Q: What is camping like on the Cataract Canyon Classic?

Each night is spent along the river’s edge, often on sandy beaches with red rock walls and star-filled skies as your backdrop. All camping gear is provided, and guides take care of meals, and camp logistics. Meals include hot breakfasts, hearty lunches, and multi-course dinners, often prepared with fresh ingredients right at camp. The experience combines the simplicity of the outdoors with the comfort of a well-organized trip.

Question 1

Who is the Cataract Canyon 4-Day Classic rafting trip best suited for?

Accepted Answer

The 4-Day Classic is ideal for travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in Canyonlands National Park while experiencing some of North America&rsquo;s most powerful rapids. Families with teens, adventurous couples, and active groups love the combination of rafting, hiking, and camping under the stars. With a minimum age of 12 (May-June) and a minimum age of 10 (July-September), this trip is best for families with tween and teens, adults traveling together, or solo travelers.

Question 2

What are the physical requirements for a Cataract Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Guests should be in reasonable health and able to participate in an active wilderness trip. You&rsquo;ll need to fit a Type V whitewater life jacket (minimum 50 lbs; chest size up to 52"), hold on during Class III&ndash;V rapids, and be able to swim to the raft or shore if you fall in. At camp, you&rsquo;ll carry your own dry bag across sandy or uneven ground. Short side hikes are part of the trip and require mobility over rocky terrain.

Question 3

How does the 4-Day Classic compare to the 2-Day Express?

Accepted Answer

Both trips cover the same 100-mile stretch of the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon. The 2-Day Cataract Canyon Express is designed for speed, using motorized boats to move quickly to the rapids. The 4-Day Cataract Canyon Classic takes a slower, more traditional approach, using oar and paddle rafts for much of the season and adding time for side hikes, extra stops, and camp life. If you want to focus on the biggest rapids in the shortest timeframe, choose the 2-Day Express; if you want a deeper, more relaxed experience, the 4-Day Classic is the way to go.

Question 4

What kind of rapids will I encounter in Cataract Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Cataract Canyon is famous for some of the largest whitewater in North America. Depending on the season, you may run up to 30 rapids ranging from Class III to Class V, with legendary drops like The Big Drops, Little Niagra, Satan&rsquo;s Gut, Capsize, and The Claw. The power of these rapids is amplified in spring during peak runoff. While intense, these sections are balanced by calm stretches that allow time for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the scenery.

Question 5

What type of rafts are used on the Cataract Canyon 4-Day Classic trip?

Accepted Answer

The raft type depends on the season and water flows. In the high-water months of spring, the trip often uses patented J-rigs, large motorized rafts specifically engineered to provide stability and safety in Cataract&rsquo;s biggest waves. Later in the season, when water levels are more moderate, the trip is run with a combination of oar-powered rafts rowed by guides and paddle rafts where guests can join in the action. This mix offers both a relaxed pace through calm stretches and exciting teamwork in the rapids.

Question 6

How long is the 4-Day Classic and what’s included?

Accepted Answer

The trip lasts four days, with 3 nights of camping on the river, and covers roughly 100 miles of river through Canyonlands National Park. It includes all rafting and safety equipment, camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, cots), and all meals from lunch on the first day through lunch on the final day. Transportation to the river and a scenic flight from Lake Powell back to Moab is also included. All you need to bring are personal items and clothing appropriate for the season, and a detailed packing list is provided after booking.

Question 7

What is the return flight like from Lake Powell back to Moab?

Accepted Answer

At the end of the 4-Day Classic, the trip concludes near Lake Powell where you&rsquo;ll board a small aircraft (typically a 5&ndash;9 passenger plane) for the return to Moab. The flight lasts about 40 minutes and is included in your trip package. In addition to saving several hours of driving through remote desert roads, the flight provides unforgettable aerial views of Canyonlands National Park, the Colorado River, and Lake Powell. It&rsquo;s both a practical transfer and a scenic highlight of the trip.

Question 8

Do I need previous rafting or camping experience?

Accepted Answer

No prior rafting or camping experience is required. Our professional guides provide thorough safety orientations, guide hikes, and prepare delicious meals riverside. Guests should be in reasonable health, comfortable around water, and ready for Class III&ndash;V rapids. Many first-time rafters and campers find the 4-Day Classic an excellent way to experience both adventure and the outdoors with expert support.

Question 9

What is camping like on the Cataract Canyon Classic?

Accepted Answer

Each night is spent along the river&rsquo;s edge, often on sandy beaches with red rock walls and star-filled skies as your backdrop. All camping gear is provided, and guides take care of meals, and camp logistics. Meals include hot breakfasts, hearty lunches, and multi-course dinners, often prepared with fresh ingredients right at camp. The experience combines the simplicity of the outdoors with the comfort of a well-organized trip.

Question 10

Can I bring a CPAP machine on the river?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you must be prepared to complete the trip even if your machine or batteries fail, since evacuations are reserved for true emergencies. Bring enough charged batteries for all nights, and let us know in advance so we can allocate space for your device.

Question 11

What kind of food is served, and can you handle dietary needs?

Accepted Answer

Meals are hot, hearty, and buffet-style, with fresh breakfasts, picnic-style lunches, and multi-course dinners prepared by your guides. Vegetarian options and gluten-free breads or tortillas can usually be provided if requested ahead of time. For strict diets or severe allergies, please bring supplemental foods that don&rsquo;t require guide preparation.

Question 12

How are food allergies handled on Cataract trips?

Accepted Answer

Please tell us your allergies and severity before the trip. We do our best to set aside portions before adding nuts, dairy, or other common ingredients, but we cannot guarantee an allergen-free kitchen. Guests with severe allergies should bring at least two epinephrine auto-injectors and additional safe snacks.

Question 13

What drinks are provided, and can I bring my own?

Accepted Answer

Cold water and flavored drink mix are provided throughout the trip. Bring a refillable water bottle for frequent refills. You may also bring a small supply of canned beverages like soda or beer. Glass containers are not allowed.

Question 14

Can I bring my own snacks on the river?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide snacks daily, but you&rsquo;re welcome to bring favorites, especially for kids or special diets. Small, sealed packages are best, and we can store them in dry or cold boxes.

Question 15

What’s a typical day like on the Cataract Canyon Classic?

Accepted Answer

Days start with hot drinks and breakfast, followed by breaking camp and rafting through calm stretches and rapids. Expect 60&ndash;90 minute river legs, with stops for swimming, hikes, snacks, and a riverside lunch. By late afternoon, we select a campsite, and guides set up kitchen and bathroom areas while you set up your personal camp. Evenings include appetizers, dinner, stories, and stargazing before bed.

Question 16

What bathroom facilities are available?

Accepted Answer

In camp, we set up a portable toilet system in a private location. During the day, guides make “pit stops” for liquid waste in the river, per regulations. If you need to go #2 emergencies during the day, guides will provide supplies and instructions for a discreet, clean process.

Question 17

What should I do about feminine hygiene during the trip?

Accepted Answer

Tampons are usually easiest since you&rsquo;ll be in and out of water. Bring your preferred products, plus zip-bags for discreet disposal. Guides will make stops as needed, and camp toilets are available morning and evening.

Question 18

What if there’s a medical situation on the river?

Accepted Answer

Guides are trained in wilderness medicine and carry first-aid kits and satellite communications. Serious medical issues may require helicopter or boat evacuation, but response times vary depending on conditions. Guests should be in reasonable health to join the trip.

Question 19

How do I bathe or wash up on the river?

Accepted Answer

Most guests rinse off in the river with biodegradable soap, a washcloth, and a quick-dry towel. Brushing teeth should be done with drinking water provided by guides. Clothing can be rinsed and dried at camp. Lotion, conditioner, and lip balm help with the dry desert air.

Question 20

Do I need a wetsuit for Cataract Canyon?

Accepted Answer

In spring, water can be cold, and rain suit or splash jackets are essential. By summer, quick-dry clothing, a rain shell, and secure footwear are all you’ll need.

Question 21

Should I bring cameras or electronics on the trip?

Accepted Answer

We strongly suggest leaving laptops, tablets, and other large electronics at home. Heat, sand, and water can easily damage them, and there&rsquo;s no way to charge or protect them in the canyon. A cell phone or small camera is fine for photos, but keep it simple&mdash;there&rsquo;s no cell service, and part of the experience is disconnecting from the outside world. If you bring a device, use a true waterproof case with a strap, and consider a small power bank. Drones are not permitted in Canyonlands National Park.

Question 22

What do I do with extra luggage during my trip?

Accepted Answer

We can store extra bags securely in Moab. Only bring what fits in the waterproof dry bags provided.

Question 23

How do overnight bags and day bags work?

Accepted Answer

Each guest receives two waterproof dry bags. A large overnight bag holds your camp gear and clothing and is only accessed at camp. A smaller day bag rides with you on the raft and should carry sunscreen, water bottle, rain jacket, snacks, medications, and a waterproof camera.

Question 24

When does the Cataract Canyon 4-Day Classic run, and what season is best?

Accepted Answer

The trip generally operates from May through September. Spring and early summer often bring higher, more powerful rapids, while late summer and early fall offer calmer flows and warmer water, making swimming and floating more enjoyable. Both seasons provide incredible experiences&mdash;the best choice depends on whether you want the biggest water or a more laid-back pace.

Question 25

Can I swim during the Cataract Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but swimming is always at the guide&rsquo;s discretion. The calm water on the first couple of days is perfect for swimming and floating. The calm stretches of river between rapids are also perfect for floating in your life jacket, especially in the warmer months of summer. During high water, swimming is more limited due to the stronger current and cooler water.

Question 26

How far in advance should I book the Cataract Canyon 4-Day Classic?

Accepted Answer

Because of limited departures and high demand, especially in May and June, the Classic often sells out months in advance. Booking early ensures your spot and gives you more flexibility to plan the rest of your Moab adventure around this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

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Highlights

4-Day Cataract Canyon & Canyonlands National Park

What’s Included

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4-Day Cataract Canyon Details

EPIC WHITEWATER

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

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