What Makes Westwater Canyon a Must-Raft Section of the Colorado River?

Three people in orange life vests on a raft navigate a river through a canyon. Cloudy sky.

1. Exciting Whitewater Rapids

The Colorado River picks up speed as it carves through the narrow, rock-walled gorge of Westwater Canyon, delivering a series of legendary rapids. Be prepared for the adrenaline rush of Marble Canyon Rapid, Skull Rapid, Funnel Falls, Sock-It-To-Me, and Last Chance Rapid. The rapids are more technical at medium to low flows, offering a dynamic rafting experience year-round.

2. Stunning Canyon Scenery

Westwater Canyon is a visual masterpiece. As you raft through this stretch of the Colorado River, you’ll see:

  • Towering red rock cliffs of Wingate Sandstone.
  • Precambrian Black Rock formations—some of the oldest exposed rock in North America (similar to those found at the bottom of the Grand Canyon).
  • Desert wildlife, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and bighorn sheep.

3. Rich History & Hidden Landmarks

This section of the Colorado River is filled with fascinating historical sites:

  • An early 1900s dugout cabin, believed to have been used by gold prospectors.
  • A mysterious cave, rumored to have housed outlaws and counterfeiters.
  • Stories of early explorers like Bert Loper and Ellsworth Kolb, who first navigated this canyon in 1916.

4. Relaxing Scenic Floats & Riverside Camping

After the rapids, the river calms, offering time to float in your lifejacket and soak in the incredible desert landscape. For multi-day rafting trips, Big Horn Camp is a favorite camping spot, featuring a sandy beach nestled among ancient Precambrian rock formations.

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 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 (800) 253-7328



< Older Post

Newer Post >

More About the What Makes Westwater Canyon a Must-Raft Section of the Colorado River?

Night Sky on the Colorado River with the Milky Way and night sky cliffs.

Half the Park Is After Dark: Why the Night Sky Matters on a Grand Canyon River Trip

By Walker Mackay • March 23, 2026
Half the Grand Canyon happens after sunset. See why the night sky—stars, silence, and space—defines the river trip experience.
Avon rafts camped at the confluence of the Tatshenshini and Alsek Rivers on a sunny warm day.

Tatshenshini–Alsek vs the Grand Canyon: Two of the Greatest River Trips in the World, Shaped by Completely Different Landscapes

By Walker Mackay • March 19, 2026
Grand Canyon vs. Tatshenshini–Alsek: two legendary river journeys shaped by desert and ice. Discover how each delivers a completely different wilderness experience.
Rafting on a river with mountains and glacier in background. People paddle on a raft.

Why the Tatshenshini is one of the Last True Wilderness River Trips on Earth

By Walker Mackay • March 10, 2026
The Tatshenshini River offers one of the last true wilderness rafting expeditions on Earth—glaciers, wildlife, and untouched landscapes in Alaska and Canada.