Just Add Water for Insta-Adventure: Rafting Moab, Utah

Just Add Water for Insta-Adventure: Rafting Moab, Utah

By Melinda Rhodes
March 10, 2021 | Updated January 18, 2024

#whitewaterwarrior #makinasplash #bankshot #restingbeachface #sleepingunderthestars

These are just a few of the hashtag possibilities when it comes time to post your pics in all their Instagram glory after a Moab rafting trip guided by Western River Expeditions. Why not during? Because there’s no WiFi on the water and most people don’t have service between the intricately carved canyon walls. Go ahead: unplug and unwind on an unforgettable adventure. It’s nice to get away from all the digital distractions of daily life. Schedule, schmedule.

Take Me Rafting!

On River Time

You’ll spend a few hours on the water each day. Sometimes you’ll be floating along on water calmer than the lazy river at your local water park, in awe of your natural surroundings. Other times you’ll be paddling vigorously, avoiding obstacles and conquering heinous hydraulics (aka rapids) on a ride more exhilarating than any roller coaster or off-road tour. Forget the 4x4 and Hell's Revenge — Moab is better by boat. But if you want the best of both worlds, multisport trips are available that combine off-road excursions and river rafting.

There’s also plenty of time to spend basking on soft, sandy beaches, hiking to hidden places and eating to your heart’s content. And we’re not talking about boil-in-a-bag meals. Think steak and salmon for dinner. Bacon and eggs for breakfast. Ice-cold lemonade. And don’t forget the dutch oven dessert! Cobbler, anyone? Everything tastes better alfresco.

No Experience Required

It doesn’t matter how much outdoor experience you have. Before you push off on the Green or Colorado River, licensed guides walk you through the basics. You’ll go over paddling commands like “lean in” and “high side.” Listen carefully so you don’t become a pinball wizard in the water. (Talking to you, bruh.)

It’s not necessary to have a garage full of gear, either. Sure, this party is BYOB (bring your own bathing suit). And you’ll want to pack some neoprene socks, a great hat (#riverhairdontcare) and some other personal necessities in your soft-sided duffel. But Western River Expeditions packs the big stuff — from life jackets to freshly laundered sleeping bags. The outfitter also provides tents and ground covers if you want them, but nothing beats sleeping on a comfortable cot directly under the dark, starry sky.

The next day, wake up and welcome the warmth of the morning sun. Even before that first cup of caffeination, your legs will be bouncing with anticipation as you wait to board the raft.

Because … YOLO

Whether you're traveling solo or planning the ultimate bachelor(ette) party with a handful of your closest friends… plus the guest of honor’s curious cousin, Western River Expeditions offers trips for all types of travelers with one thing in common: an appetite for adventure.

Cataract Canyon (2 or 4 days):

Feel just like that John Wesley guy as you head toward Lake Powell on the Colorado River, stopping at seldomly seen places, chasing waterfalls (against TLC’s lyrical advice) and exploring ancient ruins along the way. The flow is fast and furious through this stretch, with class III-V rapids, thanks to the confluence of the Green River.

HIGH (NOT DRY) AND MIGHTY

Desolation Canyon (5 days):

Bring the young’uns. Kids 5 and up are welcome on this family-friendly Green River trip with class II and III rapids. As you navigate the river corridor you’ll see towering cliffs, ginormous cottonwood trees, and lots of wildlife. Quick side hikes reveal ancient petroglyphs and outlaw hideouts.

YOU CAN RUN, BUT YOU CAN’T TIDE →

Westwater Canyon (4 days):

This is the trip for anti-campers. During the day you’ll be rafting class III-V rapids and off-roading in the backcountry. Each night you’ll come back to the Red Cliffs Lodge where you can take a hot shower and sleep in a luxurious bed.

HAND ME MY GUCCI PADDLE

Southwest Sampler (4 days):

Please everyone in the famdamily with this multi-sport trip. Explore Arches National Park in the morning and go on a Hummer ® tour during sunset hours. Spend a couple of nights in a hotel before hitting the Colorado for an overnight river trip with class I-III rapids.

I WANT IT ALL

Though Moab is the quintessential place for river rafting, it’s also a rock climbing mecca. Sandstone walls are everywhere, full of multi-pitch sport routes and trad climbs. When you’re booking your river trip, you may also want to book an add-on activity. Moab Adventure Center offers half-day rock climbing excursions for all abilities. Or see the red rock from a different perspective and reserve a hot air balloon ride.

Rapids. Rinse. Repeat.

Wanna do it again and again and again? You’re in luck. Western River Expeditions doesn’t just offer multi-day Moab whitewater rafting excursions. The company also does trips outside of Utah including Arizona’s Grand Canyon, Oregon’s Rogue River, Idaho’s Salmon or Snake River, and Costa Rica’s Pacuare River. Book an unforgettable, uninhibited adventure today. Or, get a Western River Expeditions gift card and let that special someone choose their own adventure.

#bestpresentever

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