Westwater Canyon Overnight Whitewater Rafting | Moab, UT
Take on one of the most legendary whitewater stretches in the Southwest with a 24-hour rafting and camping experience through Westwater Canyon. This overnight trip combines powerful Class III–IV rapids with remote desert camping, delivering a rare opportunity to experience the Colorado River at its most thrilling and most untouched.
The Highlights Of Your Trip
Westwater Canyon is known for its technical rapids, narrow canyon walls, and true wilderness feel. On this overnight trip, you won’t just run the rapids. You’ll live in the canyon. Paddle through world-class whitewater by day, then camp along the river surrounded by towering rock walls and complete quiet.
This is Moab rafting at its most intense and immersive.
Book this trip
How much
Pricing
From $599
Ages 12+
What's included
Activities
- Overnight Trips
- Rafting
Trip Length
Duration
2 Days. Runs Fridays and Saturdays only.
How Hard
Difficulty
Who can go
Minimum Age
12 years old & Up
Trip Highlights
A. Why Choose the Overnight Westwater Canyon Trip?
This is the most advanced and complete rafting experience in Moab, designed for those who want both adrenaline and depth.
- Class III–IV Whitewater → Big rapids, powerful waves, and technical lines
- True Wilderness Camping → Camp inside a restricted-access canyon
- Extended River Time → More mileage and time to experience the canyon
- Rare Access Experience → Limited permits make overnight trips less crowded
- All-Inclusive Adventure → Guides handle meals, gear, and logistics
If you’re looking for a bucket-list rafting trip, this is it.
B. Trip Overview
- River: Colorado River (Westwater Canyon)
- Location: Near Moab, Utah
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night (24 hours in Westwater Canyon)
- On-Water Time: ~6–8 hours total
- Difficulty: Class III–IV (intermediate to advanced)
- Minimum Age: Typically 10–12+ (varies by water levels)
- Trip Style: Whitewater rafting + riverside camping
C. Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Into the Canyon & Big Rapids
- Meet your guides and shuttle to the Westwater Canyon put-in
- Gear up and begin floating through calm sections before entering the canyon
- Hit a series of iconic rapids, which may include Funnel Falls, Skull, and Sock-It-To-Me
- Break for a riverside lunch prepared by your guides
- Continue through technical whitewater and canyon narrows
- Arrive at a designated campsite within the canyon
- Set up camp, relax, and explore the surrounding area
- Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and campfire
- Overnight under the stars in a remote canyon setting
Day 2: Scenic Float Out
- Wake up to coffee and breakfast
- Pack up camp and return to the river
- Enjoy a calmer float through the lower canyon
- Take out downstream and shuttle back
D. Who Is This Trip Best For?
This trip is designed for guests seeking a more challenging and immersive rafting experience.
- Experienced Rafters
Those comfortable with bigger rapids and active paddling - Adventure Seekers
Looking for high-adrenaline whitewater combined with camping - Couples & Friend Groups
A unique shared experience with both action and downtime - Corporate Retreats & Team Groups
Ideal for team-building, leadership retreats, and group bonding in a remote setting - Travelers Wanting a Bucket-List Experience
One of the most iconic overnight whitewater trips in the region
What to expect on Your Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Highlights of the Overnight Westwater Canyon Trip
- Run famous Class III–IV rapids on the Colorado River
- Camp inside a remote, permit-controlled canyon
- Experience both high-adrenaline whitewater and peaceful canyon moments
- Enjoy guide-prepared meals in a wilderness setting
- See the canyon at sunset and sunrise
- Disconnect from crowds and fully immerse in nature
What’s Included
- Professional, certified river guides
- Rafting equipment (raft, paddle, helmet, PFD)
- Wetsuit or splash gear (seasonal)
- All meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
- Camping equipment (tents, group gear, kitchen setup)
- Dry bags for personal gear
- Transportation to/from the river
What to Bring
- Sleeping bag (or rent one)
- Change of clothes for camp
- Quick-drying river clothing
- Secure footwear (required for whitewater sections)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses with strap, hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal toiletries
Rafting Near Arches & Canyonlands National Parks
Westwater Canyon is located within reach of two of Moab’s most iconic destinations: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. While these parks offer incredible views from above, rafting Westwater gives you a completely different perspective deep within the canyon, surrounded by towering rock walls and moving water.
Pair this overnight rafting trip with a visit to the parks for a full Moab adventure that blends hiking, sightseeing, and world-class whitewater.
Trip Location
Moab Rafting on the Colorado River
825 Kane Creek Blvd
Moab, UT 84532
Welcome to AVA’s newest outpost in Moab, your basecamp for rafting the Colorado River in Utah. Whether you’re picturing calm red rock canyons or adrenaline-pumping rapids, Moab delivers both.
We focus on two distinct, high-demand rafting experiences:
- Fisher Towers → scenic, mellow, family-friendly float
- Westwater Canyon → powerful Class III–IV whitewater adventure
FAQs
This trip features Class III–IV rapids, making it an intermediate to advanced rafting experience. Guests should be comfortable with active paddling and larger waves.
Prior experience is recommended but not always required. Guests should be physically prepared and comfortable in a more dynamic, fast-moving river environment.
Westwater is known for its powerful rapids, narrow canyon walls, and remote setting. It offers more technical whitewater than the Fisher Towers section and a more adventurous overall experience.
Campsites are located within the canyon and are more primitive than standard campgrounds. Guides provide all necessary gear and meals, but expect a true backcountry experience.
Yes, this trip is excellent for groups looking for a unique and memorable experience. It’s especially popular for team-building retreats and adventure-focused group travel.
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