White Water Rafting Trips in the West
White water rafting in Salt Lake City might sound like something that you wouldn’t expect, but Utah is known for its surprises. Indeed, the state is filled with a diverse landscape where you can do a wide range of exciting activities that you wouldn’t be able to do elsewhere. The Wasatch Range is the biggest mountain range in Utah, and there is also the La Sal Mountains in the South. When the snow melts on these mountain ranges, it will flow through to the river to create the perfect conditions for white water rafting in Salt Lake City.
Top 5 White Water Rafting in Salt Lake City
If you want to take a break from hiking and skiing, it’s time to get your gear on and embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the river. Here’s where you can find the best whiter water rafting in Salt Lake City.
Cataract Canyon, Colorado River
This is the biggest site for white water rafting in Utah. Therefore, it is recommended for the experienced river rafters or those who have at least tried this before.
Cataract Canyon starts you through a gentle current wherein you can see views of the 2,000-foot red rock cliffs. While it starts out gentle, the current eventually picks up once you reach the confluence of the Green River current. This will take you to the Canyonlands National Park where you’ll see the white water transform into brown waves. Some of the highlights of this white water raft trip include Satan’s Gut, Big Drops, and Mile Long.
When you go on a white water rafting adventure in spring or summer, expect the biggest rapids you will ever encounter.
Westwater Canyon, Colorado River
This is another highly recommended white water rafting trip in Salt Lake City. Like Cataract Canyon, this is also connected to the Colorado River. This is a rather short trip measuring only 17 miles. For this reason, this is the best option for those who want to try rafting as a day activity.
One of the highlights of this white water rafting trip is the Bald Eagle that rises above the red rock canyons. Also, be on the lookout once the canyon walls turn to dark gneiss. You are in store for the major rapids like the Big Hummer, Staircase, and Funnel Falls. However, the real adventure begins when you reach the Skull Rapid.
The exciting rapids will definitely get your adrenaline going, and it’s an experience you’ll find yourself craving for over and over again.
Gates of Lodore, Green River
The Green River passes through the Uinta Mountains that form the Gates of Lodore. You will find it at the northern edge of the Dinosaur National Monument. The name of the canyon was inspired by Major John Wesley Powell’s 1869 expedition. It was the perfect fit for the ominous vibe of this natural formation.
If you are looking for the white water rafting trip in Utah that has the best scenery, then this is it. It showcases the beauty of Utah’s canyons with the lush vegetation on the banks, sandstone cliffs, dinosaur fossils, petroglyphs, and much more. You can even spot a bighorn sheep graze from afar.
But don’t be deceived by the stunning views of the Gates of Lodore. It’s still an adrenaline-filled adventure, especially when you go through rapids like the Disaster Falls and Hell’s Half Mile. You should definitely hang on for dear life and keep your eyes open at all times.
Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Escalante River
This desert river is abandoned most of the year. But when there is a deep snowpack, boaters flock to it during late spring. Even in this condition, you will require a low-drafting boat such as an inflatable kayak. This will take you through terrain that is rarely traveled.
You will be compensated for your efforts though, as you will marvel at the cathedrals of red rocks that tower above the river. There is a sense of isolation that holds you while exploring this river. It’s a trip that lives on with you even long after you have conquered its rapids.
Bears Ears National Monument, San Juan River
If you are looking for a cultural experience, then this is one of the best white water rafting trips you can embark on in Utah. It spans a stretch of 83 miles, and you will be rafting through the former Puebloan territory. For those who have more time to spare, you can also take side trips as there are plenty of amazing hikes in the cliff dwellings in the area. Some of these cliff dwellings have petroglyphs that are more than 2,000 years old.
This river has a laid back current that takes you through a labyrinth filled with red rock formations. It is located close to the Bear Ears National Monument that was initially protected in 2016 in an effort to preserve the cultural integrity of this land. This area is filled with natural beauty and cultural significance, which is why it is important to the Navajo nation and all the other tribes that have lived here throughout history.
Tips When White Water Rafting in Salt Lake City
Embarking on a white water rafting trip in the river is exciting – but it can also be extremely dangerous. It is important to choose a rafting trip that comes with a professional and expert guide. Don’t even attempt to do it yourself unless you are also a rafting expert.
A guided tour can help alleviate all of the planning required for this adventure. All you have to think about is showing up. The tour company will take care of the necessary equipment, sometimes including food and accommodation for multi-day tours. A guide will also accompany you so that you can do it safely and properly. They will help ensure that all the safety precautions are put in place so you can truly enjoy your rafting experience.
There you have it, the best white water rafting trips in Utah! If you want to try something different, then you know what to add to your itinerary!
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