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
Moab Half Day Colorado River Rafting Trip
✔️ Beginner friendly Class I and II rapids
✔️ Half day trip with guide, gear, and transport included
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. Moab Half Day Colorado River Rafting Trip
Best Beginner Friendly Rafting Tour from Moab
⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 Hours 30 minutes | 😍 Book it!
This half day Colorado River rafting trip from Moab is a much easier option than Cataract Canyon, making it a solid pick for first timers, families, or anyone who wants time on the river without committing to a full day.
You will raft through a mild section of the Colorado River with Class I and II rapids, so expect splashes and movement without the intensity of bigger whitewater runs.
A professional guide leads the trip and provides the rafting gear, safety instructions, and transportation from Moab to the river. The route also passes red rock canyon scenery, giving you a quick outdoor adventure close to town.
This tour includes round trip transport, rafting equipment, life jackets, and a licensed guide. It is a shared half day trip, so it works best if you want a shorter, beginner friendly rafting experience.
Everything was good! From the drive in the open bus to the launch area, to the going down the river. Great views, swimming in the river was fun and our tour guide KJ was very knowledgable, had good sense of humor and very protective of the safety of the group, Highly recommend!
– robert (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. Full Day Colorado River Whitewater Rafting Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 Hours | 😍 Book it!
For a full day on the river, join this six hour whitewater rafting trip through the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River. The route mixes calm stretches with Class II rapids, making it exciting without being overly intense.
Paddle beneath Moab’s red rock cliffs, then stop on a riverside beach for a fresh picnic lunch. Your licensed guide provides instructions and handles the logistics, while you help paddle through the faster sections.
The tour includes rafting equipment, transportation to and from the river, lunch, water refills, and a professional guide. Groups are limited to 12 travelers, and participants should have a moderate fitness level.
Fun. Easy. Guides were great. Scenery was beautiful. Water was cold! So fun! Even with low water, a great day.
(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
- For an easy introduction to rafting near Moab, book this half day Colorado River trip.
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.
| MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES |
✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures. |