Cataract · Desolation · Labyrinth · Moab, Utah
Overnight
Rafting Trips
from Moab
Sleep on a sandbar deep inside a canyon that no road can reach. Wake to silence, stars, and a river still running. Multi-day rafting expeditions from Moab take you into a wilderness that only the Colorado and Green Rivers can unlock.
Choose Your Expedition
Overnight Rafting Adventures
Three distinct river corridors, each offering a completely different experience of canyon Utah. From the thundering Class V rapids of Cataract Canyon to the peaceful isolation of Labyrinth Canyon's desert stillwater — there's an overnight trip built for every kind of river traveler.
Cataract Canyon
The crown jewel of overnight rafting from Moab. A multi-day expedition through Canyonlands National Park — accessible only by river — featuring 26 major rapids including the infamous Class V Big Drops. Camp on remote sandbars where no road can reach, then wake up and do it again. Available as 3-day paddle or 5-day full canyon expeditions.
Cataract Canyon DetailsDesolation Canyon
One of the most remote multi-day rafting destinations in the American West. Desolation Canyon on the Green River carves through 100 miles of federally designated wilderness — no roads, no towns, no noise. Class III–IV rapids, ancient rock art panels, and canyon walls taller than the Grand Canyon. A true backcountry river expedition.
Desolation Canyon DetailsLabyrinth Canyon
A gentle, soul-restoring float through one of the most visually striking canyon corridors on the Green River. Labyrinth Canyon features calm flatwater — ideal for first-time overnight rafters, families, and anyone seeking immersive canyon solitude without whitewater. Towering sandstone walls, sweeping meanders, and ink-dark night skies.
Labyrinth Canyon DetailsEverything Handled
What's Included in Every Overnight Trip
Licensed River Guide
Every trip is led by a certified, experienced guide who handles navigation, safety, route planning, and cooking — so you can focus entirely on the experience.
All Rafting Equipment
Commercial-grade self-bailing rafts, paddles, Type III life jackets, helmets on technical sections, and dry bags for your personal gear.
Full Camp Setup
Tents, sleeping pads, river kitchen, tables, chairs, and a groover (portable toilet system) — everything needed to live comfortably on the river for multiple days.
All Meals on the River
From the first day's lunch to the final morning's breakfast — hearty, fresh, guide-cooked meals that are a legendary part of the river camping experience.
Shuttle & Transportation
Round-trip transportation from Moab to the put-in, and take-out shuttle back to town at the end of your trip. Logistics are fully handled.
Canyon Stargazing
Deep inside a river canyon, far from any light pollution, the night sky becomes something you'll never forget. Some of the darkest skies in the continental US lie above these campsites.
Campfire Evenings
Gather around a fire on a remote sandbar, share stories, and settle into the rhythm of river life. No schedule. No notifications. Just the sound of moving water.
Wildlife & Wilderness
Multi-day trips move through the heart of canyon wilderness. Expect great blue herons, bighorn sheep, river otters, raptors, and landscapes that feel like another world.
Ancient Rock Art Panels
Desolation Canyon in particular features dozens of Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont petroglyphs — visible only from the river, accessible only on overnight trips.
Trip Comparison
Find Your Perfect Expedition
All three overnight trips depart from or near Moab. Here's how they stack up across the factors that matter most.
| Cataract Canyon | Desolation Canyon | Labyrinth Canyon | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3–5 Days | 5–7 Days | 3–4 Days |
| Whitewater | Class IV–V (Big Drops) | Class III–IV | Class I–II (Flatwater) |
| Best For | Thrill Seekers, Adventurers | Wilderness Lovers | Families, First-Timers |
| Remoteness | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Rock Art & History | Some | ✓ Extensive | ✓ Yes |
| Canyon Wall Height | Up to 1,400 ft | Up to 5,000 ft | Up to 400 ft |
| Prior Experience Needed | Recommended | Helpful | None Required |
| All Meals Included | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Camping Gear Provided | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Sample Itinerary
3-Day Cataract Canyon Expedition
Our most popular overnight trip — three days, two nights, and every major rapid in Cataract Canyon. Here's how the days typically unfold.
Moab → Potash Launch → Flatwater & First Canyon
Meet your guides in Moab, load the rafts at Potash, and push off down the Colorado River. The first day is a scenic warm-up — gliding through towering canyon walls above the rapids, watching the landscape shift into Canyonlands. Camp at a remote sandbar as the canyon goes dark and the stars emerge overhead.
The Confluence → Upper Rapids → Big Drop Build-Up
The canyon narrows and the pace picks up. Pass the dramatic confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers — accessible only by river. Class III and IV rapids begin arriving in rapid succession, building anticipation for what lies ahead. Tonight's camp feels earned. The sound of the river fills the canyon all night.
Big Drop 1, 2 & 3 → Takeout → Return to Moab
The morning everyone has been waiting for. Breakfast on the beach, then into the most intense water of the trip — Big Drop 1, 2, and 3 in rapid succession. After the rapids clear, motor out through calm water to the takeout at Hite, then shuttle back to Moab by late afternoon. Already planning your return.
Perfect For
Who Takes Overnight Trips?
Wilderness Seekers
If a day trip leaves you wanting more canyon, an overnight expedition puts you deep inside a wilderness that closes behind you like a door. No roads. No crowds.
Families with Older Kids
Labyrinth Canyon is ideal for families with children 8 and up. Calm water, stunning scenery, and a bonding experience that most family trips will never match.
Special Occasions
Birthdays, anniversaries, retirements — river camping is the ultimate celebration trip. Your guides make it feel like a private expedition built just for your group.
Experienced Adventurers
For those who've done the half day float and the full day — overnight rafting is the next level. Real wilderness. Real whitewater. Real river life.
Questions
Overnight Rafting FAQs
What is included in an overnight rafting trip?
Everything you need to live on the river: certified guide, commercial raft, all safety gear, tents, sleeping pads, a full river kitchen setup, all meals from the first day's lunch through the final morning's breakfast, and a shuttle from Moab to the put-in and back from the takeout.
Do I need rafting or camping experience?
Not for most trips. Labyrinth Canyon is suitable for complete beginners and families. Desolation Canyon benefits from some outdoor experience but no rafting skill is required. Cataract Canyon multi-day paddle trips are best for guests who are comfortable with physical activity and moving water. Your guide handles all the technical work.
What do I need to bring on an overnight rafting trip?
A sleeping bag rated to overnight desert temperatures, personal clothing (quick-dry layers), sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, personal toiletries, and a reusable water bottle. Your outfitter provides all camp and river equipment. See our full packing list for detailed guidance.
When is the best season for overnight rafting from Moab?
Spring (April–June) delivers peak flows and the most dramatic whitewater in Cataract Canyon. Summer is warm and excellent for Desolation and Labyrinth Canyon. Fall offers cooler temps, changing canyon light, and more solitude. Each season has its own character — our team can help you pick the right window for your trip.
Can I book a private group overnight trip?
Yes. Private charters for overnight expeditions are available for groups of all sizes — family reunions, corporate retreats, scout troops, and more. Visit our groups page for custom pricing and availability.
How far in advance should I book?
Overnight and multi-day trips book up weeks or months in advance, especially in peak season. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred dates and trip type. Reserve online or contact us with questions before booking.
Reserve Your Expedition
Sleep Under Canyon Stars.
Book Today.
Overnight rafting trips from Moab book months in advance — especially Cataract Canyon in spring and Desolation Canyon in summer. Don't wait. The river is already running.