Explore Utah

River rafting in Utah

Utah is a world-class destination for river rafting, with a range of experiences for every skill level. Whether you’re after calm scenic floats or adrenaline-pumping rapids, Utah has an abundance of world-class rivers to explore. These rivers provide opportunities for all experience levels, with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife.

Best river rafting in Utah

Utah is home to some of the most spectacular river rafting destinations in the U.S., offering everything from serene scenic floats to adrenaline-pumping whitewater rapids. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there’s something for everyone. Below are some of Utah’s best river rafting areas, with links to maps and guides to help you plan your adventure.

Colorado River

The Colorado River near Moab is one of Utah’s most popular rafting destinations, known for its stunning red rock canyons and thrilling rapids. Enjoy everything from peaceful day trips through the scenic Fisher Towers section to exciting whitewater rafting in Cataract Canyon.

Green River

The Green River is one of Utah’s premier rafting rivers, flowing through the remote and beautiful Desolation and Gray Canyons. This area offers a blend of moderate whitewater (Class II to IV) and calm stretches, making it a favorite for multi-day rafting and camping trips.

San Juan River

Flowing through the scenic landscapes of southeastern Utah, the San Juan River is known for its calm waters and rich history, making it ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed float trip. Explore ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and towering canyon walls as you drift along this gentle river.

Weber River

Just a short drive from Salt Lake City, the Weber River offers a great option for a quick day trip. The river features Class II to III rapids, making it a great choice for beginner and intermediate rafters looking for a scenic and exciting experience in northern Utah.

Provo River

The Provo River is a great option for families and those seeking a scenic float trip near Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. With mostly calm Class I and II waters, this river offers a peaceful ride through stunning landscapes. It’s also popular for tubing during the warmer months.

Sevier River

The Sevier River offers a mix of scenic floating and exciting rapids, making it a versatile option for various skill levels. Located in southern Utah, the Sevier is ideal for a half-day trip and features beautiful desert scenery.

Cataract Canyon (Colorado River)

For thrill-seekers, Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most intense rapids in Utah. The trip starts in calmer waters but builds up to exhilarating Class IV and V rapids as you approach the heart of the canyon. This is a bucket-list destination for experienced rafters and adventure enthusiasts.

River rafting guiding services in Utah

Utah is a prime destination for river rafting, offering experiences ranging from gentle floats to exhilarating whitewater adventures. To help you navigate the best rafting spots with confidence, several highly-rated guiding services provide everything from gear to expert guidance. Below are the top river rafting guiding services in Utah, complete with links to their websites, so you can plan your next unforgettable rafting adventure.

Moab Adventure Center

Moab Adventure Center is a trusted name in Utah’s rafting community, specializing in guided trips along the Colorado River. From half-day scenic floats to adrenaline-filled whitewater trips through Cataract Canyon, Moab Adventure Center offers a variety of experiences tailored for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

  • Services: Half-day to multi-day trips, family-friendly rafting, scenic floats
  • Website: Moab Adventure Center

Holiday River Expeditions

With over 50 years of experience, Holiday River Expeditions offers some of Utah’s best multi-day rafting trips. Their expertise covers the Green River, Yampa River, and the thrilling rapids of Cataract Canyon. In addition to rafting, they offer biking and hiking packages to round out your outdoor experience.

OARS

OARS is one of the most renowned rafting companies in the U.S., and their Utah expeditions offer unforgettable rafting adventures through the state’s most iconic rivers. OARS specializes in multi-day trips that combine rafting with backcountry camping, making them a great choice for those seeking an immersive wilderness experience.

  • Services: Multi-day trips, backcountry camping, family rafting
  • Website: OARS

Red River Adventures

Based in Moab, Red River Adventures offers guided rafting tours through the stunning Colorado River and the nearby Fisher Towers section. They cater to beginners and families looking for a scenic day on the river, as well as adrenaline junkies interested in Class III and IV rapids.

  • River Locations: Colorado River, Fisher Towers
  • Services: Half-day and full-day trips, whitewater rafting, scenic floats
  • Website: Red River Adventures

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions is known for luxury rafting tours, offering top-notch service on some of Utah’s wildest rivers. Their Cataract Canyon and Green River trips combine thrilling whitewater with gourmet meals and comfortable camp setups, perfect for those looking for an upscale adventure.

Adrift Adventures

Adrift Adventures offers guided rafting trips on the Green and Yampa Rivers, with options ranging from family-friendly floats to more intense rapids. They also offer combo packages with hiking and horseback riding for a comprehensive outdoor experience in Dinosaur National Monument.

  • River Locations: Green River, Yampa River
  • Services: Multi-day trips, family-friendly rafting, combo adventure packages
  • Website: Adrift Adventures

Wild Expeditions

Wild Expeditions offers intimate and customizable rafting trips on the San Juan River, known for its calm waters and stunning desert landscapes. Perfect for history lovers, their trips often include stops at ancient Native American ruins and petroglyph sites.

  • River Locations: San Juan River
  • Services: Half-day to multi-day trips, family-friendly, historical sightseeing
  • Website: Wild Expeditions

Canyonlands Field Institute

For an educational twist on river rafting, Canyonlands Field Institute offers guided rafting trips focusing on environmental education and cultural history. Their expert guides provide insight into the natural history and geology of the San Juan River, making it perfect for families and school groups.

  • River Locations: San Juan River
  • Services: Educational rafting trips, school groups, cultural tours
  • Website: Canyonlands Field Institute

High Country Adventure

Located near Provo, High Country Adventure is a go-to for rafting trips on the Weber and Provo Rivers. They offer leisurely scenic floats and whitewater adventures, making them ideal for those looking for a rafting trip close to Utah’s Wasatch Front.

Pro River Rafting

Based in Moab, Pro River Rafting specializes in guided trips on the Colorado River. Known for their experienced guides and family-friendly options, they cater to adrenaline seekers and those wanting a relaxing float.

  • Services: Whitewater rafting, scenic river tours, half-day and full-day trips
  • Website: Pro River Rafting

Park City Rafting

Park City Rafting offers convenient access to thrilling rafting adventures on the Weber River. It’s perfect for locals and visitors with scenic canyon views and customizable group trips.

  • Services: Scenic floats, family-friendly rafting, group tours
  • Website: Park City Rafting

All Seasons Adventures

Based in Park City, All Seasons Adventures provides expert-guided rafting trips on the nearby Weber River. Their focus on small groups and tailored experiences ensures a memorable outing for all skill levels.

Always Rafting

Located near Sevier, Always Rafting offers guided trips on the Sevier River. Known for their personalized service and exciting rapids, they’re a great option for families and adventure enthusiasts.

  • Services: Whitewater rafting, scenic floats, private tours
  • Website: Always Rafting