Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch

If you’re considering a day on the water in Moab, this full-day rafting trip along the Colorado River offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. While we haven’t personally paddled this route, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a standout experience for travelers looking for a mix of mild thrills and memorable landscapes.

What we love most about this tour is its balanced itinerary — gentle enough for beginners or families with kids, yet engaging enough to keep everyone entertained. The expert guides clearly make a difference, often cited as energetic, knowledgeable, and personable. Plus, the chance to soak up the iconic red rock vistas that have graced countless movies adds a touch of cinematic magic to your day.

A possible consideration is the group size, which caps at 32 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience but still providing a social vibe. And with a cost of $138 per person, it’s competitively priced for a full day of fun, scenery, and a hot BBQ lunch—though, like any adventure, the value depends on your appreciation for guided outdoor activities and scenic downtime.

This trip suits families, friends, or solo travelers craving an authentic taste of the Colorado River’s beauty without the rough-and-tumble of white-water rafting. If you’re after a well-organized, guide-led adventure with good food and stunning views, this is a hit.

Key Points

• Balanced Adventure: Mild rapids combined with long, calm stretches make it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Jess, Mason, and Izzie are repeatedly praised for their energy, safety focus, and storytelling.
• Scenic Marvels: The canyon scenery is described as “incredible,” with a cinematic quality that makes the experience visually stunning.
• Tasty Lunch: The BBQ buffet at Red Cliffs Lodge is a highlight, with freshly grilled options and refreshing drinks.
• Value for Money: At $138, it covers transportation, guides, equipment, a full day on the river, and a hearty lunch, making it a competitive option.
• Authentic Experience: Many reviews highlight the personal touch of guides and the chance to make new friends, adding to the trip’s authenticity.

The Itinerary: What Makes It Special

The journey begins at the Moab Adventure Center, located conveniently on Main Street. From there, you’ll hop onto a vehicle that takes you up one of the most scenic highways in the West, setting the tone for an adventure filled with stunning vistas even before launching onto the river.

Upon arrival at the launch point, you’ll board your raft and start your float through a landscape recognizable from countless movies. The route features mild rapids like Onion Creek, Cloudburst, Rocky Rapid, and Whites Rapid. These are perfect for those new to river adventures or families wanting some excitement without the intense adrenaline rush of white-water rafting.

One of the most enjoyable parts is the long, calm stretches between rapids, where you can relax, enjoy the sun, or even cool off with a swim or float in the river. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides encourage fun, including games and opportunities to jump into the water—a great way to beat the heat and add a playful element to the day.

Lunch stands out as a part of the experience. The exclusive BBQ buffet at Red Cliffs Lodge offers a choice of burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or veggie patties, served with salads, cookies, lemonade, and iced tea. It’s a generous, satisfying meal that allows you to unwind and recharge amid stunning canyon views, often described as “delicious” and “plentiful” by guests.

The tour concludes with a return to Moab, often leaving guests with the impression that they’ve experienced an authentic, memorable slice of the region’s natural beauty. Many reviews emphasize how the guides’ storytelling and safety focus added depth to the trip, making it not only fun but educational.

The Guides: Unsung Heroes of the Day

From lively Jess to knowledgeable Izzie and attentive Spencer, the guides form the core of this experience. Reviewers frequently mention how guides make the difference—keeping everyone safe, engaged, and entertained. Their stories about the canyon formations and river features add value beyond just paddling.

Guests appreciate guides who foster a sense of camaraderie, making the trip feel personalized rather than just a commercial outing. The guides also handle safety with professionalism, which is reassuring, especially when some guests choose to swim or float freely.

The Scenery: A Cinematic Backdrop

The Colorado River through Moab is famous for its dramatic red rock formations and towering canyon walls. Many reviewers describe the views as “breathtaking” and “incredible,” with some comparing the landscape to scenes from movies. The canyon’s geology, with its layered sedimentary rocks and colorful cliffs, provides a constantly changing tableau that’s perfect for photography.

The calm stretches give you time to soak in the scenery, often making guests feel like they’re floating in an outdoor movie set. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a lover of nature’s artistry, this landscape will not disappoint.

The Lunch: Fuel for the Day

The BBQ lunch is a highlight for many guests, offering freshly grilled options and sides. The exclusive location at Red Cliffs Lodge adds to the experience, with shaded seating and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests find the meal satisfying and well-portioned, perfect for re-energizing after several hours on the river.

Some guests note that the lunch is “delicious” and “great value,” especially since it’s included in the price. The availability of vegetarian options also makes it accessible for different dietary preferences.

Price & Value: Does It Deliver?

At $138 per person, the tour includes transportation to and from the river, all necessary safety and rafting equipment, a full day of guided river time, and a hearty BBQ lunch. Many reviews point out that the experience is well-organized, fun, and educational, making it a good value for the cost.

Compared to other outdoor activities in Moab, this trip offers a comprehensive package that balances adventure and comfort. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the guides’ energy enhances the value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This rafting adventure is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic outings with a touch of adventure. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, guided experience with stunning views, rather than high-intensity white-water rafting. It also appeals to those who appreciate good food, personable guides, and opportunities to socialize.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it accessible, as it combines paddling with plenty of floating time. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic trip that showcases the best of Moab’s canyon country, this is a top choice.

FAQs

How long is the rafting trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point in Moab.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the trip is described as suitable for all ages, with mild rapids and plenty of calm stretches, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, all rafting equipment and safety gear, guided instruction, and the exclusive BBQ lunch at Red Cliffs Lodge. A free insulated flip-top bottle is also provided.

Do I need prior rafting experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The guides handle safety and instruction, and the rapids are rated mild, suitable for beginners.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for getting wet and sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen. Bring a waterproof camera if you want photos, and don’t forget your sense of adventure.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 32 travelers, ensuring a manageable and friendly group atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This full-day rafting trip along the Colorado River with Moab Adventure Center combines scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and great food—delivered in a well-organized package with excellent guides. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a relaxed yet memorable day in Moab’s iconic landscape.

If you’re after a family-friendly, authentic outdoor experience that balances fun with comfort, this tour fits the bill perfectly. The reviews highlight how guides enhance the trip with their energy and storytelling, and the stunning canyon vistas make it a visual feast. For a reasonable price, you get a full day of adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy Moab’s natural beauty from a different perspective, this tour offers excellent value and reliable fun.