8 Heart-Pounding Moab White Water Tours To Ride the Rapids This Summer
Looking to get splashed on some Moab river tours?
Moab is one of the coolest little outdoor towns I’ve seen in all of America. Aside from being a quick drive away from two national parks, drag your dinghy, or blow up that inflatable raft, it’s also the place for incredible river adventures flanked by red canyons.
During my van life travels, my “passenger” companion most of the time was my foldable Orukayak that I brought everywhere. A stretch of the Colorado by Moab was actually my virgin voyage with it. However, in hindsight, I realized I was woefully unprepared and downright dangerous. I didn’t even ask about the water conditions or have any safety equipment.
So, if you’d like to be much less risky than I was, there are incredible Moab river tours that go anywhere from nice and calm to raging Class V rapids (the highest amateur level permitted)
Just want to pick the best? This is my top choice. Reserve this Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Day Trip with a highly reviewed excursion with exciting Class III rapids in the most popular area.
If you’re into more extreme adventures or just some casual fun, check out these 10 awesome rafting tours in Moab. They’re all led by local guides who know their stuff and are thoroughly reviewed by us.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Colorado River Raft Tours from Moab
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Day Trip
✔️ Class III Rapids
✔️ 3 Daily Departures
Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4X4 Tour
✔️ Full-Day Jeep & Raft Trip
✔️ Riverside Buffet Lunch
Cataract Canyon Rafting Adventure
✔️ Extreme with Class V Rapids
✔️ Swim & Hike to Hidden Waterfalls
Top Trips for Whitewater Rafting in Moab
1. Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Day Trip from Moab
Our #1 Top Pick for a Half Day at Fisher Towers
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Hit Class III rapids down incredible Martian landscapes on this Moab whitewater rafting tour to the most popular area of the Colorado River, Fishers Tower. Guided by your professional river guide, you’ll paddle, cool off with a refreshing swim, and learn the geology of the canyons.
No matter how packed your schedule is, you’ll have plenty of flexibility with departures at 9 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm. This half-day journey covers about 7 river miles (11 km) of magnificent scenery and just adrenaline-pumping enough Class III rapids. Noon departures get the added benefit of being treated to a delicious riverside lunch.
If this is your first river expedition, know that your small group of up to 15 will be in good hands. Included are all necessary rafting equipment, Coast Guard approved PFD’s, dry bags for your belongings, ground transportation to the starting point, water, lemonade, and inflatable kayaks upon request.
Laughed most the day I’d say. Had a nice homemade lunch while the guys got the raft in the water…We jumped in the river, traded jokes, and had a blast.
– rachel (Read more reviews)
2. Moab Rafting Afternoon Half-Day Trip
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4.5 Hours | 😍 Book it!
This half-day rafting trip promises an adventure-filled afternoon through red rock canyons, Castle Valley, and Fisher Towers. Experienced trip leaders will help you navigate rapids, paddling through breathtaking scenery.
If you have no prior whitewater rafting experience, no problem! Your central meeting point in Moab will have all the necessary equipment and make sure everyone is safe and ready for the ride ahead.
After a scenic shuttle ride, launch into the river to take in the scenes of Castle Valley and tackle a Class II rapid!
This package includes free parking, splash jackets, helmets, high-quality rafting gear, river and land access fees, and a round-trip shuttle. And, if you’re more of a morning person, here’s the info for the morning session.
We had a wonderful time full of animal sightings, breathtaking views and the refreshing river. We swam in the river, experienced small rapids and had a over all great time.
– whitney (Read more reviews)
3. Full-Day Colorado River Rafting Tour at Fisher Towers
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 7.5 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Now, let’s go to another whitewater rafting excursion through Fisher Towers, but this time for a full day. This one is a bit more chill, paddling through class I and II rapids while soaking in the scenery.
You have the option of a paddle boat where everyone contributes or a raft where only the guide paddles. During the trip, pause for lunch at a secluded beach to connect with nature and your fellow boating buddies. You’ll also drive on Hwy 128, one of America’s top 10 most scenic highways.
This comprehensive package includes professional guiding, lunch, beverages, and transfers.
After seeing the bigger companies and the amount of people, we were very happy we chose adrift.
– chris (Read more reviews)
4. Moab Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4X4 Tour
Our #2 Top Pick for a Combo National Park and Boat Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 8 Hours | 😍 Book it!
On this Moab outdoor combo, you’ll first ride through the off-road landscapes of Canyonlands National Park. Grind along the Island in the Sky region, navigating the dramatic Shafer Trail and White Rim Road.
After refueling with a delicious buffet lunch by the riverside, swap the land for water on a guided rafting trip on the mighty Colorado River. The adrenaline rush of whitewater rapids is balanced with quiet stretches of calm water for photos or a refreshing swim.
Your package includes 4WD transportation, whitewater rafting, river gear, and a buffet lunch. It’s a small-group adventure limited to 12 people only.
The trip was great from top to bottom. Brian was fun to be around and shared so much knowledge on the 4×4 portion of the trip. Lance was our guide on the river portion and we had a fantastic relaxing float down the river. Highly recommend if your time in Moab is limited.
– danielle (Read more reviews)
Read More: If you’re into more off-road trails in Moab, I’ve got a whole guide here.
5. Cataract Canyon Rafting Adventure from Moab
Our #3 Top Pick for an Extreme Excursion
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 11 Hours | 😍 Book it!
It does not get more extreme than Cataract Canyon in this region. Deep within Canyonlands National Park, this full-day rafting trip through Cataract Canyon covers a 100-mile journey, splashing down Class V rapids, the highest rating rapids amateurs can tackle.
The reddish-brown rocks whizz by before the adrenaline is juxtaposed with moments of tranquility in calm sections of the river. Here, you can even take a dip, hike, or relax.
The motorized raft is expertly handled by a professional guide, while you will navigate more than 30 whitewater rapids. Camping near the river or hiking to waterfalls inside canyons adds an extra layer of adventure, making this tour a standout among others.
This outing is limited to 12 people and includes all meals on the river, lifejackets, river gear, and transportation to the river.
We went during the high water season due to the large snow fall this past winter, and it was wet and wild.
– marsha (Read more reviews)
6. Westwater Canyon Full-Day Rafting Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Of course, we won’t skip another lesser-visited expanse of the Colorado River with a full-day rafting trip through Westwater Canyon. This exciting voyage is slightly less extreme than Cataract Canyon, but you’ll still conquer the powerful Class III and IV rapids with names that sound like a dare: Sock-It-To-Me, Funnel Falls, and Skull.
Alongside experienced guides, paddle through tall red rock formations and keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, playful river otters, and beavers.
Your guide will equip you with everything needed for the day: helmets, PFDs, wetsuits, and even dry bags for your belongings. Round-trip transport will take you to the river’s edge.
Spot ancient petroglyphs or remnants of Wild West mining cabins before enjoying a quality buffet-style lunch right on the riverbank.
The guides did a fabulous job maneuvering through the rapids. It was very exciting!! And the scenery- gorgeous! Definitely recommend!
– peter (Read more reviews)
7. 2-Day Colorado River Rafting Trip through Westwater Canyon
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 48 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Finally, the most extreme of them all, if you have the time, head on this private multi-day Westwater Canyon whitewater-rafting tour. Heart-pounding rapids will be mixed in with tranquil waters while enveloped in Utah’s natural beauty.
Your first day will be a float to Little Hole Canyon, where you can find a hidden desert waterfall. Day two is where the adrenaline kicks in; after breakfast, face the relentless force of Colorado’s most notorious rapids.
This package includes all transportation, life jackets, river bags, and all meals. Your nights will be spent under the stars at carefully selected campsites with a maximum of 15 since it is a private tour.
Terrific scenery, fantastic adventure, and delicious meals. What more could one ask for.
(Read more reviews)
8. Flatwater Fun: Moab Stand-Up Paddleboarding
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 3-4 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Glide through the calm waters of the Colorado River with this stand-up paddleboard tour. Although not exactly a boat, I wanted to include one option that embraces the great outdoors without any stress.
Through a peaceful 6-mile escape, bypass the rough rapids so even beginners and families can enjoy.
Stroke alongside red sandstone cliffs and stop at soft sandy beaches with landscapes that border Arches National Park.
This trip comes complete with tasty snacks, a licensed guide, and convenient transportation to and from the river.
Great morning out on the river…Really enjoyed this super chill meditative activity. Great vibes all around. Will be back.
– suzy (Read more reviews)
Moab Travel Guide and FAQ
When is the best time to visit Moab?
The best time to go to Moab is typically during the spring months, from March to May, and the fall months, from September to October, for great weather and outdoor activities. However, visiting Arches in the wintertime may be better to avoid the crowds and the timed reservation requirements.
Why is Moab Utah famous?
Moab, Utah, is famous for its red-rock landscapes, proximity to two national parks—Arches and Canyonlands, and abundant outdoor recreational activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting.
What class of rapids are in Moab?
The whitewater rafting in Moab generally features Class III rapids, which are just thrilling enough yet manageable for most rafters. However, there is everything from Class I to Class V rapids, depending on where you go.
How deep is the Colorado River in Moab?
The depth of the Colorado River can vary widely throughout the year, but it generally ranges from about 4 feet in shallower sections to over 30 feet in deeper channels.
Final Thoughts: Moab Boat Tours
The Colorado River is one of the best places in America for float experiences, and Moab is the ideal starting point. For some areas, you have to get on a waitlist, and it could be 10 years before you get selected.
While you just have to sign yourself up for a Moab river tour to partake in anything from a half-day excursion to multi-day expeditions, extreme or peaceful days.
In case you’re still not sure which to pick:
- Go to the most popular river section in the region; join this mildly exciting Fisher’s Tower Rafting Trip
- Include a national park; sign up for this Canyonlands Jeep and River combo tour
- Go on one of the most extreme river sections in the Americas; book this Cataract Canyon Boat Excursion.
And, if you’re planning to explore the area in other ways, don’t miss my Canyonlands itinerary or check out these Moab helicopter or ATV tours.
Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Utah?
Utah may very well be one of the most underrated, beautiful places in the world. I’ve traveled all through this great state, snowboarding down some of the best resorts and hiking through godly monoliths. If you’re heading elsewhere in Utah, check out these posts.
- One Day in Zion National Park Itinerary for Adventurers
- One Day in Arches National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
- Perfect One Day in Canyonlands Itinerary for First-Timers
- Perfect One Day In Salt Lake City Itinerary For First Timers
- Perfect One Day In Bryce Canyon Itinerary For First-Timers
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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