From Moab: Colorado River Guided Rafting Trip

If you’re visiting Moab and looking for a laid-back way to experience the stunning scenery of the Colorado River, this guided rafting trip offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Priced at $97 per person and lasting around 4 hours, it’s a family-friendly activity suitable for all ages and abilities — especially beginners. Expect to paddle through gentle Class 1 and 2 rapids, surrounded by towering rock formations, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the area’s natural history.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is the knowledgeable guides, who share fascinating stories about the landscape and geology, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Plus, the spectacular views of Fisher Towers and Professor Valley are worth the trip alone. A particular highlight for many is how accessible and calming the trip is, making it a great introduction to whitewater rafting without the adrenaline rush of more intense rapids.

One thing to consider is that the trip is geared toward a relaxed, scenic float with mild rapids – if you’re hoping for thrill-seeking whitewater, you might find this trip more gentle than expected. That said, it really shines as a family outing or a peaceful way to see Moab’s iconic rock formations from the river.

This tour suits travelers who want a fun, informative, and scenic experience without the need for advanced paddling skills. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with children or older adults who prefer a calmer adventure with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and soak in the surroundings.

Key Points

• Gentle Rapids: Perfect for beginners and families, with Class 1 and 2 rapids providing just enough splash and excitement.
• Expert Guides: Guides share engaging stories about the geology and history, making the float both fun and educational.
• Stunning Scenery: Views of Fisher Towers and Professor Valley make this a memorable sightseeing experience.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Includes gear, water, lemonade, and, if you choose the 12:00 PM start, a buffet lunch.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off, waterproof gear for electronics, and wheelchair accessibility.
• Value for Money: At under $100 for half a day, you’re getting an experience packed with natural beauty and expert commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Water

Starting with a hotel pickup in Moab, the tour ensures a stress-free beginning — no need to hunt for parking or navigate busy streets. Once you meet your guide, the crew will fit you with all necessary gear, including a life jacket and possibly a kayak if you request one. The safety briefing is concise but thorough, emphasizing the calm nature of the trip, which is reassuring whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a peaceful float.

The trip follows along the Fisher Towers and Professor Valley sections of the river. As you settle into your raft, you’ll notice the scenery — massive rock columns, sweeping cliffs, and unique formations — all contributing to Moab’s reputation as a geologist’s playground. Your guide will periodically share stories about how these formations came to be, adding depth to your visual feast.

The Scenery: Why It Matters

You’ll love the chance to watch Fisher Towers, which are often called “Moab’s most famous rock formations.” These iconic columns stand tall and proud, offering perfect photo ops. During the float, you’ll pass through Class 1 and 2 rapids—small enough to provide some splash and fun but gentle enough for beginners.

Travelers have noted how beautiful and peaceful the surroundings are, providing a stark contrast to the busy streets of Moab. Several reviews mention that even when the water levels are lower, the guides keep the trip interesting with stories and the chance to dip your toes into the river. One guest appreciated the calmness of the water when the water was lower, making it an even more relaxed experience.

The Guides: Why They Make a Difference

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a highlight. They are described as knowledgeable, fun, and safety-minded. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their guide, Emma, shared stories and answered questions, making the trip more engaging. Others have highlighted guides named Jacob, Bridger, Ryan, and Wyatt, all praised for their entertaining personalities and expertise.

Guides don’t just steer the boat—they share local history, geology facts, and personal anecdotes, which turn a simple float into an educational journey. Several reviews noted how guides went out of their way to ensure everyone had fun, whether that meant sharing jokes, explaining the landscape, or offering opportunities to swim or take photos.

The Meal Option: A Midday Treat

If you start around noon, the tour includes a buffet-style lunch. Reviewers rave about the delicious wraps and fresh food, which add a nice touch after a few hours on the water. Having a meal included makes this trip excellent value, especially when you consider the cost of other activities in the area.

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Additional Details: Comfort and Practicalities

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of transportation. The boats are equipped with waterproof bags for your electronics, so you can take photos without fear of them getting wet. The group size is often small, with many reviews mentioning only 7 people per raft, ensuring plenty of attention from guides.

For those concerned about accessibility, the tour is wheelchair accessible. Travelers recommend bringing sun protection, swimwear, a change of clothes, and water shoes, as sandals or flip-flops are not permitted. It’s also wise to arrive 15 minutes early for pickup, so you’re ready to go on time.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $97 per person, this tour offers a great balance of price and experience. For a half-day of scenic floating, guided storytelling, and mild rapids, it’s quite reasonable. The inclusion of gear, water, lemonade, and, on some trips, lunch, adds to the overall value. Many travelers have expressed satisfaction, describing it as “well worth the price” and a “fantastic trip.”

While it’s not a white-knuckle ride, the quality of guides and the stunning scenery elevate this experience well beyond a simple boat ride. It’s especially good for those who want to combine a gentle adventure with some of the best views Moab has to offer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families, first-time rafters, or anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water. It appeals to those who want to learn about the landscape while enjoying a peaceful float, rather than seeking adrenaline. If you’re traveling with kids (who weigh at least 50 pounds for safety gear), or if you’re a senior looking for an easy but memorable experience, this is a solid choice.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the opportunities to capture rock formations and river scenery. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a low-impact activity that still offers plenty of enjoyment and stunning views.

This guided rafting trip from Moab strikes a wonderful balance between scenic beauty, educational content, and gentle adventure. It provides a relaxing way to experience the Colorado River while still feeling like you’re part of an active outing. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it engaging whether you’re a nature lover, a family with kids, or someone just looking for a peaceful day on the water.

The value for money is quite good, considering the inclusions and the length of the trip. If you’re after an easy, informative, and visually stunning activity that doesn’t require paddling experience, this is a strong pick. The only caveat is if you’re craving high-energy rapids or extreme adventure — then you might want to look for something more intense elsewhere.

This trip is an excellent way to see Moab from a different perspective — floating leisurely past iconic formations, learning about the geology, and enjoying good company. It’s a great addition to any Moab itinerary, especially when paired with more active pursuits like hiking or exploring the national parks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, provided children weigh at least 50 pounds to wear the life jackets. The trip’s gentle rapids make it great for kids and families.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water, water shoes, closed-toe shoes, and a reusable water bottle. Cameras and electronics are allowed but at your own risk, so waterproof bags are provided.

Are there any dietary options for lunch?
The tour includes a buffet-style lunch with wraps. Specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned, but the food is generally well-liked.

What is the group size?
Most trips have around 7 people per raft, which allows for personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all travelers to enjoy.

What happens if water levels are low?
Guides adapt by providing more commentary and making the float equally enjoyable. Some reviewers noted that lower water levels made the trip even more relaxing.

To sum it up, this Moab Colorado River rafting experience offers a wonderful mix of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and relaxed fun. It’s ideal for those wanting to enjoy Moab’s natural beauty without the need for intense paddling or adrenaline. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll come away with great photos, new knowledge, and a sense of connection to this unique landscape. For a peaceful, scenic, and educational outing, this is a trip you’ll likely remember fondly.

You can check availability for your dates here: