3 Day Utah River Rafting Trips – Westwater Canyon | Moab, UT
Escape into one of the most iconic river canyons in the Southwest on our 3 Day Westwater Canyon Rafting Trip. This unforgettable multi-day adventure on the Colorado River combines scenic desert landscapes, exciting Class III–IV rapids, and immersive riverside camping. Paddle through towering red rock walls before entering the legendary Black Granite Gorge, where the river comes alive with powerful whitewater and thrilling rapids.
This is the ultimate Moab rafting experience for those who want it all: adventure, scenery, and time to truly disconnect.
The Highlights Of Your Trip
Westwater Canyon is often called one of the best short whitewater trips in the West, thanks to its dramatic scenery and concentrated rapids.
Over three days, you’ll experience a progression of landscapes from wide-open desert canyons to the narrow, intense Black Granite Gorge. Here, the Colorado River collides with ancient rock walls, creating famous rapids like Funnel Falls, Sock-It-To-Me, and the legendary Skull Rapid.
Balanced with hiking, camping, and relaxing river time, this trip delivers both adrenaline and tranquility in one unforgettable journey.
Book this trip
How much
Pricing
From $1049
Ages 12+
What's included
Activities
- Rafting
Trip Length
Duration
3 Day
Who can go
Minimum Age
12 years old & Up
Trip Highlights
A. Why Choose a 3 Day Westwater Canyon Trip?
This trip offers a deeper, more immersive river experience compared to shorter rafting options.
- More time to explore side canyons, hikes, and hidden gems
- A relaxed pace before the big whitewater finale
- Ideal mix of adventure, camping, and scenic floating
- Experience both calm sections and intense rapids
The 3-day format allows you to fully disconnect and settle into “river time,” making it one of the most rewarding rafting trips in Utah.
B. Trip Overview
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- River: Colorado River – Westwater Canyon
- Distance: ~42 miles total
- Rapids: Class III–IV (depending on water levels)
- Minimum Age: Typically 10+
- Trip Style: Guided rafting with riverside camping
- Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate (good for adventurous first-timers)
C. Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Scenic Float & Desert Exploration
Meet in Moab and shuttle to the launch site. After a safety briefing, begin your journey through wide desert landscapes and red rock canyons. The first day is a relaxed float with opportunities to hike and explore side canyons. Enjoy a riverside camp with freshly prepared meals under the stars.
Day 2 – Canyon Hiking & Entering the Gorge
Start the day with coffee and breakfast before returning to the river. Hike to hidden archaeological sites and scenic viewpoints along the canyon. By afternoon, enter the dramatic Black Granite Gorge where the river narrows and anticipation builds. Camp near the rapids and prepare for the excitement ahead.
Day 3 – Whitewater Adventure Day
The grand finale! Navigate Westwater’s most famous rapids including Funnel Falls, Last Chance, and Skull Rapid. These powerful Class III–IV rapids deliver splashy, adrenaline-filled fun. After the excitement, enjoy calmer waters, swimming opportunities, and a scenic float to the take-out before returning to Moab.
D. Who Is This Trip Best For?
This trip is perfect for:
- Adventure seekers wanting a multi-day rafting experience
- First-time rafters ready for bigger whitewater
- Families with older kids (10+)
- Groups, couples, or friends looking for a shared outdoor adventure
- Travelers wanting both hiking and rafting in one trip
What to Expect on your 3 Day Rafting Adventure
Highlights of the 3 Day Westwater Canyon Trip
- Run legendary Class III–IV rapids like Skull and Funnel Falls
- Camp under the stars along the Colorado River
- Explore side canyons, petroglyphs, and historic sites
- Experience the dramatic transition from red rock to black granite canyon
- Enjoy freshly prepared meals and expert guides throughout the trip
What’s Included
- All rafting equipment and safety gear
- Professional, licensed river guides
- All meals during the trip
- Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, pad)
- Transportation to/from Moab
- Drinking water, beverages, and riverside dining setup
What to Bring
- Quick-dry clothing and river attire
- Secure footwear (water shoes or sandals with straps)
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Sleeping clothes and layers for evenings
- Toiletries and personal items
- Optional: camera, small daypack
Activities Near Arches & Canyonlands National Parks
Extend your adventure in Moab with nearby highlights:
- Explore Arches National Park — home to over 2,000 natural arches
- Visit Canyonlands National Park — vast desert views and canyon overlooks
- Scenic drives along Highway 128
- Mountain biking trails like Slickrock
- Jeep tours, hiking, and rock climbing
Moab is one of the best outdoor adventure hubs in the country, making it easy to turn your rafting trip into a full vacation.
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
No, guides handle navigation, and beginners are welcome on this trip.
Rapids are Class III–IV, offering exciting but manageable whitewater with guide support.
You’ll camp on sandy river beaches with provided tents, sleeping bags, and freshly prepared meals.
Most trips allow participants ages 10 and up.
Yes, transportation from Moab to the river and back is included.
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