Colorado River Rafting: Afternoon Half-Day at Fisher Towers

Discover the Calm of Colorado River Rafting in Moab

If you’re looking for a way to relax after a busy morning exploring Moab’s breathtaking landscapes, the Afternoon Half-Day Colorado River Rafting Tour at Fisher Towers offers just that. For approximately four hours, you’ll cruise the gentle waters of the Colorado River, taking in iconic views and learning about the area’s geology and film history from knowledgeable guides. Priced at $107 per person and rated a perfect 5.0 by 145 travelers, this tour strikes a fine balance between laid-back float and engaging commentary, making it ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone craving a peaceful river escape.

What we love most is how this tour combines spectacular scenery with informative guides who keep things interesting without overwhelming. The scenery around Fisher Towers is stunning and has served as a filming location for many Westerns, including the famous John Wayne movies and the 2013 remake of The Lone Ranger. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch on the riverbank elevates the experience, making it feel like a well-earned picnic rather than just another activity. On the flip side, if you’re after thrill-seeking rapids, this mellow float might fall a bit short—it’s primarily a relaxing, scenic adventure.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes, wildlife viewing, and a leisurely pace, especially those with young children or first-time rafters. It’s perfect for people wanting a calm, culturally rich experience that lets them unwind and soak in the views while learning about the area’s geology and film history.

Key Points

• Relaxing float designed for all ages, with gentle waters and scenic views.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories about geology, history, and film.
• Stunning scenery around Fisher Towers, a well-known filming location.
• Wildlife sightings such as eagles, herons, and mountain goats.
• All-inclusive experience with lunch, water, and transport from Moab hotels.
• Mild rapids means it’s suitable for those seeking calm waters, but thrill-seekers may be disappointed.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

We meet at the office located at 378 North Main Street in Moab, right next to the Comfort Suites. The tour begins at 11:00 am, a smart choice for those wanting to start after breakfast and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Most likely, you’ll board a transportation vehicle that takes you along Hwy 128, widely regarded as one of the top scenic highways in the country. The drive itself is a treat, offering views of red rock formations and surrounding landscapes that feel like they belong in a Western movie.

The Fisher Towers Section: Why it’s Special

The Fisher Towers area is the main highlight of this trip, not only for its striking natural beauty but also for its prominence as a film location. Over the years, it has appeared in numerous movies and commercials, including classics featuring John Wayne. The scenery here is rugged and dramatic—pinpointed by towering rock formations that seem to defy gravity.

While mostly a calm float, this section can feature some fun rapids if water levels are right, offering a splash of excitement without being overwhelming. During the float, you’ll learn from your guides about the area’s geology—how these formations were carved over millions of years—and about its history as a film set.

Wildlife and Nature

Many reviews mention wildlife sightings as a bonus. Expect to see eagles soaring above, heron wading along the riverbanks, and mountain goats navigating the cliffs. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, sharing stories about the local flora and fauna and pointing out animals and birds you might miss on your own.

The Lunch Break and Riverbank Picnic

One of the most appreciated parts of this trip is the included lunch. Instead of just a simple snack, you’ll enjoy a choice of fresh deli sandwiches with potatoes—thoughtfully laid out on the riverbank. This laid-back setting, with cold water on hand throughout the trip, makes the experience feel like a relaxing day out with good company. A review notes, “Having lunch on the bank of the Colorado River and seeing the goats was a highlight.”

Guides and Group Size

Trip guides are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge. They make safety a priority while also making the experience fun and engaging. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and manageable experience, and most reviews describe the guides as personable and attentive, making first-time rafters feel at ease.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts about four hours, which includes transportation, floating, stops, and lunch. It strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without it feeling rushed or overly long. The float itself is described as “super mellow,” perfect for those who prefer a peaceful day on the water rather than an adrenaline rush.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This rafting trip is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a peaceful way to experience the Colorado River, especially if you’re traveling with children or first-time rafters. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about the area’s film history, see stunning rock formations, and enjoy wildlife sightings, all in a relaxed setting. If rapid-chasing is your idea of fun, you might find this trip too gentle, but for a scenic, commentary-rich float, it can’t be beat.

Pricing and Value

At $107 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included transportation, guide, lunch, and the scenic experience. It’s not a cheap thrill, but the combination of comfort, scenery, and education makes it a worthwhile splurge for most visitors. Reviews consistently mention how much they enjoyed the guides’ insights, which adds educational value and enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

The Colorado River Afternoon Half-Day Rafting Tour near Moab offers a chance to unwind and enjoy some of the most scenic parts of the Colorado River without the rush of white-water thrills. The calm waters, stunning scenery, and engaging guides make it a memorable experience suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a peaceful day on the water. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and wildlife sightings makes this a well-rounded outing that captures the essence of Moab’s natural beauty and film history.

If you’re looking for a scenic, educational, and relaxing river adventure, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for those who want to see the iconic Fisher Towers without the physical challenge of white-water rafting, and who appreciate a good story told by passionate guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for the tour?
We meet at 378 North Main Street in Moab, right next to the Comfort Suites, at 11:00 am.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you are staying at certain Moab hotels.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately four hours, including transportation, floating, stops, and lunch.

What should I bring?
It’s best to bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing suitable for sitting in a boat. The tour provides water and cups.

Are children allowed?
Kids under 40 lbs cannot participate due to life jacket size restrictions. Most travelers can join, but it’s always good to check with the provider if you have concerns.

Is this tour suitable for first-time rafters?
Yes, reviews mention it’s perfect for people new to rafting, describing it as “relaxing” and “super mellow.”

What is the water temperature like?
Many reviews mention the water being quite pleasant, making it suitable for swimming along the way.

Are there any rapids?
The section is generally rated mild unless water levels are high, when some fun rapids may appear. Most find the float peaceful.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
Absolutely, many travelers have seen eagles, herons, and mountain goats during the trip.

How do I confirm my booking?
You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking, and it’s recommended to call the office the day before your tour to reconfirm.

This rafting trip stands out for its balance of scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and expert guiding. It’s a great fit for those wanting to see Moab’s iconic landscape from the comfort of a calm river float, topped with interesting stories and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re with family, new to rafting, or simply looking to unwind, this tour offers a peaceful, visually stunning slice of the American Southwest.