Colorado River · Moab, Utah · All Ages Welcome
Half Day
Rafting Trips
from Moab
Three to four hours on the Colorado River beneath canyon walls that took millions of years to carve. No experience needed. All gear included. Just show up and float into one of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.
Choose Your Float
Our Half Day Rafting Tours
Both of our signature half day trips travel the Colorado River near Moab — each offering a distinct experience. The Moab Daily delivers mellow canyon fun for all ages, while the Fisher Towers float rewards guests with some of the most dramatic scenery in the American Southwest.
The Moab Daily
Moab's most popular half day river trip. The Moab Daily floats a stunning section of the Colorado River right in Moab's backyard, passing beneath soaring red-rock canyon walls and through gentle Class II–III rapids. It's the ideal introduction to river rafting in the Southwest — thrilling enough to remember, calm enough for the whole family.
Moab Daily DetailsFisher Towers Float
Float beneath the towering sandstone spires of Fisher Towers on the Colorado River in one of the most photographed canyon landscapes in the world. This calm, scenic stretch offers peaceful Class I–II water and 360-degree views of iconic desert monoliths — perfect for photographers, families with small children, and anyone seeking canyon serenity.
Fisher Towers DetailsSide by Side
Moab Daily vs. Fisher Towers
Not sure which trip is right for you? Here's how they compare at a glance.
| Moab Daily | Fisher Towers | |
|---|---|---|
| Whitewater Rating | Class II–III | Class I–II |
| Duration on Water | 3–4 Hours | 3–4 Hours |
| Minimum Age | 4 Years | All Ages |
| Best For | Families, First-Timers, Thrill Seekers | Photographers, Scenic Floats, All Ages |
| Canyon Scenery | ✓ Excellent | ✓ Iconic Spires |
| Rapids Present | ✓ Yes — Class II–III | — Minimal / Calm |
| AM & PM Departures | ✓ Both | ✓ Both |
| All Gear Included | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Expert Guide | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
The Colorado River
Moab's Backyard River
The Colorado River defines Moab. For millions of years it has carved the canyon country of southeastern Utah into one of the most visually stunning landscapes on the planet — and both of our half day trips put you right in the heart of it.
The sections used for half day trips near Moab are calm enough for beginners and young children, yet the canyon itself is anything but tame. Walls soar hundreds of feet above the water. Ancient geological strata mark millions of years of canyon history. The light changes by the hour.
Every trip on the Colorado River near Moab is a guided, permitted tour — your outfitter handles the logistics so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Canyon Walls Up to 400 Feet
The Colorado River corridor near Moab is framed by towering sandstone cliffs — a scale of scenery that photographs can never quite capture.
Ancient Petroglyphs & Rock Art
Float past remnants of ancient Ancestral Puebloan culture etched into canyon walls — visible only from the river.
Desert Wildlife
Keep your eyes on the canyon walls and shorelines for great blue herons, river otters, mule deer, and raptors soaring on desert thermals.
World-Class Photography
The Fisher Towers section in particular is a photographer's dream — golden sandstone spires reflected in slow canyon water.
Pick Your Time
Morning & Afternoon Departures
Early Canyon Light
Start your day on the water as the canyon comes alive with soft morning light. The Colorado River is at its calmest in the early hours — ideal for photographers, wildlife watchers, and guests who want a peaceful float before afternoon activities in Moab.
Book Morning TripGolden Hour on the River
Catch the canyon in its most dramatic light. Afternoon departures put you on the water as the sun drops toward the canyon rim, turning the sandstone walls shades of amber, copper, and deep red — a truly unforgettable experience.
Book Afternoon TripPerfect For
Who Takes Half Day Trips?
Families with Kids
Calm-to-moderate water, short duration, and no experience required make half day trips the top choice for families traveling with young children.
First-Time Rafters
Never been on a raft? Perfect. Half day trips are designed for beginners. Your guide handles everything — you just enjoy the ride.
Photographers & Hikers
Add a river perspective to your Moab trip without committing a full day. Pair the morning float with an afternoon hike in Arches or Canyonlands.
Moab Visitors on a Schedule
Half day trips fit easily into a packed Moab itinerary — done by lunch or early afternoon, leaving time for other adventures.
Common Questions
Half Day Rafting FAQs
How long is a half day rafting trip from Moab?
Plan for 3–4 hours on the water, with total trip time including check-in, gearing up, and shuttle around 4–5 hours. You'll be done well before midday on morning departures, or by early evening on afternoon trips.
Is half day rafting safe for children?
Yes. The Moab Daily trip welcomes children as young as 4 years old, and the Fisher Towers float is suitable for all ages including toddlers. All guests wear properly fitted life jackets and are accompanied by a certified guide throughout the trip.
What's the difference between the Moab Daily and the Fisher Towers float?
The Moab Daily includes Class II–III rapids and is the more action-oriented trip — fun for families who want a splash of whitewater with their scenery. Fisher Towers is a calmer, more scenic float beneath iconic red-rock spires, best for photographers and guests seeking a mellow river experience. Both are excellent choices.
What do I need to bring?
All rafting gear is included. Wear quick-dry clothing, bring sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, a reusable water bottle, and secure footwear (sandals with a back strap or water shoes). See the full packing list for details.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak season (May–August) when trips sell out days in advance. Booking online through our reservations page is the fastest way to secure your spot.
Can I book a private or group trip?
Absolutely. Private half day charters are available for groups of all sizes — from couples to large corporate or school groups. Visit our groups page for more information and custom pricing.
Get on the Water
Your Moab River Adventure Starts Here
Half day trips book up fast — especially on summer mornings. Lock in your spot on the Colorado River and make your Moab visit one you'll never forget.