Westwater Canyon Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Near Moab, UT

If you’re looking for the most exciting rafting near Moab, Westwater Canyon delivers. This iconic stretch of the Colorado River combines towering canyon scenery with powerful whitewater, creating one of the best single-day rafting trips in the American Southwest.

Please reach out to info@coloradorafting.net for a quote.

On AVA’s Westwater Canyon Full Day Rafting Trip, you’ll paddle through calm desert river sections before entering the canyon’s dramatic granite walls where the river narrows and the rapids build. The trip culminates in a thrilling series of legendary rapids—including Skull, Funnel Falls, and Sock-It-To-Me—known for their big waves and technical maneuvers.

This full-day adventure covers about 17 miles of the Colorado River and combines spectacular canyon scenery with heart-pounding whitewater for an unforgettable Moab experience.

Trip Highlights

Why Choose Westwater Canyon?

Legendary Whitewater

Westwater Canyon features some of the best Class III–IV rapids in the region, creating an exciting challenge for adventurous rafters.

A Remote Colorado River Canyon

This hidden stretch of river cuts through dramatic desert landscapes with black granite canyon walls rising above the Colorado River.

A Perfect Full-Day Adventure

The day starts with scenic floating and builds toward an action-packed finale of continuous rapids.

Expert River Guides

Our professional guides navigate every rapid while sharing stories about the geology, wildlife, and history of this incredible canyon.

Trip Overview

Trip Length: Full Day
Time on River: ~6–7 hours (about 10–12 hours total with transportation)
River Section: Colorado River – Westwater Canyon
Rapids: Class III–IV (moderate to advanced whitewater)
Minimum Age: Typically around 10–12 years old depending on water levels
Meeting Location: Moab area
Season: Late Spring through Early Fall

This exciting rafting adventure covers approximately 17 miles of the Colorado River, beginning with scenic desert floating before entering the dramatic granite walls of Westwater Canyon. Along the way, paddlers encounter a thrilling series of legendary rapids—including Funnel Falls, Sock-It-To-Me, and Skull Rapid—making it one of the most exciting single-day whitewater rafting trips near Moab.

Trip Itinerary

Your day begins with a scenic drive from Moab to the Westwater Canyon launch area. After meeting your guides and gearing up, you’ll launch onto the Colorado River and begin floating toward the canyon entrance.

The first part of the trip offers time to relax, take in the desert scenery, and practice paddling with your crew. As the canyon narrows and the walls rise higher, the energy builds.

Soon you’ll enter the heart of Westwater Canyon — a narrow gorge where powerful rapids crash through the canyon corridor. Here you’ll paddle through famous rapids like:

These waves and drops create thrilling whitewater moments before the river gradually calms as you exit the canyon.

Midway through the trip, guides typically stop for a riverside lunch, giving everyone time to relax, explore the canyon beach, and recharge before the biggest rapids ahead.

By the end of the day, you’ll reach the take-out point where transportation returns you to Moab.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

Westwater Canyon is ideal for:

Because of the stronger rapids, this trip is best for guests seeking a more thrilling rafting adventure compared to scenic floats.

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