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CATARACT CANYON, UTAH
Cataract Canyon Express: 2-Day Whitewater Trip
★★★★★ 4.9 OUT OF 2841 REVIEWS
Cataract Canyon Express is one of the best trips because of the convenience of two days one night, but also you get to see the 100 plus miles that we run through here. Hard to describe the sheer beauty of this place. From the first few hours of this trip, we entered Canyonlands National Park. It's a very unique experience to be able to see just the grandeur of these canyon walls from the river. Canyonlands National Park is a designated dark skies park, so we get incredible stargazing. Cataract Canyon has some of the best white water in North America. The boats are really cool. You know, we take the snout boats. We can go into some really big waves that not all boats can go into. It is really exhilarating. It's just one adrenaline rush after another. The mix of archaeology, geology, and white water, it's just a magical experience.
Experience Cataract Canyon’s biggest whitewater, Canyonlands National Park, and a night beside the Colorado River in just two days, while still leaving time for more Moab adventures.
Trip Details
DEPOSIT
$250 per person to secure your spot
DURATION
2 Days, 1 Night
BEGINS & ENDS
Moab, Utah
TIME OF YEAR
May – June
GROUP SIZE
Up to 12 Guests
MINIMUM AGE
Age 12
Highlights
- Run nearly 30 Class III–V rapids through Cataract Canyon, including Capsize, the Big Drops, Mile Longs, Little Niagara, and Satan's Gut. Rapid conditions vary with water levels.
- Travel 95 miles of the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park in just 2 days.
- Explore Native American cultural sites and take in views of Canyonlands National Park.
- Spend one night camping beside the Colorado River, with cots, sleeping bags, tents, camp chairs, and meals provided.
- Experience one of the darkest, most pristine night skies in the American West.
- Wake to a hot riverside breakfast before continuing through Cataract Canyon toward Lake Powell.
- Choose the Express when you want Cataract Canyon's whitewater and wilderness experience but only have two days. Choose the 4-Day Cataract Canyon trip for a slower pace and more time for hikes, camping, and exploring the canyon.
What’s Included
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Professional River Guides
Highly trained, professional guides who navigate legendary rapids, lead guided hikes, prepare exceptional meals, and handle every detail from launch to take-out.
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Meals & Drinks
All meals from departure through return, plus snacks, water, and lemonade.
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Camping Gear
Quality cots, sleeping bags, tents, camp chairs, waterproof dry bags, and everything needed for comfortable backcountry nights on the river.
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Transportation
Bus transportation from Moab, Utah to the river put-in on Day 1. Ground shuttle return from Lake Powell back to Moab at the end of Day 2. Every handoff fully coordinated from start to finish.
What’s Not Included
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Travel to Moab and Lodging
Transportation to Moab and hotel stays before or after your river trip. Western River provides recommended lodging information after you reserve.
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Alcoholic Beverages & Soda
Beer, wine, liquor and soda are not provided. You may purchase your own in Moab before the trip. No glass containers are allowed on the river.
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Guide Gratuities
Gratuities are not included and are always at your discretion. A common practice is 10-15% of your trip cost which is shared between all guides.
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Taxes & Fees
Any applicable taxes and fees.
Download Your Cataract Canyon Express Expedition Guide
Get river maps, itinerary details, camping and weather information, physical requirements, packing lists, and more in one place. Review it as you plan or easily share it with your group.
Limited Availability:
The Cataract Canyon Express operates within Canyonlands National Park on a limited number of permit dates each season and is capped at just 12 guests per departure. With only 2 days required, the Express is the most efficient path to Cataract Canyon's legendary whitewater, and many guests book months ahead to secure their preferred dates. If you're working around a tight schedule, early planning ensures the best availability.
Explore Cataract
Canyon in
360°
95 Miles of the Colorado River in 2 Days
Cataract Canyon is one of North America's most concentrated stretches of whitewater. The Colorado River drops through nearly 30 Class III–V rapids, including Capsize, the Big Drops, Mile Longs, Little Niagara, Satan's Gut, and more, all stacked back-to-back through a canyon that deepens to more than 2,000 feet inside Canyonlands National Park.
The Express trip makes this remarkable wilderness accessible in just two days by combining two distinctly different modes of river travel: A thrilling high-speed jetboat ride carries you swiftly down the calm, shallow waters of the Colorado River to the head of Cataract Canyon, just below the Confluence. What follows is one of North America's premier guided rafting expeditions through the heart of Cataract Canyon's legendary whitewater.
LEGENDARY WHITEWATER
Run nearly 30 Class III–V rapids through Cataract Canyon, Capsize, the Big Drops, Mile Longs, Little Niagara, Satan's Gut, and more, back-to-back through Canyonlands National Park.
CALM + THRILLS
Cruise the Colorado's calm upper reaches by jetboat or Snout Rig, then trade speed for splash in Cataract Canyon's unforgettable whitewater aboard the Snout Rig or paddle rafts.
EXPERT RIVER GUIDES
Your guides navigate the whitewater, explain what to expect along the way, share the canyon's geology and history, prepare meals, and manage camp.
BEYOND THE WHITEWATER
Ancient Native American ruins and writings. Hikes to awe-inspiring vistas atop canyon plateaus. A 2,000-foot deep canyon accessible only from the river.
ONE NIGHT ON THE RIVER
Settle into a riverside camp with camping gear included and a dinner prepared by your guides. Wake to breakfast before continuing downstream.
MORE MOAB
Begin and end your trip in Moab, making the Express trip the easiest way to work whitewater adventure into a larger Moab, Utah vacation.
Cataract Canyon 2-Day Itinerary
The Cataract Canyon Express covers the same stretch of the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park as the Classic 4-Day, in half the time. The boat's speed and the focused two-day structure make it possible without sacrificing what matters: the canyon, the ruins, the rapids, and an overnight under one of the West's most extraordinary night skies. The outline below offers a general sense of how your days will flow. Depending on camp location and water conditions, the exact sequence may shift slightly.
DAY 1
Into Canyon Country
Depart Moab in the morning and begin your journey down the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park. Along the way, there may be time to stop for a hike or explore cultural sites before the canyon narrows and the whitewater begins. Rapids such as Capsize, Mile Long, the Big Drops, Little Niagara, and Satan’s Gut come in quick succession as you travel deeper into Cataract Canyon. Later, your guides choose a riverside camp, prepare dinner, and help you settle in for your one night beside the Colorado River.
DAY 2
Through Cataract Canyon and Back to Moab
Wake to breakfast prepared by your guides, break camp, and continue downstream. Depending on your camp location and river conditions, the morning may include additional whitewater before the canyon begins to open toward Lake Powell. At the take-out near Hite, board the ground shuttle for the return to Moab. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, with arrival back in Moab expected around mid-afternoon.
Your Cataract Canyon Raft
Your boat style depends on when you travel. Earlier in the season, the Express trip uses Western River’s high-speed Snout-Rig, designed to cover the 95-mile river corridor efficiently while giving guests different seating options through the whitewater.
Later in the season, you might travel the calmer upper Colorado River by jet boat, then switch to oar and paddle rafts near the Confluence for the whitewater through Cataract Canyon. Either way, you experience the full river corridor and
Cataract Canyon’s legendary rapids.
2-Day Cataract Canyon Reviews
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Reserve the River for Your Private Group
Select departures may be reserved exclusively for your family, friends, or organization. With space limited to 12 guests per trip and possibly 20 on some departures, a private charter lets you experience Cataract Canyon and Canyonlands National Park with just your group, while our experienced crew handles every detail.
Questions? Call (801) 459-3525
and talk to someone who has been there.
Planning Your Travel
Know Before You Go
These insights from the Western River team are candid considerations for this trip. We believe in being transparent so you can choose the best trip for you and your loved ones.
Physical Readiness & Participation
WATCH VIDEONo previous rafting or camping experience is required, but this is an active wilderness trip in a remote canyon. You should be in reasonably good health and comfortable getting in and out of rafts, moving around camp, and spending extended time outdoors. Hikes and walks may be offered along the way and are optional.
The minimum age is 12. If you have questions about your ability to participate, review the physical requirements or call us before booking.
Camping in Cataract Canyon
You’ll spend one night camping beside the Colorado River. There are no flush toilets or showers at camp, and cell service should not be expected. Your guides set up the camp kitchen and toilet system, prepare meals, and show you how everything works.
Cots, sleeping bags with sheets, tents, and camp chairs are provided. Tents are available, although sleeping beneath the open sky is part of the experience many guests enjoy.
Weather & River Conditions
The Express runs May through June and sometimes into July, during the peak high-water season on the Colorado River.
Come prepared for sun, heat, wind, rain, and changing conditions in the canyon. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible and can be dramatic in the canyon. Guides monitor conditions continuously and adjust decisions as needed.
Rapids & River Travel
Cataract Canyon contains nearly 30 Class III–V rapids, with their intensity depending on current water levels. Major rapids include Capsize, Mile Long, the Big Drops, Little Niagara, and Satan’s Gut.
The exact timing of the whitewater depends on river conditions and where your group camps, so the rapids are not necessarily all run on Day 1. Your guides explain what to expect as conditions change and provide instructions before the major whitewater.
The Group Experience
Cataract Express departures can accommodate up to 12 guests. Later-season trips may accommodate up to 20 guests because of a different boat configuration.
Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups all share the same two-day river experience, including meals, camp, hikes or stops, and the whitewater through Cataract Canyon.
Meeting in Moab, Utah
Your Cataract Canyon Express begins and ends in Moab. Meet at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott on the morning of Day 1, and Western River will transport you to the river and back to Moab at the end of Day 2.
The Moab Meeting Location & Time
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab
1863 N. Hwy 191, Moab, Utah
Meet in the hotel lobby on the morning of Day 1. Boarding begins at 7:15 AM and the bus departs at 7:30 AM. Plan to arrive in Moab at least the evening before your trip so you are ready for the early departure.
Always check your trip confirmation for your exact meeting time.
SpringHill Suites is about 2.5 miles north of downtown Moab. Staying there is convenient, but you may stay elsewhere as long as you arrive at the meeting location on time.
Plan to stay in Moab the night before your trip or longer. Many guests also stay a few nights after, giving them time to shower, relax, and enjoy more of Moab before traveling home.
SpringHill Suites Block Reservations
Western River has secured a block of rooms at special rates for 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.
- Book online through the link provided in your order confirmation. If you experience difficulties, call SpringHill Suites at 435-355-0042 and confirm that you are traveling with Western River Expeditions.
SpringHill Suites: Hotel Details
- Parking: Complimentary for all Western River guests, even guests not staying at SpringHill Suites.
- Bag Storage: Hotel guests receive complimentary storage for up to two bags per room. Additional bags are $10 per bag/per day. Non-guest bag storage is available at $10 per bag/per day.
- Hot Breakfast Buffet: Complimentary only for overnight guests of SpringHill Suites. Other guests may purchase breakfast at the front desk.
- Rental Car Convenience: When you rent with Canyonlands Jeep & Car Rental (Moab Airport), you may leave your rental at the SpringHill parking lot for pickup while you're on the river. Leave keys with the front desk or Western employee at check-in.
Getting to Moab
See our full page details on How to Get to Moab
Free airport shuttles are not available in Moab. Taxis and rideshares are limited and can be unreliable, especially for groups. Canyonlands Jeep & Car Rental is the most practical option. They'll pick up your rental from the SpringHill Suites parking lot while you're on the river. Just leave your keys at the front desk or with the Western employee at check-in. Reserve at canyonlandsjeep.com/westernriver or call (435) 259-4413.
Beverages & Last-Minute Supplies
Water and lemonade are provided in unlimited quantities on the river. Western does not provide beer, liquor, or soda.
No glass containers are allowed on the river. Purchase beverages before your trip at these Moab locations:
Utah State Liquor Store (beer, wine, liquor), 55 West 200 South (closed Sundays)
City Market (beer, soda, snacks), 425 South Main Street
Getting From Moab to the River
After boarding at SpringHill Suites, it's approximately a 30-minute drive to the Potash Boat Ramp on the Colorado River, where your guides and boats are waiting.
How to Dress for Your Departure
Arrive dressed and ready for the river in quick-dry clothing, secure water shoes or sandals, a sun hat, and sun protection. You'll be loading gear and getting on the river soon after reaching the launch site.
Returning to Moab
The trip ends at the take-out at North Wash, Lake Powell. Western's ground shuttle carries guests back to the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab, approximately a 3-hour drive through Utah's canyon country. Plan to arrive back in Moab between 2:00 and 4:00 pm on Day 2. You may also arrange to have a local shuttle company move your vehicle to the ending point if you'd prefer to drive back independently.
Spending Additional Time in Moab
Moab is worth building extra time for: Arches National Park, Hummer Sunset Safaris, canyoneering, hot air ballooning, and world-class mountain biking are all minutes from downtown.
Western River's Moab Adventure Center can arrange add-on activities before or after your trip and carries last-minute gear items like sunscreen, clothing, and hats.
Packing for Your Trip
Packing for Cataract Canyon is a little different from a typical vacation, but it’s straightforward. Bring the personal clothing and essentials on our packing list in a soft-sided duffle bag. Western River provides the camping gear and river equipment.
CATARACT CANYON EXPRESS
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the Cataract Canyon Express is right for me?
Choose the 2-Day Express if you want Cataract Canyon’s whitewater, Canyonlands scenery, and a night of river camping but have only two days to spend on the river. It’s especially well suited to travelers fitting a river trip into a larger Moab vacation. If you would rather spend more time exploring the canyon, hiking, and relaxing at camp, consider the 4-Day Classic.
How does the 2-Day Express compare with the 4-Day Classic?
Both trips travel the same 95-mile stretch of the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park and Cataract Canyon. The 2-Day Express moves through the river corridor at a faster pace with one night of camping and returns to Moab by ground shuttle. The 4-Day Classic gives you three nights on the river, more time for hikes and camp, and a scenic flight back to Moab. Choose the Express when time is the priority. Choose the Classic when you want more time immersed in the canyon and the national park.
How intense are the rapids?
Cataract Canyon contains nearly 30 Class III–V rapids, but their size and character change substantially with the Colorado River’s water level.
May and June generally bring higher, faster water and more powerful whitewater. By July, lower flows reveal more of the river’s rock features and the trip may transition to smaller oar and paddle rafts depending on water levels.
Your guides explain what to expect and give instructions before the major rapids. Whitewater rafting involves inherent risk, and guests should be physically prepared to actively participate if needed.
Does the Express include a flight back to Moab?
No. At the end of the Express, you’ll return to Moab by ground shuttle from the take-out near Hite. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours. The 4-Day Classic includes a scenic return flight over Canyonlands, which is one of the meaningful differences between the two trips.
What is camping like on the Express?
You’ll camp for one night beside the Colorado River. Western River provides a cot, sleeping bag with sheets, camp chair, and tent. Many guests choose to sleep outside under the stars when conditions allow.
Guides set up the camp kitchen and portable toilet system and show you how camp works. There are no showers, flush toilets, or cell service at river camp.
Can we reserve the Express for a private group?
Select departures may be available for private groups, families, friends, or organizations.
Capacity depends on the departure date and boat configuration. May and June trips accommodate up to 12 guests, while July departures may accommodate up to 20.
What are the physical requirements for this trip?
This is an active wilderness trip, and guests need to be in reasonable health and physical condition.
You must be able to properly wear the required Type V life jacket, securely hold the raft’s handholds through whitewater, get in and out of boats on uneven shorelines, walk over sand and rocks, carry your personal gear to camp, and actively swim toward the raft or shore if you unexpectedly enter the water.
Hikes are optional, but reasonable mobility is still important because river stops and camps can involve uneven, rocky, sandy, or steep terrain. If you have questions about your physical abilities or a medical condition, call Western River before booking.
What will we eat on the trip?
All meals from departure through return are included, along with snacks, water, and lemonade. Your guides prepare meals along the river, including dinner at camp and breakfast the following morning.
Western River can accommodate many dietary needs with advance notice. Let the reservation team know about dietary restrictions or serious food allergies when you book.
What should I pack?
Western River provides the major camping and river equipment, including a cot, sleeping bag, tent, camp chair, and water-resistant gear bags.
You’ll bring your own quick-dry clothing, secure river footwear, sun protection, rain gear, toiletries, medications, and other personal items. Review the complete packing list before your trip so you arrive prepared for the weather and river conditions.
Where should I fly, and when should I arrive in Moab?
Plan to arrive in Moab no later than the evening before your trip.
Canyonlands Regional Airport is the closest airport to Moab. Grand Junction, Colorado, and Salt Lake City are also common options for guests renting a car and driving to Moab.
Your trip meets early on Day 1 at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab, so arriving the night before gives you time to settle in and be ready for departure.
What happens if there is a medical emergency on the river?
Cataract Canyon is a remote wilderness environment several hours from advanced medical care. Western River guides have first-aid training, many hold higher-level emergency certifications, and trips carry first-aid supplies and satellite communication equipment.
If an injury or illness requires care beyond what can be provided on the river, guides can initiate an evacuation. Evacuation methods and response times depend on location, weather, river conditions, and the nature of the emergency.
Guests should disclose relevant medical conditions before the trip and contact Western River in advance if they have concerns about their ability to participate.
Have more questions? Contact us.
Cancellations
Flexible Options for Changing Plans
- You may cancel within 24 hours of booking for a full refund. Simply email your request within that timeframe.
- After the initial 24-hour window, all payments are non-refundable, including deposits ($300 per person, due at booking) and final payments (due 120 days prior to departure).
- Full cancellation terms and conditions will be provided during the reservation process and will also be included in your confirmation.
Travel Protection
We strongly recommend considering
travel protection insurance to safeguard against unexpected interruptions such as illness, travel delays, or family emergencies.
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Direct Booking Price Guarantee
When you book directly with Western River Expeditions, you receive our best available rate, with no third-party markups and no hidden fees.
Book Today Worry Free
After booking, you have a 24-hour grace period to review your reservation and confirm your plans with complete peace of mind.
Consistently Top Rated
Western River Expeditions has been voted a top river outfitter by USA Today, Newsweek, and National Geographic Adventurer, a distinction earned over more than 65 years guiding in the West.
Download your Cataract Canyon Express Expedition Guide
Get river maps, itineraries, camping details, weather insights, packing lists, and more, all in one place. Review the details with confidence and easily share it with your group.
