double clickDesolation Canyon - Travel Planning Resources
Travel Planning Page
Desolation Canyon, Green River 5 Day

Desolation Canyon, Green River Travel Planning

  • BEGINS: [See email confirmation for departure time] - SpringHill Suites, Moab, UT
  • TRIP LENGTH: 5 days, 84 miles
  • MINIMUM AGE: 5
  • FEATURING: Desolation Canyon
  • RAFTING: Moderate class II-III rapids are perfect for the whole family
  • BOAT TYPE: Oar Rigs & Inflatable Kayaks
  • HIKING: Short walks & longer hikes over moderate terrain (all optional)
  • CAMPING: Cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs & water-resistant bag
  • MEALS: All meals are prepared for you between departure & return
  • SCENIC FLIGHT: Airport transfer & flight from Moab, Utah to the river at Sand Wash
  • TRANSFERS: Bus return to Moab from Green River
  • ENDS: Approximately 2:30 PM - SpringHill Suites, Moab, UT

Western River page divider

Desolation Canyon Travel Route

Desolation Canyon Travel Route

Physical Requirements on a Desolation Canyon Trip

Please consider carefully any medical or health condition that would endanger yourself, or others on the trip, or diminish the enjoyment of an adventure vacation such as this. Factors of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease can become exacerbated by the environment, remote distances from a hospital, and physical challenges of a rafting adventure. It is critical that you are in reasonable health and physical fitness at the time of departure so that our staff can focus their attention equally on all trip participants.

Read More about Physical Requirements

Itinerary & Travel Details

Winding through 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. A spectacular scenic flight from Moab, Utah lands you atop a dramatic desert plateau where your Utah rafting adventure begins. You’ll surrender your senses to nature as you’re enveloped by 40 million years of geologic history. Explore Utah’s famous outlaw hideouts, ancient dinosaur habitats, and Fremont Native American petroglyphs. Discover the thrill of Green River whitewater. More moderate rapids on this section of the Green River allow you to experience paddling a 2-person inflatable kayak or relax in an oar boat while Western’s guides take you down river. Comfortable summer water temperatures and over 60 fun-filled rapids make this Green River rafting trip the ideal getaway for your next adventure.

Note: The outlined itinerary is provided as a sample. Daily activities and sights will vary based on weather conditions and guide preferences.

DAY PRIOR »
You may purchase last-minute retail items at Western River’s Moab Adventure Center located at 225 South Main Street (sunscreen, clothing items, hats, etc.)
DAY ONE »

Check out of your hotel, and meet in the lobby of the Marriott SpringHill Suites Moab the morning of your trip. [CHECK CONFIRMATION FOR EXACT DEPARTURE TIME]. Experience a breathtaking morning flight over the canyons of the Green River, landing atop a spectacular desert plateau. Enjoy a beautiful hike or van ride to the river’s edge. Launch onto a calm stretch of the Green River, perfect for swimming and relaxing. Before your first delectable camp dinner, explore the area, play a game or just relax and soak in the soothing beauty of Utah’s Desolation Canyon while your guides do all the cooking.

DAYS TWO & THREE »

Awaken to a hearty breakfast and hike a short distance to 1,000-year-old Fremont Native American petroglyphs or maybe an old moonshiner’s hideout. Savor a delicious riverside buffet lunch. Then, climb aboard your oar boat and let your guide pilot you through several exciting Green River rapids, or you and a partner may chose to paddle your own inflatable kayak.

DAY FOUR »

Hike to a historic homestead rich in folklore and outlaw history. Run Wire Fence and Three Fords rapids, among the biggest whitewater on the Green River. Float out of Desolation Canyon, and enter scenic Gray Canyon, traversing 40 million years of geologic history in the blink of an eye. Savor another night camping under the innumerable stars of the astounding southern Utah sky.

DAY FIVE »

After a restful night under the stars, you’ll awaken to relish your last morning in the canyon. Even by your final day, you will be amazed at how surreal it is to wake up with the first rays of sun gently spreading through the shadows of the Green River’s towering cliffs. You’ll enjoy a riverside breakfast then set off for more whitewater excitement interspersed with calm stretches for swimming and occasional waterfights. After lunch, you’ll celebrate your successful journey and return with a 1-hour bus ride to Moab, Utah (arriving approximately 3:00 PM).

Western River page divider

WHERE/WHEN TO MEET

Moab Marriott Entrance

Meet at SpringHill Suites »

LOCATION: 1863 N. Hwy 191, Moab, UT
Early on the morning of your river trip, you'll meet in the lobby of SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Moab.

Departure Time: Boarding begins at 6:15 AM and bus departs at 6:30 AM
A 15 minute drive will take you to the Moab Airport where you will be taken to Sand Wash where the rafting trip will begin.

Return Time: approximately 3:00 PM

NOTE: For those choosing to stay somewhere other than SpringHill Suites, it is your responsibility to arrive at the designated time and place mentioned above.

Staying at Springhill Suites

Located 5 miles from Arches National Park and 2.5 miles from downtown Moab, Springhill Suites by Marriott is the meeting location for your expedition.

SpringHill Suites & Western River Block Reservations »

TIP: Plan at least 1 night before and after your trip. See section "While in Moab..." for more reasons to stay a bit longer.

Western River has secured a certain quantity of rooms at special rates for our guests. Rooms and rates are available up to 45 days prior to trip departure; after this date, discounted rates may be offered based on availability. Please make your lodging reservations online as soon as possible. If you experience any difficulties using this link, please call Springhill Suites at 435-355-0042 to reserve, and mention the Western River Expeditions code AEPK.

Book Your Room

Notes from SpringHill Suites »

  • COMPLIMENTARY PARKING for all guests of Western River - even for guests not staying at SpringHill Suites.
  • BAG STORAGE Guests of SpringHill will receive complimentary storage for up to two bags per room. Additional bags may be stored at the hotel for $10 per bag per day. Non-SpringHill guest bag storage is available for $10 per bag per day.
  • HOT BREAKFAST BUFFET is complimentary only for overnight guests of SpringHill Suites. Other guests may purchase breakfast at the front desk.
  • RENTAL CAR CONVENIENCE When you rent a car with Canyonlands Jeep & Car Rental (Moab Airport), you may leave your rental at the SpringHill parking lot for pickup while you are on the river. Leave keys with front desk, or Western employee at check-in.

Welcome to Moab! What you Need to Know...

We can't wait to get you here. Here are a few things that will help you make the most of your time in Utah, especially in our beautiful (big) corner of the state: Moab, Utah.

Getting to Town from the Airport »

No Taxi Moab

Free hotel shuttles are still not available in Moab. Taxis, ubers and shuttle services are pricey in groups, and not fully reliable.

Canyonlands Jeep and Car Rental truly is the best way to get to town- even if you're leaving first thing in the morning for a rafting trip. Canyonlands will pick your rental up from the Marriott! You just park it at the Marriott, go rafting, and voila!

NOTE: The Marriott is 2.5 miles north of town.) You will still want a car to grab dinner or last minute items before your river trip in the morning.

Reserve Canyonlands Car Rental

Get Thyself to Moab, Thyself!

In any big city airport, you may expect to hail a taxi, or text an Uber. Not so in Moab...at least not yet.

Your overnight chariot awaits!

Canyonlands Jeep & Car Rental

Western River page divider

While You're in Moab

Moab Marriott Queen Beds

How Many Nights Should You Plan to Reserve? »

Minimum 1 Night Before - Plan to arrive at least the day before your rafting trip because departure times are early the next morning.

Minimum 1 Night After - Plan to stay at least one night AFTER your river trip. Here's why: a shower. Rafting expeditions change your perspective, which is both exhausting AND refreshing, but so is the fresh shower and night's rest you'll get upon your return to Moab!

Southwest Vacation Package Hummer 8

Adding a Few More Days in Moab »

Add 1 or 2 days before or after - You may be surprised at how much more you can pack into your Moab vacation by adding just one or two days before or after your river trip. We are talking brag-worthy, adventure-extending itinerary additions like Arches National Park (that gives you two National Parks in one trip), Hell's Revenge 4x4 Hummer Safari, Canyoneering into hidden grottoes, hot air ballooning...

Glad we added it!

My family (2 adults and 2 children) took a Hummer safari into Hell’s Revenge. Our guide, George, gave us a great ride. He engaged our children with humor and facts about the landscape and made us feel safe throughout the excursion. He also gave us some thrills along the way. I definitely recommend this trip, our excellent guide, and Moab Adventure Center.

Jerry H.

Western River page divider

Top Recommendations to Add to Your River Trip

Arches National Park

Arches National Park »

Arches National Park is just three minutes from the Marriott Hotel. Because of the new timed-entry reservation system you can't drive yourself spontaneously into Arches. You can, however book a guided bus tour that will maximize your time (AM and PM departures). In most cases, you can be picked up right from your hotel.

Arches National Park Morning Adventure

Hummer Safari Hells Revenge Trail

Sunset Hummer Safari »

You may be able to book the "Sunset Safari" the evening before your rafting trip, depending on your arrival time in Moab.

Hummer Sunset Safari

Canyoneering in Ephedra's Grotto

Canyoneering »

Morning or afternoon departures take you deep into the landscape, literally. It's a half-day commitment, but worth the bragging rights, for sure. Imagine rappelling into a hidden grotto and then off a giant rock arch. The hike out is a delight by its own right.

Canyoneering Adventure

Hot Air Ballooning in Moab

​ Hot Air Ballooning »

The early morning start of these 3 hour balloon adventures may allow time for other adventures in the day

Hot Air Balloon Sunrise Adventure

Full List of Moab Adventures »

Southwest Vacation Package Arches Window Use the "Things to Do in Moab" page to explore the possibilities in Moab. Adding one or two more days to your stay and pack in so many more brag-worthy adventures to your itinerary!

Adventures in Moab

Expedition Guide

Expedition Guide & Packing List

Want to download (almost all) of this info?

The Expedition Guide for each trip contains the packing list, and most of the info seen on this page. Combine the "offline" handiness of the Expedition Guide with the online resources of this travel planning page.

Keep the PDF on your phone, or print it out for dashboard reference as you pull into town. See who else you spot with this handy guide on their dash around town. They're smart, cool, savvy travelers. Just like you!

Download Guide

How to Pack for your Cataract Canyon Rafting Vacation

Get a better idea of each of the items on your packing list. See an example of each item and understand why we recommend you pack it for the river.


PACKING LIST

Packing the Best Camera for Rafting

Choosing the right camera for whitewater rafting is an important decision. With so many options out there, we discuss the pros and cons of the more common cameras we see on the river.

Do you REALLY need "Quality" Rain Gear?

Western River Expeditions sent two of our intrepid guides to answer the question once and for all: "What is Quality Rain Gear and Why Do I Need it?"

The Morning of Your Rafting Trip

  • Check out of your accommodations & eat a good breakfast
  • Meet in the lobby of SpringHill Suites by Marriott
  • Check Confirmation for exact departure time
  • Come dressed and ready to raft (see diagram on Packing List)

Items Provided by Western River Expeditions
  • Transportation from Moab, Utah to the river
  • Professional, licensed guides
  • All meals between trip departure and return
  • All eating utensils and souvenir insulated bottle
  • Unlimited water and lemonade
  • Freshly laundered sleeping bag and sheet
  • Cot (28” x 74”)
  • Tent and ground cover
  • Water-resistant dry bag for sleeping gear and personal duffle bag
  • Custom rafts
  • US Coastguard approved whitewater life jackets
  • Wilderness First-Aid kit
  • Sanitary Facilities
Get the Gear with Redrock Outfitters

Through several decades of experience on the river, Western knows what clothing and gear will keep you smiling every second of your adventure. For your convenience, you can order all these items online with Western’s retail division Red Rock Outfitters.

Things to Bring on the River
  • Duffle bag (approx. 12”x13”x24”), packed with clothing, toiletries, personal items outlined on the Cataract Canyon packing list
  • Extra drinks, if desired. No glass containers. Water and lemonade are provided.
  • Utah State Liquor Store (beer, wine) – 55 West 200 South (closed Sundays)
  • City Market (beer, soda, etc) -- 425 South Main Street
  • Extra snacks, if desired. (Snacks will be provided during the trip)
  • Photo ID, a major credit card, and cash for gratuities.
  • Camera(s) - Phones as cameras in waterproof cases/sleeves (Cell service unavailable)
Things NOT to bring on the River
  • Car keys can be left at your hotel front desk, or with stored luggage while away
  • Unnecessary electronic devices (game devices for kids, etc.)
Valuables
You will want to have photo ID, a major credit card, and some cash for gratuities. All other valuables and jewelry should be left at home or in a safety deposit box at your hotel. In addition, as a safety precaution we suggest that you not wear rings on the river. Also, each year a few of our guests traveling on airlines arrive without luggage. With this in mind, we suggest you carry with you medications, prescription glasses, and anything you may not be able to replace the evening before your trip departs.
Extra Luggage
Transfer all your personal clothing and gear which you will need on your rafting trip to a small, lightweight duffle bag. Identify duffle bag with label, and leave any extra suitcases or luggage in your vehicle or at the hotel. Marriott SpringHill Suites provides complimentary parking and luggage storage upon request. Please DO NOT BRING SUITCASES on your river trip. As part of your camping equipment package, we provide a water-resistant bag in which you will place your duffle bag as well as the sleeping bag that we provide.
Western River page divider

Western River page divider

Rafts on the Desolation Canyon 5 Day

The family friendly rapids of the Green River afford the opportunity to paddle your own inflatable kayak in addition to riding aboard a comfortable oar rig piloted by Western’s skilled guides.

The Oar Rig

Western’s guides adeptly maneuver four to six passenger oar rigs. These specially designed 18-foot boats offer a comfortable ride and are “self-bailing” which means that any water that comes into the raft immediately flows back out.

Oar Rig
Western River page divider

Inflatable Kayak (Duckie)

Also known as a “duckie” or “duck,” these two-person inflatable kayaks let you challenge the rapids on your own. They also provide a peaceful and relaxing way to recline and gaze up at the spectacular scenery in the calm stretches of river. If you’ve never paddled before, acquiring some basic paddle skills with the help of a guide takes only a few minutes. Inflatable kayaks are available throughout the trip and guests can take turns enjoying the ride.

Inflatable Kayak