"Wilderness is not a luxury,
but a necessity of the human spirit" - Edward Abbey

What to Expect for 2023

As we look back over the past 2 years, we are grateful that our proactive mitigation plans, combined with the efforts of local governments and communities have allowed thousands to come and experience the healing nature of the river! We thank those who traveled with us and look forward to hosting all who are planning to join us on an upcoming adventure.

Through the 2020-2022 seasons, we put in place additional precautions and procedures to help our guests feel more comfortable and confident in their decision to venture out with us. We will continue to develop and update those procedures as needed.

We believe that experiencing the outdoors with loved ones is an important part of providing people with a sense of connection, interaction, and celebration. We’re looking forward to welcoming all those who have already booked with us and those who are seeking the perfect vacation for this next summer!

Staying Healthy While on Your Trip

We've worked hard to create an environment where all our guests can feel comfortable traveling with Western River Expeditions. Additional protocols and procedures were added to several parts of the operation, while many others were already built-in. We will continue to update our protocols as needed for future trips, improving and adapting what we've been practicing thus far.

Additional Cleaning & Sanitation

Additional precautions and procedures have been implemented to further clean and disinfect commonly-shared surfaces and equipment.

Meal Preparation & Outdoor Dining

In addition to existing food-handlers certifications, guides ensure that hand-washing stations are available to all guests at camp.

Hand Washing & Hand Sanitizing

While we make every effort to have hand soap and sanitizer frequently available, we encourage guests to also bring their own.

Updated Participation Requirements

Based on current guidelines from the CDC and government agencies, we will continue to update our protocols on each of our trips as needed.

Planning for your Upcoming Adventure

We excited to be operating all departures for the 2023 season in Grand Canyon, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Costa Rica. Whether you’re already booked on a 2023 trip with us or thinking about an outdoor escape in the coming months, you can look forward to an unforgettable experience.

Map of rivers in the western united states

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon 6 & 7 Day Expeditions »

On this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, experience astounding views of hidden waterfalls, ancient Indian ruins, lush hanging gardens, and magnificent overlooks. Raft the best whitewater on the Colorado River and savor calm moments on the river to reflect and renew.

Learn More & Check Availability

Grand Canyon 3-Day Expedition »

Experience 3 days rafting Grand Canyon in the lower 100 miles of the canyon. Moderate, but still exciting white water on this stretch of Grand Canyon makes this trip a perfect introduction to rafting and camping without sacrificing any Grand Canyon grandeur.

Learn More & Check Availability

Grand Canyon 4-Day Expedition »

Combine your 3-day Grand Canyon vacation with one day and night at a working cattle ranch perched high on the rim of the Grand Canyon. Not only will you raft the grandest canyon in the world, but you'll also enjoy horseback riding, Western entertainment and much more.

Learn More & Check Availability

Moab, Utah

Cataract Canyon Classic 4-Day Expedition »

Experience an all-inclusive 4 day rafting journey through Utah's legendary Cataract Canyon just outside of Moab Utah. Exciting whitewater combined with the indescribable scenery of Canyonlands National Park make this an ideal river trip.

Learn More & Check Availability

Cataract Canyon Express 2 Day »

High-speed, custom rafts allow you to journey through the Colorado River's legendary 100-mile Cataract Canyon in just 2 days–perfect for those with busy schedules yearning for a quick, but refreshing dose of adventure.

Learn More & Check Availability

Desolation Canyon 5-Day Expedition »

A remarkable wilderness of twisted mountains, dramatic cliffs, and towering plateaus carved by an ancient inland sea, the Green River through Desolation Canyon offers one of America's favorite rafting trips. Comfortable summer water temperatures, over 60 fun-filled rapids, and rich human history make this the ideal getaway.

Learn More & Check Availability

Southwest Sampler 4 Day: Arches National Park & Colorado River »

Sample the "best of the Southwest" on this 4-day, 3-night getaway. Spend 2 relaxing nights in luxurious comfort at the Marriott SpringHill. Explore Arches National Park, then, as the sun sinks low you'll climb to new heights with an off-road Hummer® Safari. Top it off with 2 days and 1 night of Colorado River rafting in famously-filmed Castle Valley.

Learn More & Check Availability

Westwater Multisport 4 Day: Colorado River & Red Cliffs Lodge »

Raft the mighty Colorado River through Westwater Canyon - named by National Geographic Adventurer as "the West's best short whitewater trip". Explore Moab's breathtaking backcountry on an exhilarating Hummer® Safari. Each night you'll revel in the luxurious comfort of Red Cliffs Lodge located on the banks of the Colorado River surrounded by two of America's most astounding National Parks.

Learn More & Check Availability

Idaho

Snake River Hells Canyon 4 & 5 Day Expeditions »

Discover the biggest whitewater rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Here mountains of golden grass and pine forests topped with snow-capped peaks are home to soaring eagles, wild mountain goats and Native American legends.

Learn More & Check Availability

Main Salmon 5 Day Expedition »

Experience 5 days exploring Idaho's rugged and astounding wilderness. More moderate but exciting whitewater on this stretch of canyon makes this river trip a perfect introduction to rafting and camping without sacrificing any of the grandeur.

Learn More & Check Availability

Lower Salmon 5 Day Expedition »

Discover the perfect family adventure complete with huge sandy camping beaches and a dedicated "River Jester" who entertains the children with nature hikes and fun activities, providing the perfect blend of whitewater and relaxation.

Learn More & Check Availability

Middle Fork of the Salmon River 5 & 6 Day Expeditions »

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho is considered one of America's best rafting destinations. It begins as a small mountain stream that quickly grows into a rushing river with several major rapids - over 100 rapids in 100 miles.

Learn More & Check Availability

Oregon

Rogue River 3 & 4 Day Lodge to Lodge Adventure »

Rafting the Rogue River in Oregon is an American Classic. A special lodge to lodge itinerary makes this one of the most unique rafting vacations anywhere. With abundant wildlife and natural beauty, this Oregon rafting trip is a must-do!

Learn More & Check Availability

Costa Rica

Costa Rica 9-Day Vacation Package »

Experience the hidden jungles of Costa Rica along the Pacuare River. Relax at the world-renowned Pacuare Lodge. Relax in the hot springs at the base of the Arenal Volcano spend some time at the beach in Manuel Antonio National Park. We are currently planning to operate trips from this point forward. Please note, however, that guidelines and requirements regarding pre-testing and insurance may apply internationally.

Learn More & Check Availability

Keep Calm and Raft On...

We are grateful to our amazing guests who have been so understanding and supportive through the challenges this past years. Their kindness and optimism has been truly phenomenal.

We will continue updating this information as we learn more. We hope that together we can continue to adapt to change, face the unexpected, stay calm under pressure, and embrace uncertainty. These are hallmarks honed by both our Western River team and our travelers over the past 60 years. They will serve us well as we continue to do the best we can for ourselves, our families, and our team.

Sincerely,

Brian I. Merrill
Chief Executive Officer
And the entire crew at Western