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Activity Moab, USA

Cataract Canyon

5.0 (3 reviews) 5 days
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Cataract Canyon

About this activity

This 120-mile expedition takes you through the renowned Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park. It offers some of the wildest, most exciting whitewater in the country during the months of May, June, and early July, when the spring run-off fills the canyon's watercourse with raging torrents. From July to October, the river calms itself with lower water but is by no means placid. Later summer offers pristine sandbars and warm water.

Out Cataract expeditions float you past the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers through the challenging rapids of Cataract Canyon in the midst of Canyonlands.

Whether you are looking at the 3, 4, or 5-day Cataract Canyon adventure, you will experience some unforgettable memories. All three options take you through the heart of Canyonlands National Park, via the Colorado River. We run Cataract Canyon either on our motorized J-Rig or via one of our 18-foot oar rafts.

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At a glance

Duration
5 days
Confirmation
Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 15 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English
Operated by
Adrift Adventures

Ages: Youth (7–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Professional guide
  • Included: National Park fees
  • Included: All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Included: Snacks
  • Included: Lunch
  • Included: Dinner
  • Included: Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
  • Included: Breakfast
  • Included: Beverages

Not included

  • Not included: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Not included: Gratuities
  • Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Not included: Return Transportation (extra charges will apply)

Itinerary

Day 1 · Meet the crew

  1. Adrift Adventures

    Passing by

    Meet at Adrift Adventures at the Moab office, 378 N. Main at 7:15 a.m. with a 7:30 a.m. departure. Leave your vehicle in our parking lot and be transported to the river put-in via Adrift Adventures. Your first day will cover the flat waters of the Colorado River. There will be a few hikes ranging from five minutes to half an hour, to beak up the day. You will visit ancient Anasazi ruins, pictographs, and petroglyphs over a thousand years in age. The camp is located on the banks of the river; you’re welcome to visit our library on the river or partake in horseshoes, volleyball, or a little backgammon

Camp along the mighty Colorado in a tent or under the stars Camoing gear included

Day 2 · Drifter

  1. Dead Horse Point State Park

    Passing by

    Your second day has you within the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Views of Dead Horse Point State Park and the Indian ruins of Lathrop Canyon will amaze you. You drift all day long, enjoying the sights. There is ample time for off-river hiking and points of interest. Your first two days are quiet, as you float through and marvel at the wind-sculpted sandstone cliffs, with their spires and pinnacles, mesas, and amphitheaters. You will camp on the banks of the river again

Camp along the mighty Colorado in a tent or under the stars Camoing gear included

Day 3 · Confluence day

  1. Green River

    Passing by

    An early morning hike over the loop with boats awaiting you on the other side to float to the Confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers. Below this point awaits the heart of Cataract Canyon! You will experience the first few rapids, floating past the Doll House area, where outlaws used to hide out, ending the day with yet another exciting night of camping on the river’s bank.

Camp along the mighty Colorado in a tent or under the stars Camoing gear included

Day 4 · How about those Rapids

  1. Canyonlands National Park

    Passing by

    More Cataract Canyon rapids await! The remainder of the day will be spent in the Mile Long and the Big Drop series of rapids. The Big Drops offer some of the wildest rapids in the country; these are just a taste of the day’s adventures.

Camp along the mighty Colorado in a tent or under the stars Camoing gear included

Day 5 · Our journey Ends but the memories remain

  1. Lake Powell

    Passing by

    : Early morning brings more tales of the preceding day’s events through Cataract. We will motor through Lake Powell. The trip will end at Hite Marina in the early afternoon. Chartered transportation awaits your arrival and you’ll be back in Moab from approximately 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. There is an option of a return flight (50 minutes) or return van ride (2.5 hrs.), both will get you back to Moab.

Camp along the mighty Colorado in a tent or under the stars Camoing gear included

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Departure Point: Adrift Adventures

    Address: 378 North Main St.

    Moab, Utah

    84532

End point

  • Departure Point: Adrift Adventures

    Address: 378 North Main St.

    Moab, Utah

    84532

Using your ticket

  • If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
  • Not recommended for participants with back problems
  • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
  • Not recommended for pregnant women

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

If you cancel You get back
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult

  • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 3 reviews
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Cataract Canyon

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