Colorado River Rafting: Westwater Canyon – Class 2-4 Rapids

Westwater Canyon on the Colorado River offers an exhilarating whitewater adventure for thrill-seekers. Guided by experienced professionals, adventurers navigate Class II-IV rapids, surrounded by the dramatic black rock canyon walls and stunning red sandstone formations. This one-day tour includes van transfers, a safety briefing, two rafting sessions, and a lunch break, providing an unforgettable experience in this National Geographic-designated Wild and Scenic River. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled challenge or simply wanting to learn about the breathtaking natural beauty, this Colorado River rafting trip promises an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Key Points

• Westwater Canyon on the Colorado River offers a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure with Class II-IV rapids, suitable for experienced adventurers.
• The one-day tour includes van transfers, a safety briefing, and approximately 6 hours of rafting split into two sessions with a lunch break.
• The tour provides pick-up and drop-off locations around Moab, ensuring convenient access to the whitewater rafting experience.
• Highlights of the tour include navigating the geological wonder of the Black Rock Canyon, enjoying a delicious lunch, and experiencing the adrenaline rush of the rapids.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those under 50 pounds, as it requires a certain level of physical fitness and ability.

Overview of Westwater Canyon

Westwater Canyon on the Colorado River stands out as one of National Geographic’s Wild and Scenic Rivers, offering a thrilling whitewater adventure amidst a remote wilderness canyon with spectacular geology.

Rated Class 2-4 rapids, this scenic river trip is perfect for those seeking an exhilarating yet manageable whitewater experience.

The rugged beauty of the black rock canyon walls contrasting with the red sandstone formations creates a stunning backdrop for the journey.

Friendly, professional guides lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for adventurers.

Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, Westwater Canyon delivers an unforgettable day on the river, immersed in the stunning natural wonders of this remote and wild landscape.

Trip Details and Duration

A one-day whitewater rafting adventure on the Colorado River through Westwater Canyon awaits, offering an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.

The tour includes a van transfer, safety briefing, and approximately 6 hours of rafting split into two sessions, with a break for a fresh and delicious lunch.

The tour begins with a 2-hour van transfer, followed by a 15-minute safety briefing. Guests then embark on the first 3-hour rafting session, enjoying Class II-IV rapids.

After a 1-hour lunch break, they’ll continue for another 3 hours of rafting before a 1.5-hour van transfer back.

This fully-guided tour includes all necessary gear and equipment for a thrilling day on the river.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers pickup and drop-off locations at several convenient spots around Moab, including Sheri Griffith River Expeditions, Red Cliffs Lodge, and Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa. This allows guests to easily access the Colorado River rafting adventure.

Guests can conveniently start and end their journey at their hotel or resort in Moab.

The van transfers to and from the river take approximately 2 hours and 1.5 hours, respectively, ensuring a seamless experience.

The drop-off locations are the same as the pickup points, making logistics straightforward for travelers.

Itinerary and Activities

This exciting Colorado River rafting adventure kicks off with a van transfer to the put-in point, which takes approximately 2 hours. Once there, guests receive a thorough safety briefing before embarking on the first 3-hour stretch of whitewater. After a well-deserved lunch break, the rafting continues for another 3 hours. The trip culminates with a 1.5-hour van transfer back to the starting point.

Itinerary	Duration
Van Transfer	2 hours
Safety Briefing	15 minutes
First Rafting Session	3 hours
Lunch	1 hour
Second Rafting Session	3 hours
Van Transfer	1.5 hours

Highlights of the Experience

Embarking on the rafting portion, thrill-seekers can expect an exhilarating journey through the Moab’s Best One Day Whitewater Rafting Experience, featuring Class II to IV rapids. The friendly and professional river guides will lead the way, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.

Highlights of the experience include:

• Navigating through the geological wonder of the Black Rock Canyon, with its towering red sandstone walls
• Splashing through the Class II to IV whitewater rapids, fueling the adrenaline rush
• Enjoying a fresh, delicious lunch and snacks amidst the stunning natural scenery of Westwater Canyon

This one-day excursion on the Colorado River promises an unforgettable whitewater experience in a remote wilderness setting.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Colorado River rafting tour through Westwater Canyon includes a full day of rafting, a fresh and delicious lunch, snacks, beverages, wetsuits and splash gear, Class II to IV whitewater, paddleboats, and professional river guides, with taxes and fees, as well as Moab hotel pick-up and drop-off.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, or children under 50 pounds (23 kg).

Guests will need to bring their own water bottles and any desired sodas, soft drinks, or adult beverages.

The tour operators designed this package to provide an exciting and memorable whitewater experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.

Suitability and Restrictions

While the Colorado River rafting tour through Westwater Canyon offers an exhilarating whitewater experience, it’s not suitable for all participants.

Children under 10 years old and those under 50 pounds (23 kg) aren’t permitted on the trip, and pregnant women are also advised against joining.

The tour’s challenging nature, with Class II-IV rapids, requires a certain level of physical fitness and ability to navigate the turbulent waters.

Participants should be prepared for:

• Getting wet and potentially falling into the river
• Navigating through steep, rocky terrain and narrow passages
• Maintaining balance and stability in the raft

Those with concerns about their suitability for the trip should consult with the tour operator before booking.

Booking and Logistics

Travelers can book their Colorado River rafting adventure through Westwater Canyon on the Sheri Griffith River Expeditions website or by contacting the company directly.

The tour operator provides several convenient pickup and drop-off locations in the Moab area, including the Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa, Red Cliffs Lodge, and their own headquarters.

The full-day excursion includes a 2-hour van transfer to the put-in point, a safety briefing, 6 hours of rafting with a live tour guide, a lunch break, and a 1.5-hour van transfer back.

Guests should bring water bottles, extra layers, and sun protection, as the canyon can be hot and exposed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Rafting Trip?

Yes, guests can take photos and videos during the rafting trip. However, it’s important to secure your camera and avoid dropping it in the water. Be mindful of your surroundings and prioritize safety.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

There’s no minimum group size required for the rafting tour. Individuals and small groups are welcome to join. The tour accommodates a range of party sizes without any special requirements.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour has a generous cancellation and refund policy. Customers can cancel up to 48 hours before the trip for a full refund. Within 48 hours, a 50% refund is offered. No refunds are given for no-shows.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages?

You can bring your own water bottles, sodas, and adult beverages, but the tour includes fresh lunch, snacks, and beverages. Bringing your own food and drinks is fine, but the tour already provides them.

Are There Any Additional Optional Activities Available?

The package includes the essentials for the rafting trip, but there are no additional optional activities offered. Guests can choose to bring their own water bottles, sodas, or adult beverages not provided in the package.

Recap

Westwater Canyon’s Class II-IV rapids offer an unforgettable whitewater adventure.

Guided by professionals, adventurers navigate through stunning geological formations, surrounded by the remote wilderness of this National Geographic-designated Wild and Scenic River.

The one-day tour includes van transfers, safety briefing, two rafting sessions, and a lunch break, providing an exhilarating experience you won’t soon forget.