Desolation Canyon, Green River 5 Day Questions

A rafting vacation on the Green River often entails many questions. What type of boats are used? How does camping on the river work? What is the food like? What do I need to bring and what is supplied by Western River Expeditions? You'll find answers to all these questions and many more in the categories below.

Physical & Dietary Requirements

What are the physical requirements for this trip?

An adventure vacation such as a river trip down Desolation Canyon can provide experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. We want you to enjoy your river trip as much as possible. In order to do this, it is necessary that you understand the physical requirements of the trip. Health determinants such as age, weight, lack of physical conditioning, degenerative brain disease, and diseases or conditions associated with the heart and lungs may become intensified due to the unpredictable environment and distance from hospitals. Understanding these risks along with the possible strenuous physical activity that accompanies whitewater rafting trips of this nature will help you be better prepared for this trip of a lifetime.

Balance Caloric Expenditure with Caloric Intake
- A rafting adventure with Western River Expeditions is a wonderful mix of physical excursion, relaxation, and tempting gourmet foods. It’s important to make sure you eat a well-balanced diet to keep your body fueled for each day’s adventures. If you have allergies or other dietary restrictions, please see the “Food & Beverage” tab found on this same page. Please note that all allergy and dietary restriction information should be shared with our detail-oriented reservation staff before final payment is due.
Be Self-Sufficient & Responsible
- A river trip such as this requires active participation from each guest. Our wonderful guides will do their best to ensure the safety and welfare of each guest on the trip, but you are also responsible for your personal safety. The guides fill their long days with varying responsibilities, so they will not be able to devote a lot of extra time to any one individual throughout the trip.
Carry Your Personal Gear Bag
- You must be able to carry your own gear bag which holds your 20-pound duffle bag and sleeping bag, a tarp, and bed sheets. You will also be required to set up your own cot and tent after the guides demonstrate how to do so. You will decide where you set up your personal camp and take your duffle bag. You’ll be responsible to take your gear where you want it and return it back to the boat the next morning.
Grip Ropes & Paddles
- The type of boats we use on the Green River down Desolation Canyon is great for families and individuals of all ages and abilities. Being able to grip ropes tightly with your hands is important because it’s how you’ll stay inside the boat during the rapids. If you are in an inflatable kayak, you’ll need to paddle intensely (using your abdominal muscles, leg muscles, and arm & shoulder muscles) at times. This will get you through both the rapids and some flatwater sections of the river. Ask a member of the reservations staff what type of boat(s) are available during your trip date for more information.
Assist in “Self-Rescue”
- It is possible that you could fall out of the boat or that the boat could capsize. In the event that this happens, you will need to be able to self-rescue by either swimming back to the boat or to shore. If you swim to shore, you may have to traverse over rocks, tree limbs, and other natural obstacles to get to the boat downstream. Your guide will point you in the direction of safety if anyone falls out of the rafts or kayaks.
- For participants who have heart conditions or who are very overweight, falling out of the boat during a rapid or other highly intense situation could possibly result in a “cold-water immersion heart attack”. Such attacks occur when the person swimming cannot calm their breathing and the heart does not receive enough oxygen.
Navigate Uneven Terrain
- The nature of this trip requires you to get on and off boats regularly. You may be asked to get on or off the boat on a flat, sandy beach or you may be asked to step onto boulders or a beach with a steep grade. It may take as much as a 2-3 foot ascent to climb onto the rafts. Also, the boats may have slippery and sandy surfaces at any time. The boat may be tied off in swift water, which means it could be swaying or rocking as you board or exit the raft.
- There will be opportunities to stop and hike as we travel downriver. These hikes lead to ancient granaries, historic hideouts, petroglyphs, pictographs, and incredible views. Not all hikes are mandatory, but guests are required to get off the raft due to safety concerns. If you have concerns about this, or would like to learn more about the possible side hikes, please give our friendly staff a call.
- Our daily lunches and nightly camp will be on sandy beaches. Again, this requires you to be able to get on and off the boats on uneven terrain. Sand can be difficult to walk on, and each night and morning you will be carrying your own gear bag, including your 20-pound duffle bag, sleeping bag, bed sheets, and tarp. Please note that reaching the toilet facilities at night in the dark also requires traversing irregular ground terrain.
Wear Your Life Jacket
- In order to fit into this coast guard approved, National Park Service required, Type V Whitewater life jacket, you must weigh at least 50 pounds and have a chest size no larger than 52 inches. We have both “Adult” and “Youth” jackets. Youth jackets are for those weighing between 50-90 pounds (23-41kg). Both adult and youth jackets are adjustable in order to fit a range of chest sizes and body types. If you have any concerns regarding the fit of a life jacket, please contact our office staff. After a discussion, if you are still unsure about the fit for either yourself or a child, we’ll mail you a life jacket for you to try it on.
- Your guide will fit you to your life jacket while on your adventure. For your safety, it is crucial that you wear your life jacket as instructed. These Type V life jackets are very effective at keeping your head above water; but if you are unable to swim a threatening situation could arise, especially during a rapid-filled section of the river.

What about hiking?

Hiking and exploring opportunities will be available in the canyon. Native American petroglyphs, a moonshiner’s hideout, and historic homesteads dot the river corridor. Hiking is encouraged but optional.

Do I need to know how to swim to go on this trip?

You need to be comfortable floating in water while wearing a lifejacket and you need the ability to propel yourself through the water to assist in your own rescue should you fall out of the raft. Falling off the boat into the river, or having your boat capsize is one of the inherent risks associated with whitewater rafting. If this happens, you will need the ability to self-rescue by swimming to the boat or to shore.

Each guest wears a lifejacket and the lifejackets, if worn properly, are very effective at keeping you above water, but if you are unable to swim, it can still be a threatening situation because the waters are turbulent.

How important is self-sufficiency?

A river trip is a participatory experience and requires each guest to be reasonably self-sufficient. Our guides will look after the safety and welfare of all the participants on the trip, but you are also responsible for your own safety! Our guides will provide you with the information and tools you need to participate; however, they already fill nearly every minute of their day performing their duties on behalf of the group. They will not be able to devote a lot of extra time to any one individual on the trip.

How remote are the rafting trips?

Our trips are operated in the “backcountry.” At any given time, you will be a minimum of several hours away from medical help. Our guides are all trained in wilderness first aid and some have even higher levels of emergency response training (e.g., EMT), however, sometimes injuries or the aggravation of pre-existing medical conditions are severe enough to require evacuation from the trip. We carry satellite phones but they are not 100 percent reliable in all locations. Most evacuations require transportation via helicopter which presents many challenges such as appropriate landing zones, inclement weather, or darkness.

What will the weather be like?

On the same trip, you may experience extreme cold, heat, wind and perfectly comfortable conditions. For this reason, we encourage our guests to bring everything from shorts to substantial rain gear. Because our trips are in the Desert Southwest, shade is often scarce, so adequate sun block lotion and sun protective clothing is a must.

What is camping like on a rafting trip?

We camp and eat lunch on sandy beaches and on areas where the ground is mostly dirt and rocks. You must also be capable of safely walking across slippery, rocky, and sandy areas as you climb on and off the boat and walk along the beach to your personally selected campsite each night. Guests are required to carry their own waterproof bags with personal gear and the additional 15 pounds of camping gear (cots & tents) to their individual campsite. This can be very difficult for some guests due to the uneven terrain, deep sand, and steep beaches

How do we get on and off the boats?

Getting on and off the boats can be challenging. We park the boats against a variety of terrain such as rocks, steep sandy beaches, and flat locations. Boats may also be slippery and they have uneven surfaces.

What about toilets?

Toilets are available only in camp and are usually located down a narrow trail, well away from the guests in a secluded location. We do our best to mark the trail, even at night, but it is always necessary to take a short hike to access the toilets. The where, when and how of going to the bathroom during the day will be explained by the guides on your trip.

Will I fall off the raft?

Falling off a boat into the river, or having your boat capsize is one of the inherent risks associated with whitewater rafting. If this happens, you will need the ability to self-rescue by swimming to the boat or to shore. If you end up on shore, you will need to traverse a rocky shoreline to rejoin the boat which cannot maneuver upstream.

For those participants who have heart conditions or who are very overweight, falling into the river also presents the possibility of a “cold-water immersion heart attack.” This is caused when the person swimming cannot calm his/her breathing within a reasonable amount of time (generally 60 seconds).

What type of life jackets are used?

Each guest wears a lifejacket and they are very effective at keeping you above water, but if you are unable to swim, it can still be a threatening situation because the waters are turbulent. The lifejackets we use are certified by the United States Coast Guard and are approved for use by our managing agencies (National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management & Utah State Parks & Recreation). They are classified as “Type V Whitewater” jackets, and they come in two basic sizes “Youth” and “Adult Universal.”

Youth jackets fit someone weighing between 50 and 90 pounds (23-41kg). An Adult Universal Jacket is rated “for persons weighing more than 90 pounds (41kg).” They are highly adjustable and fit a range of chest sizes from 30 - 58 inches (76-147 cm). Body shape can also affect the proper fit of the jacket. If you are unsure, call and speak with us. If necessary, we’ll mail you one of our jackets and you can try it on.

What if I don't full disclose any health of physical issues I may have?

We don’t want to be overly discouraging, but it is important for your safety and comfort that we be forthcoming about the specific challenges presented on a river trip. It is also vitally important that you disclose any and all physical, emotional, and mental conditions, limitations, or challenges you or your children may have. Likewise, it is important to be completely honest about the age and weight of children. Undisclosed medical or physical conditions might affect the safety and well-being of you and/or other participants on the trip. It is critical that you share this information with us in advance so that we can help keep you safe.

We cannot absolutely guarantee your safety, or the suitability of a trip like this for you. For a participant who is not capable of meeting these criteria, a river trip, particularly a multi-day trip, can be unpleasant, dangerous, or even fatal. For those who meet these criteria, these trips are often the best experiences of their lives. The difference is in determining your suitability for a trip, then selecting the right trip for you, and arriving physically and mentally prepared to actively and joyfully participate in the experience.

We encourage you to carefully evaluate your overall physical, mental, and emotional condition in relation to these environmental challenges. If you have concerns or questions about your physical condition, we recommend you also consult your physician. If you have questions about the specific parameters of a rafting trip with Western River Expeditions, please contact our office at 1-800-453-7450 or 801-942-6669. We would be happy to provide any other information you need to make this decision, or to discuss any of this information in detail.

Reservations & Cancellations

What deposit is required?

An initial non-refundable $500. per person deposit is required to secure your space. Deposits may be made by check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express).

Can I hold space without a deposit?

We offer a 48 hour courtesy hold, no deposit required. Exceptions to this standard courtesy hold time are evaluated as to how many seats are still available and how close the actual travel date may be.

When is final payment due?

Payment in full is due 120 days prior to trip departure and is non-refundable. Payment may be paid by check (preferably) or credit card.

How can I make payments?

You may make partial payments by credit card or by mailing in a check, providing the full balance is paid 90 days prior to your trip. These payments may be made online through the "Manage Payments" link in your order or by phone. For payments over $10,000 and for large international payments, a check or wire transfer is preferred. We reserve the right to cancel your reservation if full payment is not collected by the due date.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

Your initial deposit of $500 per person is non-refundable. Payment in full is due 120 days prior to trip departure and is also non-refundable.

Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Western River Expeditions will not issue any refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Western River Expeditions is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. Western River Expeditions assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.

Depending on availability and advance notice, you may have the option to transfer your reservation to another date or trip for a transfer fee. This is not guaranteed, and availability and transfer policies vary between trips.

Trip or date transfers into the following season are not allowed.

Is cancellation insurance available?

If you are concerned about the possibility of having to cancel, you will find information about cancellation coverage at at https://www.westernriver.com/cancellation.

Some of the most difficult situations occur when a guest needs to cancel a few days before a trip because of an injury, a family illness, or some other catastrophic event. In these situations, we generally do not have time to refill the space. Yet, we have already spent considerable time, money, and energy preparing for your trip: scheduling vehicles, flights, drivers, guides and equipment, purchasing food, etc. Because of our short season and very limited number of available seats, we cannot afford the financial loss that cancellations cause. Therefore, consider the investment you are making in your vacation and whether or not you could afford the loss if you did have to cancel.

What about tips and gratuities?

Gratuities for guides are appropriate and greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and service. The industry standard is 10% of the trip cost. Our guides will make every effort to see that your trip is enjoyable and successful. The common practice is to give the gratuity to the trip leader on the last night. It will later be divided equally with the rest of the crew. Paying in cash is the most common form of payment, though you can always bring along a check and make it out to the trip leader.

Are departures guaranteed?

While we fully expect to operate each of our scheduled departures, there may be times when circumstances beyond our reasonable control cause us to be unable to operate a specific departure. These may include, without limitation, acts of nature, government restrictions, pandemic or illness, weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances. Please reference our full policy provided at the time of reservation.

What if the date I want is sold out?

When searching availability online, you will find sold out dates grayed-out. Available dates appear in green, dependent upon on the number of seats requested in the search process. Please call us with questions or for clarification. We can put guests on a waitlist for a sold out date in case seats become available due to a cancellation. Also, we can suggest similar trips that may be excellent alternatives.

How far in advance should I make my reservation?

Desolation Canyon trip dates are scheduled June - mid August each year. The following year trip dates are available to book at least a year in advance. We suggest reserving early, to guarantee date of choice.

If I'm pregnant, can I still go rafting?

If you are pregnant, you will not be permitted to go rafting. Our trips take place in remote wilderness settings where access to advanced medical care can be hours away (possibly overnight), and conditions such as extreme heat and vigorous activity can exacerbate discomfort and any known or unknown conditions.

Please remember that you will not always be pregnant, but the river will always be here. We do not believe it is worth the risk, no matter how early you are in your pregnancy. We think moms are special and hope you understand.

If you think there is a chance that you may be pregnant after making your deposit you should take out cancellation insurance that would have coverage to cancel for any reason or plan to have someone take your place. We offer the name change option for you or anyone in your party for $50 per person.

Groups & Charters

What is the maximum number of guests on this trip?

Twenty-five is the maximum number of guests that may travel together, per the Bureau of Land Management.

How many guests per raft?

Guests per raft type:

Oar boats accommodate 4-6 guests, with 1 guide. Guide paddles
Inflatable kayaks (duckies) accommodate 1-2 guests, no guide. We bring enough duckies for guests to take turns throughout the trip.

Can I charter my own private trip?

We are able to accommodate most private charter trip requests. Mid-May to mid-June trip dates are automatically set aside each year specifically for charter groups. Also, a group of 20-25 guests usually becomes a private charter on any trip date, again, since the maximum number of guests that may travel together is 25. Other requests are evaluated individually by Operations and require consideration of date and number of guests, etc. For smaller groups, a fixed charter price may be offered.

What about group discounts?

There are no group rates.

What is the easiest way to get my friends booked on the same trip?

Arranging a group trip is an easy task! Begin by calling our office at 435-259-7019 to make your own reservation or reserve online. We can then email you a direct booking link to your trip date that you can share. Conversely, members of your group may call in and mention that they are traveling with you. If group members are paying separately each can have their own reservation while still being tied together as a group.

Depending on availability, it may be possible to place a courtesy hold for a few days on your specific trip date to enable your friends to call in with their own deposit. Seats would then be released from that hold as they place their individual reservations within your group.

What if I’m traveling solo?

Green River trips have no single supplements for solo travelers. The dedicated group of guests on each trip travel through the canyon together, rafting, hiking, camping, and enjoying meals together. A multi-day rafting trip offers a wonderful group travel environment.

Traveling with Children

What is the age limit for this trip and is it flexible?

Guests must be at least age 5 at time of travel. There are no exceptions to this age limit. Youth should weigh no less than 50 lbs. and must fit in our Coast Guard approved life vests. There is no maximum age limit, but guests will want to consider the physical nature of a wilderness river trip.

What if my kids are picky eaters?

Big ‘Western style” breakfasts begin the day with a variety of items. Food items include bacon, eggs, sausage, hash browns, french toast, fruit, etc. Various salads and sandwiches, including peanut butter and jelly are lunch offerings. Fruit, chips, and cookies are also served at lunch. Dinners will include steak, chicken, side dishes, along with an appetizers and dessert. An additional kids menu is included, with items such as macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, and chicken nuggets. Meals served on the trip can be found under "Dietary Requirements & Menu Substitutions" in this questions section.

Is this the best trip for younger children?

For guests as young as age 5, our Green River (dedicated 5-day river trip) and Southwest Sampler (two activities, an overnight rafting trip, lodging) trips are excellent choices. Guests age 9+ may participate on our Grand Canyon 3 or 4-Day trips.

Preparing & Packing

What should I bring?

Guests should bring clothing items, toiletries, a refillable water bottle, and a headlamp or flashlight in a soft-sided duffel bag, weighing 20 lbs or less. Weather and water temperatures will vary throughout the season, so being prepared for a variety of conditions is important. It is better to take something and not use it, than not have it and need it. Carefully following our packing list will assure that guests will be prepared. This page offers both a printable packing list and a video of how to pack:

https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon/pack...

Do I need a wetsuit?

We recommend a two-piece rainsuit that can be used as needed. A wetsuit is cumbersome to take on and off when rafting. On the Green River, water temperatures are cold early season and will continue to warm as the season progresses, so this extra layer is not always critical to protect against cold water temperatures. But, weather conditions vary, and even in warm summer months we have had guests grateful they had the extra layer to put on during inclement weather.

Can I bring my own lifejacket or PFD?

Guests are not allowed to bring their own lifejacket or PFD. Western River Expeditions is subject to regulations promulgated by the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and State Parks. All three of these agencies require that guests of commercial outfitters wear Type V Whitewater lifejackets. Personal life jackets are usually meant for lake sports and even Type III jackets, meant for kayaking or canoeing, are not acceptable for use by our guests.

Fortunately, the newer generations of Type V life jackets are very comfortable. They also have a lot more floatation than the typical personal jacket.

What about fishing on the river?

Fishing on the Green River is allowed and requires a Utah State fishing license. Fishing must be from shore while in camp, and is catch and release.

How should I be dressed the morning of my rafting trip?

Guests should be dressed, ready to raft! Meeting place is SpringHill Suites Marriott, 1865 N Hwy 191, Moab, UT. Swimsuit (or sports bra and quick dry underwear for women) under quick dry shirt and shorts, water shoes or sandals, then brimmed hat and sunglasses with retention device. Don’t forget a water bottle with carabiner, sunscreen and lip balm to go in the day bag.

What about sun protection?

The combination of sun and water demands adequate skin protection from sunburn. Plan to bring a plentiful supply of sunscreen, and 15+SPF lip balm to be reapplied throughout the day. A brimmed sun hat or baseball cap should have a retention device. Clothing items to consider include quick-dry long-sleeved shirts and long pants for additional coverage. Sarongs or bandanas (dipped in the river) provide sun protection and evaporative cooling effects. Plan to drink lots of fluids to keep hydrated.

How do I protect my belongings from getting wet?

Each guest is given a personal day bag (approx. 7”x13”) and water resistant gear bag. Items for day use should be put in the day bag, which is then rolled down and the straps clipped to keep contents dry. The gear bag accommodates a sleeping bag (we provide) along with the guest’s personal duffel bag (which should be no larger that 12”x13”x 24”). The gear bag is then rolled and clipped, and secured away on the raft during the day, available again in camp.

What gear is provided with the trip?

We provide all camping equipment (tents, cots, sleeping bags with sheets, camp chairs) for our guests to set up their personal campsite. We also provide a large gear bag (that carries the sleeping bag and duffel bag together and is inaccessible during the day) and a small day bag for items guests would like access to during the day (lip balm, sunscreen, camera, rain suit, etc). Plates and eating utensils are provided for meals.

What do I do with extra luggage?

For guests staying at SpringHill Suites, complimentary parking and storage of 2 bags per room (if needed or for heat sensitive items) is provided. Additional bags may be stored for $10. per bag per day.

For guests staying elsewhere prior to the trip, SpringHill Suites offers to store each bag for $10. per bag per day. Parking is complimentary.

Can I bring a camera on the river? What about charging it?

Cameras can be charged if guests bring a portable charging device. We recommend bringing extra batteries or a battery pack, rather than relying on a solar charger. If a cell phone is used for picture taking, it should be in airplane mode to conserve battery life, and be in a waterproof case. This video features some excellent camera tips:

We do have several guidelines and suggestions for camera use while on your trip. You are free to film and shoot photos during our trips, however, we ask that you consult with your guide before doing so. We have some guidelines you will be asked to follow. These include:

Shooting from an appropriate location - Wearing a camera in certain locations could endanger yourself or others around you. If you guide feels that your use of a camera may put you or another guest in danger, you may be asked to put the camera away or move to a safer location for filming.

No pole mounts or extension devices on rafts - Cameras cannot be mounted to poles or other extension devices while on rafts as this may endanger you or other guests.

Shut down cameras in emergency situations - For the privacy of those involved and your own personal safety, you will be expected to shut your camera down if first aid is being rendered or in an emergency situation. We need all guests to remain alert and undistracted from filming or taking pictures in such situations.

Anticipate battery or card change necessities - If you see your card getting full or battery getting low, change them ahead of time during an appropriate moment. Rafts or vehicles cannot be stopped to change batteries or memory cards.

Cameras may be damaged or lost - We cannot guarantee the safety of your camera. It may become wet, sandy, lost in the river, dropped on a hike, etc.

Respect the privacy of others - If someone does not want to be filmed or photographed, please respect their privacy.

If you’re wondering what type of camera is most suitable for the river, here are a few thoughts.

Waterproof/Shockproof Digital Cameras - These cameras are perfect for everyday use and have become very affordable with most at $100 to $300. They’re rugged and waterproof, but also elegant and trim like any other digital camera.

GoPro and Similar Cameras - Together with their durable waterproof cases, these cameras can take some nice shots while on and off the water. Generally, the wide angle zoom cannot be adjusted so this should be taken into consideration. We ask that you plan to mount these cameras only with the head strap or helmet mount options (bring your own helmet). You will not be allowed to mount the cameras anywhere on the rafts during travel on the river.

Larger SLR Cameras - It is possible to bring a larger SLR camera, but be sure to have something sturdy to protect it. We recommend a hard-shell Pelican Case if you’re planning to bring a more expensive camera. Space is limited on the boats, so we try to keep additional camera equipment minimal.

Aquapac - This is a good solution if you aren’t in the market for a brand new camera, but just want to protect the one you have. It is a flexible waterproof housing to fit a number of camera types -- including video cameras. You do need to make sure the plastic housing stays clean as you’re shooting through it, but a lot of our guests find this to be a nice solution.

See it at Red Rock Outfitters

Batteries and Cards - While your are in remote areas during your trip, there will not be any location to charge your batteries or devices. Consider bringing extra batteries and memory cards and don't forget to charge your extra batteries before you get to the river.

Small Float - You might consider attaching your camera to a small float that may save your camera if you happen to drop it in the river. GoPro sells a small, attachable float that fits on the back of the camera housing that many of our guests find useful.

Am I allowed to bring a drone on this trip?

Western River Expeditions and Moab Adventure Center do not allow the use of drones on any trips.

On the River

What is a typical day on the river? How much time is spent on the raft?

A typical day on the river begins with an early coffee/hot chocolate call, with breakfast to follow about 30 min. later. During this time, guests will also be getting dressed and ready for the day and disassembling their campsites. All equipment and gear is then repacked on the rafts, and we’re off for a day of adventure! Each day is a combination of rafting, hiking, exploring, free time and delicious meals. Guests are generally on the rafts an hour to an hour and a half at a time. There are bathroom breaks along the way. Depending on time of year, weather, and guide itinerary, each trip will vary, and determine what hikes are offered and which campsites will be used. Generally, guests would expect to be enjoying these activities for about 6-7 hours per day. By late afternoon, guides will choose a campsite and rafts are unloaded. While guides set up the bathroom and kitchen areas and prepare dinner, guests set up their personal campsites, bathe, and relax. Guides bring games and crafts especially for kids. Following appetizers, dinner, and dessert, guests might play games, socialize, and then get a good night’s sleep, ready for another fun day of adventures ahead.

What about rapids and water levels?

Rapids on the Green River are classified using the traditional class I-V rapid rating scale, which factors in not only water levels, but navigational difficulty. Rapids are class II-III, with calm water sections perfect for massive water fights!

What type of raft can I expect?

Guides do the rowing in 4-6 passenger comfortable 18 ft oar boats. A selection of inflatable kayaks are available for guests to share throughout the trip.

What is the water temperature on the river?

Early season trips will likely have water temperatures in the 55-60 degree range. As the season progresses, both the sun and warmer air temperatures affect the water temperatures, which will rise above 70 degrees.

What about swimming?

Warmer water temperatures accommodate fun swim breaks, when guests can float along or swim near the rafts in calm water sections of the river. Plan on big water fights for more fun along the way.

What bathroom facilities are available during my trip?

Because our trips operate in remote, backcountry settings, there are no permanent bathroom facilities. We use portable toilets that we haul with us. We’ve prepared a video describing toilet facilities on the river. Click on the link, watch the video and then call us if you have more questions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vH9uTeLXRVo

The portable toilets described in the video are available shortly after we set up camp each afternoon until we leave camp the next morning. During the day, the guides will make frequent stops at which you can go to the bathroom if needed. During the day, urination is done into the main river channel, but if you need to do more than this, just ask your guide and he/she will introduce you to our daytime toilet system.

What do I do about feminine hygiene during the trip?

If you expect to be menstruating during your trip, we recommend the use of tampons rather than pads. During the day, you will constantly be getting wet, so pads are not ideal. If you choose to use pads, we recommend wearing a good pair of waterproof rain pants.

A good strategy is to bring several sandwich-sized zip-lock bags pre-packed with individual tampons. The same bag can then be used for disposal after use. Toilet facilities will always be available while in camp and the guides will stop as often as is necessary during the day to accommodate your needs. We will always provide a means for discreet disposal of feminine hygiene items. It is best that you bring your own supplies, but we also carry a supply of feminine hygiene products.

Additional tips that have come from previous guests:

Bring a sarong that can be used for additional privacy. It also helps when changing clothes.
Wear a two-piece swimsuit such as a tankini with swimsuit bottoms covered by shorts. This is most comfortable for wearing lifejackets, sitting on boats and going to the bathroom.
Bring hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and non-applicator tampons.

Can I be contacted while on the river?

Once you are on the river, there is no way for you to be contacted. Messages left for you on your personal cell phone will be the best way for friends and family to reach you, once you have cell service again.

Can I contact others while on the river?

While satellite phones can be rented, service may be limited and reception poor. There is no way to exit the canyon if a subsequent conversation relays concerning news from home.

Mandated by the Bureau of Land Management, evacuations are only for serious on-river medical emergencies. A multi-day river trip is a wonderful setting for relaxation and time away from electronics.

What if there is a medical situation on the river?

All of our river guides are certified with a minimum of advanced first aid and many hold more advanced certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). We carry multiple, well stocked first aid kits on every trip and the guides will provide any “first aid” level care that is needed or you have the option of using our first aid supplies to treat yourself.

If the injury or illness requires medical attention beyond what is possible on the river, we evacuate the affected guest. The most common means of evacuation is via helicopter. However, on some river stretches, evacuation may occur using a high-speed boat or even a vehicle. We carry satellite phones that allow us to communicate with emergency medical professionals.

Because we are in remote, wilderness settings, it may take a while for more advanced medical help to arrive. Please note that the satellite phones are only used during emergency situations. Because they have limited battery life, we do not leave them on at all times and it is not possible to call the satellite phone to deliver a message from off the river. There is no cell phone reception in the remote canyons in which most of our trips are conducted.

The Great Outdoors

What can I expect at camp?

Prior to reaching the first camp and while on the river, guides will give a camp orientation. Late afternoon, they pull into camp and guests choose a personal campsite area, relative to the bathroom and kitchen areas which will be set up by the guides. Guests are then called back to the rafts to help unload gear and some supplies via a fire line. Guides give a tent and cot set up demonstration, then guests take their personal gear bags and other gear to their chosen campsite and get set up. While the guides prepare first appetizers and then dinner, guests may clean up for the day, rest and relax, explore the immediate camp, and visit with other guests. When dinner is served (about 30 minutes after appetizers), guests are given a plate, utensils and mug to use, then wash and keep in a provided plastic zip lock bag in the gear bag for use during the trip. If time permits, guides may have games or activities available. If a musical instrument has come along on the trip (guitar, ukulele, etc), musical performances are likely! Most guests go to bed not long after the sun goes down, ready to recharge from a busy day of rafting and exploring. Coffee/hot chocolate call comes at dawn, with breakfast about 30 minutes later. During this time, guests will be getting ready for the day, disassembling their personal campsite, and taking gear back down to the rafts to be loaded in a reverse fire line. Portable toilets and hand wash stations are first items set up in camp and taken down the following morning by the guides. Guests will be asked to use the hand wash station and hand sanitizer after bathroom visits in camp and before all meals. Even though our river trips are in wilderness settings, personal hygiene is a top priority and helps keep guests healthy and able to participate. Departure from camp is usually about 8:00 - 8:30 AM. Please refer to our website link for additional information:

Camping along the Green River

What are the sleeping arrangements during the trip?

All guests receive a sleeping bag with fresh sheets, a cot, and camp chair for use in camp each night. Additionally, 3-person tents are available that accommodate two cots and gear with a walkway in the middle. Many guests choose to sleep under the stars on their cots and set up a tent for privacy while changing, store gear, or in case of rain. Be sure to keep gear bags inside the tent, and possibly supplement with a heavy rock in each corner of the tent in case of wind. Tents sit on top of the sandy campsites and are not designed with stakes that would be pounded into the ground for stability. Solo travelers would be given their own tent and not expected to share. Tents and cots will be loaded back on the rafts each morning with all the other gear and re-distributed again when a new campsite is reached the next day.

Can I bring a CPAP machine on the river?

If you use a CPAP machine, please ensure that you can complete the trip if your CPAP machine fails or your batteries don’t last. Medical evacuation is only available for severe injury or an imminently life threatening condition. You must be able to safely complete the trip without a working device! Please contact our office to advise us if you will be bringing a cpap machine on your trip. 1-801-942-6669

Thank you for carefully considering additional challenges that traveling with a CPAP requires on a multi-day backcountry camping and rafting expedition. It is important to us that you choose wisely, and come well prepared to self-sufficiently manage this need while camping in the backcountry.

How do I bathe while on the river?

The river becomes the destination of choice for cleaning up, hair washing, shaving, brushing teeth, and doing laundry! Taking a cot to a flat area along the shore provides a nice place to sit and to keep personal cleansing items out of the sand.

Cleaning up and hair washing: Earth friendly soaps and shampoos, washcloth, and thin towel (to dry more quickly) work well. Guests access the water close to the shore. Scrub up, rinse in the river, and towel dry. Because of the dry desert climate, hair conditioner is a must. Good time to apply lotion on clean, dry skin.
Shaving is personal preference, but would be done at river’s edge using river water.
Brushing teeth: Always use clean drinking water for brushing teeth, which is always available on and off the rafts. Toothpaste spit goes right into the river:)
Laundry: It’s easy to rinse clothing items in the river, then clip to a piece of thin rope rigged as a closeline or secure to a branch or bush (in case of wind). Without overnight precipitation, they’ll easily dry by morning. Plan to take fewer clothing items and wear them more than once.
Skin and lips: The desert is an extremely dry environment, and sunscreen, unscented lotions, and SPF 15+ lip balm should be applied generously.

What about bugs?

We recommend that you bring and use a good mosquito repellent. The kind containing deet works best. As a general rule, mosquitoes are present on the first night of the trip but the farther downstream we travel, their numbers diminish or completely disappear. In high water years or earlier in the summer, they are more prevalent but in lower water years or later in the summer, they may not show up at all. The best plan is to be prepared for them.

Mosquitoes do not generally come out on to the water, so they are mostly only an issue while on shore. On Day 1 of the trip, we spend most of our time on the water, because there are less hiking opportunities, so it works out nicely. In camp, we provide tents so the mosquitoes won’t be a problem at night.

Other, non-biting, flying insects are present and mostly are an issue when they are attracted to your flashlight or headlamp. The way to solve this is to bring a headlamp that has the option of using a red light.

Many people worry about snakes and scorpions. Both are an important part of the desert ecosystem, but neither likes to be around humans very much. With proper precautions that will be explained by your guides, you can generally avoid them altogether.

While it is rare that we see snakes or scorpions, when we do, your guides are expert at moving them away from camp so they will not present a safety concern. We are respectful of these native creatures and we do our best not to harm them, but we also take all precautions to make sure they don’t bother our guests.

What do I do with jewelry while on the river?

It is best to leave your jewelry behind. Rafting is an active vacation and jewelry often gets in the way. Earrings and necklaces can get caught on lifejackets. Rings can also cause injuries when you are holding on tightly to ropes.

Food & Beverage

What meals are provided with the trip?

Lunch and dinner will be served the first day of your trip, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner days 2 -4. On day 5, breakfast will be served as usual before breaking camp, then guests will enjoy lunch on a big, sandy beach at the takeout.

What is the food like?

Delicious and plentiful! Fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, whole-grain breads, and desserts are presented in a mouth-watering array. Hearty breakfasts fuel guests for the day’s start and dutch oven desserts give a sweet finish to day’s end. Snacks are offered between meals periodically throughout the trip. These are the meals served:

Breakfasts

Bacon, eggs to order, hash browns, bagels, fresh fruit and OJ
Blueberry pancakes with assorted syrups, sausage links, fresh fruit and OJ
French toast with assorted syrups, Canadian bacon, fresh fruit and OJ
Omelettes, English muffins, pineapple and OJ
Coffee, hot tea, cocoa and cider are available every morning

Lunches

Lunch meats (turkey, ham, pastrami and roast beef), assorted breads, assorted cheeses, lettuce, tomato, pickles, olives and red onion. This lunch is served twice.
Chicken pita salad sandwiches with chicken, red onion, lettuce, tomato, cashews, mayo and spices. Assorted cheeses, pickles, red onion and olives.
Chicken Tortilla wraps, sliced chicken, grated cheese, cream cheese, Avocado, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, green leaf lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, pickles, olives, Peanut Butter, preserves
Hoagie sandwiches: lunch meats, sliced cheese, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, pickles, olives, Peanut Butter, preserves

All lunches include peanut butter and jelly, fresh fruit, chips, cookies and a variety of condiments.

Dinners

New York strip steak, green beans almondine, house salad, broccoli and cauliflower
Chicken Breasts, Spinach and Strawberry Salad with walnuts and bleu cheese, rice, corn, dinner rolls.
Fajitas, Mexican rice, veggies, fruit salad
Spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, salad

Alternative KIDS Menu

Chicken nuggets

Hot dogs

Quesadilla

Mac & Cheese

Crab dip with cream cheese, cocktail sauce and crackers
Bean dip, guacamole and salsa with corn chips
Chicken wings
Shrimp cocktail

Cobblers
Pineapple upside down cake
Fresh baked Dutch oven frosted cakes
Bananas Foster with ice cream
During fire restrictions, dessert options may vary

Snacks may include:

What beverages are supplied and what can I bring?

Western supplies cold water and low-calorie lemonade, available both on and off the rafts. Guests are encouraged to drink plenty of liquids to stay well hydrated, and can fill personal water bottles as desired. Filling a water bottle with smaller amounts more frequently gives guests a cold drink every time, and discourages wasting precious water that has been left to warm up.

If additional beverages are desired (soda, beer, other alcoholic beverages), guests may bring up to 12 cans or the equivalent thereof. Containers should be unbreakable. They will be kept cold and accessible on the raft.

What about dietary restrictions or food allergies?

On multi-day river trips, our food service is limited by several factors:

We use a portable, camp-stove style, kitchen with a limited cooking surface and a limited supply of propane.
Our cold and dry food storage capacity is also limited because it all has to fit on the boats along with the camp gear and the guests.
Because we operate in remote, rural locations, many items are simply not available.
Our guides, who are also the cooks, are so busy with all of the tasks involved with running a river trip, that they do not have excess time to prepare special food requests. They strive to maximize the time spent hiking, rafting and enjoying the canyon with less time spent preparing food.

Within these limitations, we’ve crafted a menu that is designed to be prepared quickly and efficiently and to appeal to a large variety of tastes. All of our meals are served “buffet or family style” with any custom, per person preparation being limited to things like “how would you like your steak cooked” or “do you prefer your eggs scrambled or over-easy?”

While we try to accommodate some special dietary needs, we are not always able. If you have a specific food allergy or sensitivity, please let us know. If you have dietary restrictions based on a lifestyle choice or religious practice, please let us know. If your food allergy is severe, we need to have a more in-depth conversation about what can and cannot be done.

Please understand that we may not be able to completely meet your needs. However, we have found that most people find what they need from within our established menu.

The policy we have developed to maximize the common welfare of all guests on a river trip, and to allow our guides to focus their time and attention on critical aspects of a trip is that:

Guests may bring supplemental items if they do not require special preparation by our guides, or use of our cooking facilities. We will always have an ample supply of snacks, fresh fruits, vegetables, and side items to choose from. While our storage space is limited, we have both cold and dry storage available on our boats for any supplemental products you may bring.
We cannot absolutely guarantee your safety if your food allergy is severe enough to cause anaphylaxis. You must bring an adequate supply of your own Epipens to meet your needs. Please understand that one injection of an epipen will only last 10-20 minutes and that an evacuation from the river may take hours.

Please let us know of any special dietary needs well in advance. Special food requests made within two weeks of the trip launch date may not be able to be accommodated.

Can I bring my own food and snacks?

We bring a variety of snacks on every trip. As a general rule, snacks will be served mid-morning and mid-afternoon while traveling down river. If you would like to bring some of your own snacks, small, pre-packaged items are best. We can provide cold or dry storage. If you have special dietary needs, bringing some of your own snacks that work well for you is a great idea.

Travel & Logistics

When is the best time to travel?

Flaming Gorge Dam, 32 miles downstream from the Utah-Wyoming border, regulates water releases into the Green River. Typically, air and water temperatures are coolest for early season trips (May to mid-June). Air and water temperatures continue to warm as the season progresses, with last trips typically early August. Personal preference helps guests choose best time to raft on the Green River.

What weather should I expect?

Because weather can be unpredictable, we recommend guests be prepared for both warmer and cooler weather conditions that may occur on the same trip. Check area weather conditions prior to the travel date, but realize that weather may vary in the canyon from Moab or wherever the weather readings were taken. This link may give an idea of what to expect:

Southern Utah Weather

How do I get there?

Driving directly to Moab, UT or flying into Grand Junction, CO (GJT) or Salt Lake City, UT (SLC) and then renting a car make getting to Moab easy. Marriott SpringHill Suites (where we meet our guests the morning of the trip) offers plenty of free parking for vehicles. Additionally, flights into Moab (CNY) from Phoenix (PHX) are available through Contour Air. Here are helpful details about getting to Moab:

http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/transportation/

What transportation is provided with the trip?

We provide transportation from SpringHill Suites to the Moab Airport (a 15 minute ride) for a 45 minute flight to Sandwash (the trip start) and then a comfortable approximate hour bus ride back to SpringHill Suites at the trip’s end.

What do I do with my car keys?

Pack car keys in a zippered pocket in your duffle bag. Alternately, they may be left at the hotel desk or with stored luggage while you are away.

What accommodations are recommended before and after the trip?

Marriott SpringHill Suites (where you will be picked up the morning of your trip at 6:30 AM and returned the last day), offers a discounted group rate to our Desolation Canyon guests. Link to make a reservation there can be found on our Desolation Canyon Travel Planning page.