Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch Colorado River

Experience the Colorado River in Moab: A Full-Day Rafting Adventure

If you’re visiting Moab and looking for a way to enjoy Utah’s striking landscape from a new perspective, a full-day rafting trip on the Colorado River might just be your perfect outing. Costing around $132 per person, this experience lasts roughly 7 hours and offers an engaging blend of gentle paddling, scenic views, and expert guidance. What makes this trip stand out? First, the experienced guides, many of whom have logged around 2,000 miles of rafting, bring a wealth of knowledge and safety expertise. Second, the stunning scenery, including Fisher Towers and other iconic formations, makes every moment awe-inspiring.

We love how accessible this adventure is—no prior experience needed—thanks to a thorough safety orientation and paddle instruction. It’s a fantastic way to get the family outdoors, especially for those who want an active day without the adrenaline rush of rough rapids. On the downside, the drive from Moab to the river, while scenic, takes about 45 minutes, so be prepared for a bit of a bus ride. This trip suits anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic, and educational experience that combines nature, gentle adventure, and the chance to unwind with a delicious deli-style lunch by the river.

Key Points

• Ideal for Beginners: No prior rafting experience required, with safety instructions included.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy views of Fisher Towers and Utah’s ancient geology throughout the trip.
• Expert Guides: Guides average 2,000 miles of rafting experience, ensuring safety and engaging stories.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, especially families with children 8-12 or older.
• Value for Money: Combines scenic adventure, expert guidance, and a meal for around $130.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Full-Day Colorado River Rafting Experience: A Detailed Look

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins at the Moab Office, located at 745 Kane Creek Blvd. The check-in process is straightforward: get fitted with a life jacket and meet your guides. The shuttle to Castle Valley takes about 45 minutes, winding through some of Utah’s most striking desert landscapes. This drive is a highlight in itself—an opportunity to take in towering rock formations and the vast, open skies. The journey sets the tone for the day, building anticipation for the scenery ahead.

Safety and Instruction: No Experience? No Problem

Once at the launch site, you’ll receive a quick safety briefing and paddle instruction. This is a key part of the trip, especially for those new to rafting. The guides, often locals with extensive experience, take pride in ensuring everyone feels prepared. As one reviewer notes, “Luis was a fantastic guide! We really enjoyed his knowledge of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.” Such expertise not only keeps the trip safe but also enriches the experience with interesting tidbits about the area.

The Scenic Float and Rapids

Pushing off onto the mild class II rapids, you’ll notice the river’s calm stretches, perfect for soaking in the scenery or just relaxing. The guides expertly navigate the twists and turns, stopping periodically to point out Fisher Towers and other geological marvels. These dramatic formations have been shaped over millions of years, and your guides share stories and facts along the way, making it feel like a floating geology lesson.

The trip is mostly a gentle float, but the occasional rapid adds just enough excitement. Many reviews highlight the calm, relaxing nature of the float, with water fights and jumping in to cool off, especially on hot days. As one traveler puts it, “It’s a slow float down the Colorado River, but the scenery is absolutely worth it.” The guides also facilitate some playful water activities, making it a fun experience for families or groups seeking lighthearted adventure.

The Riverside Lunch: A Tasty Break

One of the trip’s highlights is the delicious deli-style lunch served beachside. After a few hours on the river, you’ll stop for a well-earned break. The lunch offers a variety of sandwiches and snacks, providing energy for the remaining hours of adventure. Many guests appreciate the value of combining a scenic float with a good meal—it’s convenient and satisfying.

Final Stretch and Return

As the day winds down, your guides will steer the raft back toward the landing point. The return trip includes more tranquil stretches, perfect for taking photos or just enjoying the peaceful environment. The shuttle will then return you to your starting location, completing a full, satisfying day outdoors.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. One enthused traveler describes it as “an entertaining and very enjoyable trip,” praising Levi, the guide, for his professionalism. Another notes how Luis’s knowledge of wildlife and landscape added a special touch. Many mention the stunning scenery and the friendly, attentive guides as the best parts of the trip.

A common theme is that the trip is great for first-timers; the gentle rapids and safety briefings give confidence to those new to rafting. Families with children aged 8-12 also find it a perfect fit, especially since there’s plenty of room for swimming and water fights.

Some travelers mention the bus ride as part of the experience, with one describing it as “pretty intense,” but overall, most considered the trip a good value—offering scenic beauty, expert guidance, and a satisfying lunch for a reasonable price.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience is largely positive, some might find the 45-minute shuttle a bit long, especially if they prefer starting closer to the river. Plus, those seeking high-adrenaline white-water action should look elsewhere; this trip is designed for gentle fun and scenery appreciation.

Is This Trip Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxing day on the water with stunning views, engaging guides, and a family-friendly atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for beginners, those wanting a laid-back adventure, or anyone interested in Utah’s geological marvels from a different vantage point. It’s also a good value, combining scenic beauty, safety, and a meal for around $130.

However, if you’re craving thrilling rapids or a more intense white-water experience, this might not satisfy that need. Also, if you’re sensitive to bus rides, be prepared for the shuttle to and from the river.

FAQs

How long is the rafting trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, floating, and lunch.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including families with children aged 8-12, especially since the rapids are mild and water activities are common.

Do I need to have prior rafting experience?
Not at all. The guides provide safety instructions and paddle training, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water shoes or sandals, and a waterproof camera if you like. The tour provides life jackets and safety gear.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, guided rafting with experienced guides, safety equipment, and a beachside deli lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

How scenic is the drive to the river?
The drive through Castle Valley offers captivating views of Utah’s iconic rock formations, setting the mood for the day ahead.

Is the lunch vegetarian or gluten-free?
The menu is deli-style, so options are typical sandwiches. For special dietary needs, it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This full-day rafting trip on the Colorado River near Moab offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and relaxed fun. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to experience Utah’s stunning landscape from the water without the intensity of white-water rafting. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor, combined with breathtaking vistas, make it a worthwhile outing—especially if you’re looking for a memorable, family-friendly adventure that balances adventure with comfort.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers craving rapid descents, it excels at providing a peaceful, picture-worthy journey through one of the Southwest’s most compelling natural settings. For those who enjoy learning about the landscape and unwinding on the water, this trip is a solid choice—and a great value for the experience it delivers.