Q: What kind of rapids will I encounter in Desolation Canyon?

You’ll run more than 60 named rapids, most of which are fun, splashy Class I–III. These rapids provide plenty of excitement without being overwhelming, making them ideal for families and first-timers. The rapids are spread throughout the trip, with calm water sections in between for swimming, relaxing, or playing games in the raft. Rafting these moderate rapids in your own 2-person inflatable kayak can definitely increase the excitement level for those in search of more thrills.

Q: What is camping like in Desolation Canyon?

Each night, you’ll camp at the river’s edge, often on wide sandy beaches shaded by cottonwood trees or beneath towering canyon walls. Guides set up a comfortable camp with tents, cots, and sleeping bags, and they prepare hearty meals each day. Evenings often include stargazing, games for kids, and quiet time by the river. Camping in Desolation feels remote, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Question 1

Who is the Desolation Canyon rafting trip best suited for?

Accepted Answer

This trip is perfect for families, especially those with children ages 5 and up, as well as couples or groups looking for a more relaxed wilderness adventure. With over 60 fun Class I&ndash;III rapids, plenty of calm water, and long sandy beaches for camping, it&rsquo;s approachable for first-time rafters while still offering excitement for seasoned adventurers.

Question 2

What are the physical requirements for a Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Guests should be in reasonable health and able to participate in an active wilderness adventure. You&rsquo;ll need to fit a Type V whitewater life jacket (50 lbs minimum; chest size up to 52"), hold on during 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 beaches and uneven ground. Hikes are optional but usually short and easy enough for families.

Question 3

How does Desolation Canyon compare to Cataract Canyon or Westwater?

Accepted Answer

Desolation Canyon is more remote and relaxed than Cataract or Westwater. Rapids here are mostly Class I&ndash;III, making them friendlier for families with younger kids. Unlike the more intense Class IV&ndash;V rapids of Cataract, Desolation focuses on a slower pace, wilderness camping, and exploration.

Question 4

What is the flight from Moab to Desolation Canyon like?

Accepted Answer

This trip begins with a scenic flight from Moab into a remote airstrip above the canyon. The small plane flight (typically 5&ndash;9 passengers) offers incredible views of the Green River and surrounding desert wilderness. The flight is included in your trip package and is often a highlight of the adventure. After landing, you&rsquo;ll hike down off of the plateau to meet your rafts and begin your river journey. The hike is a couple of miles and does include some steep and rocky terrain. Guests are welcome to ride in a van down to the river&rsquo;s edge if they would prefer not to hike.

Question 5

What type of rafts are used on the Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Trips typically use a mix of oar-powered rafts rowed by guides and 2-person inflatable kayaks (&ldquo;duckies&rdquo;) for those who want more independence. This variety allows everyone&mdash;from young kids to teens and adventurous adults&mdash;to experience the canyon at their own pace.

Question 6

What kind of rapids will I encounter in Desolation Canyon?

Accepted Answer

You&rsquo;ll run more than 60 named rapids, most of which are fun, splashy Class I&ndash;III. These rapids provide plenty of excitement without being overwhelming, making them ideal for families and first-timers. The rapids are spread throughout the trip, with calm water sections in between for swimming, relaxing, or playing games in the raft. Rafting these moderate rapids in your own 2-person inflatable kayak can definitely increase the excitement level for those in search of more thrills.

Question 7

What is camping like in Desolation Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Each night, you&rsquo;ll camp at the river&rsquo;s edge, often on wide sandy beaches shaded by cottonwood trees or beneath towering canyon walls. Guides set up a comfortable camp with tents, cots, and sleeping bags, and they prepare hearty meals each day. Evenings often include stargazing, games for kids, and quiet time by the river. Camping in Desolation feels remote, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Question 8

Can I bring a CPAP machine on a Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you must be able to finish the trip without it if your CPAP or batteries fail, since evacuations are reserved for true emergencies. Bring enough charged batteries for all nights of the trip, and let us know in advance so we can plan space for your device.

Question 9

Do I need rafting or camping experience for this trip?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is required. Our guides provide safety orientations, handle all camp logistics, and prepare meals. Guests of all ages quickly settle into the rhythm of rafting and camping. You just need to bring a sense of adventure and personal essentials&mdash;everything else is taken care of.

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Meals are hearty and served buffet-style, with hot breakfasts, fresh lunches, and filling dinners prepared by your guides. We can often provide vegetarian items or gluten-free breads and tortillas if requested in advance, but our river kitchens are limited. Guests with strict diets or severe allergies should bring supplemental snacks or items that don&rsquo;t require special preparation.

Question 11

How are food allergies handled on Desolation Canyon trips?

Accepted Answer

Please tell us about your allergies and their severity before your trip. We do our best to set aside portions before adding nuts, dairy, or other ingredients, but we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. If you have a severe allergy, you must bring at least two epinephrine auto-injectors and some extra safe snacks or desserts.

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

We provide cold water and flavored drink mix throughout the trip. Bring a refillable water bottle for easy refills on and off the raft. You may bring a small amount of canned soda or beer; glass containers are not allowed.

Question 13

Can I bring my own snacks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide snacks each day, but many guests like to bring their favorites&mdash;especially for kids. Small, sealed packages are easiest, and we can store them in dry or cold boxes.

Question 14

What’s a typical day like in Desolation Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Each day starts with coffee or cocoa, followed by breakfast. After breaking camp, you&rsquo;ll raft for an hour or two at a time, stopping for short hikes, bathroom breaks, and a picnic-style lunch. You&rsquo;ll raft a mix of calm water and Class I&ndash;III rapids, with time to swim when conditions allow. In the afternoon, guides set up camp and prepare dinner while you relax, play games with the kids, or explore the beach. Evenings end with dessert and stargazing before a good night&rsquo;s sleep.

Question 15

What bathroom facilities are available on the trip?

Accepted Answer

In camp, we use a portable toilet system set up in a private location. During the day, guides make “pit stops” for liquid waste in the river current, following river regulations. For #2 emergencies during the day, we’ll provide supplies and instructions for a clean and discreet process.

Question 16

What should I do about feminine hygiene on the river?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

Our guides are trained in wilderness medicine and carry first-aid kits and satellite communication devices. For serious illness or injury, evacuation is coordinated by helicopter or other means if available, but because we are in remote backcountry, response times can vary.

Question 18

How do I bathe or wash up on a Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

Most guests rinse off in the river using biodegradable soap, a washcloth, and a quick-dry towel. Brushing teeth should be done with drinking water. Clothes can be rinsed and dried at camp, and lotion, lip balm, and conditioner are helpful in the dry desert air.

Question 19

Do I need a wetsuit in Desolation Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Not unless you&rsquo;re rafting in the winter. In June, the water can be chilly, but for those who are prone to get cold easily, generally just a rain jacket is sufficient. By July and August, the water and air are warm enough that you&rsquo;ll be spending a lot of time cooling off by floating down the river in your life jacket.

Question 20

Should I bring cameras or electronics on the trip?

Accepted Answer

This is a perfect trip to unplug, so avoid bringing laptops, tablets, or other large electronics&mdash;they&rsquo;ll likely be damaged by heat, sand, or water. A single phone or small camera for photos is plenty; not everyone in the family needs to bring one since there&rsquo;s no cell service. Kids especially benefit from disconnecting and rediscovering simple fun on the river. If you bring a device, store it in a waterproof case with a strap. Small power banks work, but drones are not allowed in this wilderness area.

Question 21

What do I do with extra luggage during my Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

We can store extra bags securely at our Springhill Suites meeting location in Moab while you&rsquo;re on the river. Only bring what fits in the waterproof dry bags we provide.

Question 22

How do the overnight and day bags work?

Accepted Answer

Each guest gets two dry bags. The large overnight bag holds your camp gear and clothing and stays strapped to the raft until evening. The smaller day bag rides with you on the raft and should hold sunscreen, water bottle, rain jacket, snacks, medications, and a camera in a waterproof case.

Question 23

When does the Desolation Canyon trip run, and what season is best?

Accepted Answer

Trips generally operate from June through August. Early summer often means higher flows and splashier rapids, while later in the season the water is calmer and warmer&mdash;perfect for swimming. Because this trip is family-focused, many guests choose July and August for school breaks and comfortable camping weather.

Question 24

What should I pack for the Desolation Canyon trip?

Accepted Answer

You&rsquo;ll receive a detailed packing list after booking, but in general you&rsquo;ll want quick-dry clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, and plenty of sun protection. Towels, personal toiletries, and a light jacket for cool evenings are also recommended. All rafting and camping gear is provided.

Question 25

How far in advance should I book Desolation Canyon?

Accepted Answer

Because Desolation Canyon is one of the most family-friendly rafting adventures in Utah and one of the top rafting trips in America, limited departures often sell out months in advance. Booking early is the best way to ensure your preferred dates and give your family plenty of time to prepare for this wilderness experience.

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5-Day Desolation Canyon Wilderness Expedition

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Desolation Canyon Trip Details

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

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PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

EPIC WILDERNESS ESCAPE

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