab Daily (River Mile 88-74) – Family-Friendly Fun

Best for:  First-time rafters, families, and scenic half-day to full-day trips.
Rapids:  Mild Class I-II rapids, great for all ages.
Highlights:  Red rock formations, easy rapids, and great swimming spots.

5. Horseshoe Bend / Glen Canyon (River Mile 15-0) – Scenic Float Through a Natural Wonder

Best for: A peaceful, calm water float with incredible views.
Rapids: None – a smooth, relaxing ride.
Highlights: The iconic Horseshoe Bend, towering canyon walls, and crystal-clear waters.