CATARACT
CANYON
100 miles. 30 rapids. Class III–V whitewater through the heart of Canyonlands National Park — the most powerful big-water rafting in North America, departing from Moab, Utah.
The Colorado River
North America's
Most Legendary
Big Water Run
Where the Green River and Colorado River collide just south of Moab in Canyonlands National Park, the combined current doubles in force and carves a 100-mile corridor of raw, untamed whitewater. This is Cataract Canyon — one of the last free-flowing stretches of the Colorado River, alive with Class III through Class V rapids that have challenged explorers since John Wesley Powell's 1869 expedition.
Guided Cataract Canyon rafting trips from Moab put you on the water with expert river guides who know every drop, every eddy, and every side canyon in this magnificent corner of the American Southwest. Between the adrenaline, you'll drift through soaring canyon walls, camp on white sand beaches, and sleep under one of the darkest skies in the lower 48.
Choose Your Adventure
Cataract Canyon
Tour Packages
4-Day Classic
The definitive Cataract Canyon experience. Four days of rafting, hiking, riverside feasts, and stargazing in one of North America's most awe-inspiring canyon wilderness areas. Returns via scenic air tour over Canyonlands National Park.
2-Day Express
All the biggest drops and legendary rapids packed into two fast-paced days. A high-powered motorized raft covers calm stretches quickly so you spend maximum time on the whitewater. Ground transfer return to Moab.
Planning a group trip? We offer private Cataract Canyon charters for corporate retreats, bachelor parties, and family reunions. Contact us →
The Whitewater
Legendary
Drops
Cataract Canyon holds some of North America's most storied whitewater. During peak spring snowmelt in May and June, these are considered among the biggest rapids on the continent.
Plan Your Trip
Best Time to
Run Cataract
Water levels transform the character of Cataract Canyon throughout the season, from earth-shaking spring floods to technical late-summer boulder runs. Every month offers something extraordinary.
Maximum snowmelt from the Rockies creates the biggest water of the year. The Big Drops reach their full, terrifying glory. This is the bucket-list window for big whitewater seekers.
⛵ Motorized J-Rig rafts
Still powerful and thrilling. Water levels begin to drop, bringing a mix of J-rigs and oar boats. Warm temperatures make swimming stops a highlight.
⛵ J-Rigs + Oar Boats
Boulder gardens emerge as water drops, making rapids more technical. Perfect for those wanting a hands-on paddle experience. Warmest temperatures of the season.
🚣 Oar Boats + Paddle Rafts
Cooler desert days, smaller crowds, and incredible canyon light for photography. Rapids remain exciting and technical. A serene final chapter of the rafting season.
🚣 Oar Boats + Paddle Rafts
All-Inclusive Adventure
Everything
Handled for You
Your only job is to show up ready for adventure. We take care of every detail — from gear to gourmet riverside meals — so you can be fully present on the river.
We collect you from your Moab accommodation and shuttle you to the put-in. No logistics, no stress.
Cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs, and a full camp kitchen setup on pristine white sand beaches every night.
Your guides double as camp chefs. Expect hot breakfasts, hearty lunches, and three-course riverside dinners.
Top-condition rafts matched to current water levels, plus Type V whitewater life jackets, helmets, and dry bags.
Wilderness First Responder certified river guides with deep knowledge of Cataract Canyon's history, geology, and ecology.
4-Day Classic guests fly back over Canyonlands National Park in a small aircraft — a breathtaking finale to an unforgettable trip.
Guest Reviews
What Our Guests
Are Saying
"The Big Drops were absolutely terrifying in the best possible way. I've rafted rivers across the country and Cataract in peak flow is in a class of its own. Our guide navigated it like he was born on the river."
"We did this as a family with our 14-year-old. The guides had him engaged in navigation, plant identification, and spotting petroglyphs. He came home a different kid — curious, confident, and begging to go back."
"I booked the 2-Day Express for efficiency and got every bit of the Cataract experience. The flight-return on the 4-day definitely tempts me to go back. The camp food was legitimately some of the best I've eaten anywhere."
Spots Fill Fast
READY TO
RUN IT?
Peak-season Cataract Canyon departures sell out weeks in advance. Choose your trip and secure your spot today — we'll handle everything else.
Questions first? Read the FAQ or contact our team. Flexible cancellation available. See trip policies.
Common Questions
Cataract Canyon
FAQ
Do I need rafting experience for Cataract Canyon?
No prior experience is required. Our certified guides handle all navigation and safety. Guests must be comfortable in moving water, able to swim if they fall in, and meet the minimum age of 12 for spring trips (10 for July–September). Read our safety page for full requirements.
What is the best month to raft Cataract Canyon?
May and early June deliver the biggest whitewater in peak snowmelt. July and August offer warm weather with excellent but slightly lower flows. September is beautiful with fewer crowds. Each season has distinct appeal — the right time depends on your priorities.
What type of raft will we use?
In spring high water we use large motorized J-rigs, engineered specifically for Cataract's biggest waves. Later in summer we transition to oar-powered rafts and paddle boats for a more hands-on experience. Boat type is matched to current water levels for safety and optimal experience.
Is the 4-Day Classic or 2-Day Express better?
Both trips cover the same 100 miles and hit the legendary rapids. The 4-Day Classic includes more time for side hikes, relaxing on beaches, ancient ruin exploration, and ends with a breathtaking scenic flight return. The 2-Day Express packs in the big drops on a faster schedule — perfect for those with limited time.
What's included in the trip cost?
All meals from departure to return, camping equipment, rafts and safety gear, certified guide services, Moab hotel pickup, and the return transportation (scenic flight for 4-Day, ground shuttle for 2-Day). Personal items and gratuity are not included. See our packing guide.
How far is Cataract Canyon from Moab?
The put-in at the Green/Colorado River confluence is approximately 50 miles south of Moab via Canyonlands National Park. We provide transportation from your Moab hotel to the river and back, so you don't need to arrange anything independently.
Can I book a private Cataract Canyon trip?
Yes. We offer private and custom group charters for corporate outings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, family reunions, and guided adventure groups. Visit our groups page or contact us to discuss options and pricing.
What is your cancellation policy?
We offer flexible cancellation on most departures. Full details, including deposit requirements and refund timelines, are available on our trip policies page. We recommend reviewing these before booking.