If you’ve ever wanted to experience the wild rapids of the Colorado River, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the best Colorado River rafting spots for you to check out. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there’s something for everyone here. Keep reading to find out where you should be headed.
Grand Canyon Rafting
Grand Canyon Colorado River rafting is one of the most exhilarating and rewarding rafting experiences available. The Colorado River is the perfect environment for this type of adventure, with stunning scenery and a plethora of exciting rapids. The rapids range from class I-V in difficulty, depending on the season and the location. The most popular location for Grand Canyon rafting is the stretch of the river between Lees Ferry and Diamond Creek, which is commonly known as the Grand Canyon’s inner gorge.
The inner gorge is the longest and most remote stretch of the Colorado River, and it offers over 240 miles of rafting adventure. It is home to some of the most challenging rapids in the canyon, including Hermit, Crystal, and Hance. With its incredible beauty, sheer cliffs, and incredible wildlife, the inner gorge is one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth.
The journey down the inner gorge is an exciting and thrilling experience, with a variety of wild and amazing rapids, breathtaking views, and plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. You will have the chance to witness the Grand Canyon’s natural beauty and experience the grandeur of its towering walls and lush vegetation. Along the way, you will also have the chance to explore ancient ruins, ancient petroglyphs, and other archaeological sites.
The best time to experience Grand Canyon rafting is between March and May when the river is at its peak flow. This time of year offers the best combination of high water levels, warm temperatures, and stable weather. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Grand Canyon rafting is one of the most popular activities in the area. It is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Westwater Canyon
Westwater Canyon is considered one of the best Colorado River rafting spots in the country. Located in the Colorado Plateau, the canyon winds through miles of stunning sandstone cliffs, offering a thrilling and unforgettable river rafting experience.
The rapids in Westwater Canyon are classified as class I-IV, which means the water is moderate, and there are a variety of rapids. The river can be quite powerful, so it’s important that rafters are familiar with the basic paddling techniques and safety protocols. The canyon is also home to plenty of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and many species of birds.
The scenery in Westwater Canyon is spectacular, with towering sandstone walls and awe-inspiring views. The canyon is also full of fascinating history, including petroglyphs and artifacts left behind by the Ute Tribe. Rafters will also have the opportunity to explore the canyon’s many side canyons and narrow gorges, as well as take in the stunning views of the Colorado River.
Cataract Canyon
Cataract Canyon is one of the most popular Colorado River rafting spots located in southeastern Utah. This stretch of the river runs through some of the most breathtaking and remote canyon country in the world, with towering red cliffs, deep gorges, and ancient rock formations. The Canyon is home to some of the most challenging white-water rapids in the United States and is widely considered to be one of the top spots for a thrilling and exhilarating adventure.
Just south of Moab, Utah, the Green, and Colorado Rivers meet at “The Confluence,” where the Cataract Canyon begins. Bolstered by the Green River, the Colorado River doubles its force and carves a deep chasm through Canyonlands National Park. Cataract Canyon is known for its high-volume rapids that range from class III to class V, with some of the more difficult sections requiring experienced guides to navigate. One of the highlights of the trip is running the rapids of the aptly named Big Drop, a series of three Class V rapids that require a great deal of skill and finesse to navigate. The canyon also has many opportunities to explore Native American ruins and take in the beautiful views of the canyon walls.
Overall, Colorado River rafting is an incredibly rewarding and exciting experience that provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty. With a variety of rafting spots, ranging from tranquil and peaceful to wild and adventurous, it is no surprise that Colorado River rafting is one of the most popular activities.
