Is the Mid-Day rafting trip good for families and kids?

Yes. The Mid-Day Colorado River trip is designed for families with children as young as five (minimum 50 lbs). The mix of calm water and Class I–II rapids (sometimes Class III during spring high water) keeps kids entertained without being too intense. Parents and grandparents also enjoy the pace, and many families say the addition of a riverside BBQ lunch makes it a highlight of their Moab vacation.

How adventurous is the Mid-Day rafting trip—whitewater or mostly calm float?

This section of the Colorado River combines calm stretches with splashy Class I–II rapids, and Class III waves may appear in spring. It’s not as extreme as Westwater or Cataract Canyon, but it provides enough action to keep families, first-timers, and even teens engaged. Guests often describe it as a “perfect balance” of excitement and relaxation.

What time does the Mid-Day rafting adventure start and end?

The trip covers about 7 miles of river and lasts roughly 4.5 hours, including shuttle transfers and lunch. Departures are at 11:00 AM, with most groups returning to Moab by mid-to-late afternoon. The midday start gives you time to enjoy a relaxed morning, while still leaving room in the evening for another adventure, such as a Sunset Hummer Safari or Arches National Park tour.

What’s included with the Mid-Day rafting trip and lunch?

This adventure includes professional guides, all required rafting gear (rafts, paddles, and Coast Guard–approved life jackets), shuttle transportation, and a riverside BBQ lunch at a private ranch. Lunch options may include freshly grilled burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or veggie patties, plus salads, sides, cookies, lemonade, and iced tea. Gluten-free and vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking.

Do I have to paddle the whole time on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

No. Trips use oar-assisted rafts, where your guide does the main rowing. Guests are welcome to paddle along, and the guide may invite extra paddling in rapids, but you won’t be paddling the entire way. Inflatable kayaks are sometimes available for guests who want a more hands-on challenge.

Can I swim during the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Yes. On calm stretches, guides may allow guests to jump in with their life jackets (PFDs) and float alongside the raft. Swimming is optional, and guides will let you know when conditions are suitable. Water is cooler in spring, so many guests prefer swimming later in the summer.

What should I wear and bring on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure footwear that can get wet (water shoes or sandals with straps—no flip-flops), and sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen). Bring a refillable water bottle—each guest also receives a complimentary souvenir bottle you can use during the trip.

Does the Mid-Day rafting trip run in bad weather?

Trips run in most conditions, including light rain. Spring often brings higher, splashier water, while late summer is usually calmer and warmer. If river or weather conditions make it unwise to operate, trips may be rescheduled or refunded.

Will there be time to take photos on the Mid-Day rafting adventure?

Yes. There are plenty of opportunities during calm sections and at lunch to capture the scenery, wildlife, and your group. A waterproof camera or phone case with a strap is highly recommended. Guides are also happy to take group photos at the riverside ranch or during calmer stretches.

When does the Mid-Day rafting trip run, and what’s the best time of year to go?

The Mid-Day Colorado River trip typically operates from March through October. Spring (May–June) often brings higher water from snowmelt, which can create splashier rapids and even some Class III waves. By late summer, the river usually runs lower and calmer, with warmer water that many families enjoy for swimming. Both seasons are popular—the best choice depends on whether you prefer more excitement in spring or a gentler ride in summer.

How far in advance should I book the Mid-Day rafting trip?

The Mid-Day rafting adventure is one of our most popular half-day options and often sells out weeks ahead. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and departure time, and helps you coordinate rafting with other Moab adventures in your itinerary.

Raft 7 miles of the Colorado River on a relaxing midday float with splashy rapids.
Fun for all ages: Class I–II+ waves most of the season; spring flows can rise to Class III.
Pause for a riverside BBQ lunch surrounded by Moab’s red rock cliffs.
Convenient late-morning start leaves time for other Moab adventures.

Mid-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch

★★★★★ 4.9 Out of 2,463 Reviews

Guide appreciation

Gratuities for your guide are at your discretion and are always appreciated. A common practice is 10-20% of the tour cost.

Personal Items

Bring your own sun protection, water shoes, swimsuit/quick-dry clothing, and a daypack.

Dry Bag

Small waterproof bags are available at the Moab Adventure Center if you’d like to keep a few essentials—like a phone, camera, or extra layer—close at hand and dry. We recommend leaving valuables behind whenever possible. Car keys can be securely left with our staff before your trip.

Enjoy one of Moab’s most popular adventures with this half-day taste of the Colorado River. Launch just below Rocky Rapid and float through calm, scenic water toward our exclusive riverside ranch, where a hot barbecue lunch awaits. The smell of fresh barbecue and sizzling burgers drifts through the canyon as you relax in the shade and enjoy freshly grilled burgers, chicken, or veggie patties, crisp salads, giant cookies, and ice-cold lemonade.

After lunch, head back to the river for more fun as the canyon walls rise higher and the rapids return. Splash through White’s Rapid and a few lively waves along one of the West’s most cinematic byways, tracing the border of Arches National Park.

Choose a shared paddle raft or try an inflatable kayak (availability may vary by time of year and water levels). It’s a perfect blend of sunshine, scenery, and refreshing adventure in the heart of red rock country.

Raft floating down the Colorado River on calm water with huge sandstone cliffs and green vegetation.

Moab Mid-Day Rafting Tour Details

WHITEWATER RAPIDS

Gentle rapids and calm waters make this trip perfect for families, first-time rafters, and kids eager to get on the river.

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

Meet in Moab, ride with us to the river, and float back into iconic scenery. No stress, just pure adventure.

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

Our guides bring Moab alive with river lore, geology, and wildlife spotting, turning a scenic float into lasting family stories.

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

From shuttles and gear to riverside BBQ lunches, every detail is handled. Just show up ready to paddle and play.

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

Splash through fun rapids, drift past soaring cliffs, and stop to swim, all at a pace that fits every age and energy level.

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

Float past Castle Valley and Fisher Towers, red rock spires made famous in films and more stunning in person.

"Amazing Scenery Rafting in Moab"

★★★★★
Our PM half-day rafting trip was fantastic! Jace was a fun, informative guide who made the day memorable, and lunch was fabulous. We’re already recommending Moab Adventure Center to friends!

Terry - Bend, OR

"Awesome Day, Awesome Guides"

★★★★★
Same-day booking was easy thanks to Sharon’s help. Our guide Chris made the calm-water half-day rafting trip fun, comfortable, and full of energy. Lunch exceeded expectations—highly recommend Moab Adventure Center!

Chase - Seattle, WA

"Colorado River PM Half Day Trip"

★★★★★
Reservation staff went above and beyond, and our guide Taylor was amazing—friendly, patient, and skilled even when wind and a slow crew made paddling tough. Lots of fun, and we’ll be back for a more challenging run next time!

Charity - Bozeman, MO

4.9 ★★★★★

852+ REVIEWS

4.9 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

5.0 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

4.7 ★★★★★

345+ REVIEWS

Colorado River Rafting Mid-Day Adventure Trip Reviews

Your Raft on the Colorado River

Is the Mid-Day rafting trip good for families and kids?
Yes. The Mid-Day Colorado River trip is designed for families with children as young as five (minimum 50 lbs). The mix of calm water and Class I–II rapids (sometimes Class III during spring high water) keeps kids entertained without being too intense. Parents and grandparents also enjoy the pace, and many families say the addition of a riverside BBQ lunch makes it a highlight of their Moab vacation.
How adventurous is the Mid-Day rafting trip—whitewater or mostly calm float?
This section of the Colorado River combines calm stretches with splashy Class I–II rapids, and Class III waves may appear in spring. It’s not as extreme as Westwater or Cataract Canyon, but it provides enough action to keep families, first-timers, and even teens engaged. Guests often describe it as a “perfect balance” of excitement and relaxation.
What time does the Mid-Day rafting adventure start and end?
The trip covers about 7 miles of river and lasts roughly 4.5 hours, including shuttle transfers and lunch. Departures are at 11:00 AM, with most groups returning to Moab by mid-to-late afternoon. The midday start gives you time to enjoy a relaxed morning, while still leaving room in the evening for another adventure, such as a Sunset Hummer Safari or Arches National Park tour.
What’s included with the Mid-Day rafting trip and lunch?
This adventure includes professional guides, all required rafting gear (rafts, paddles, and Coast Guard–approved life jackets), shuttle transportation, and a riverside BBQ lunch at a private ranch. Lunch options may include freshly grilled burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or veggie patties, plus salads, sides, cookies, lemonade, and iced tea. Gluten-free and vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking.
Do I have to paddle the whole time on the Mid-Day rafting trip?
No. Trips use oar-assisted rafts, where your guide does the main rowing. Guests are welcome to paddle along, and the guide may invite extra paddling in rapids, but you won’t be paddling the entire way. Inflatable kayaks are sometimes available for guests who want a more hands-on challenge.
Can I swim during the Mid-Day rafting trip?
Yes. On calm stretches, guides may allow guests to jump in with their life jackets (PFDs) and float alongside the raft. Swimming is optional, and guides will let you know when conditions are suitable. Water is cooler in spring, so many guests prefer swimming later in the summer.
What should I wear and bring on the Mid-Day rafting trip?
Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure footwear that can get wet (water shoes or sandals with straps—no flip-flops), and sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen). Bring a refillable water bottle—each guest also receives a complimentary souvenir bottle you can use during the trip.
Does the Mid-Day rafting trip run in bad weather?
Trips run in most conditions, including light rain. Spring often brings higher, splashier water, while late summer is usually calmer and warmer. If river or weather conditions make it unwise to operate, trips may be rescheduled or refunded.
Will there be time to take photos on the Mid-Day rafting adventure?
Yes. There are plenty of opportunities during calm sections and at lunch to capture the scenery, wildlife, and your group. A waterproof camera or phone case with a strap is highly recommended. Guides are also happy to take group photos at the riverside ranch or during calmer stretches.
When does the Mid-Day rafting trip run, and what’s the best time of year to go?
The Mid-Day Colorado River trip typically operates from March through October. Spring (May–June) often brings higher water from snowmelt, which can create splashier rapids and even some Class III waves. By late summer, the river usually runs lower and calmer, with warmer water that many families enjoy for swimming. Both seasons are popular—the best choice depends on whether you prefer more excitement in spring or a gentler ride in summer.
How far in advance should I book the Mid-Day rafting trip?
The Mid-Day rafting adventure is one of our most popular half-day options and often sells out weeks ahead. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and departure time, and helps you coordinate rafting with other Moab adventures in your itinerary.

4-Day Cataract Canyon & Canyonlands National Park

Journey 100 miles through remote red rock canyons with roaring whitewater & star-filled nights on this all-inclusive expedition from Moab to Lake Powell.

Duration: 4 Days
Departures: Tue-Fri
Season: May - Sep

5-Day Desolation Canyon Wilderness Expedition

Unplug and reconnect with five days of rafting, canyon hikes, starry nights & sandy beaches in one of America’s most peaceful wilderness adventures.

Duration: 5 Days
Departures: Vary
Season: Jun -Aug

4-Day "Southwest Sampler" Moab Vacation Package

Experience Moab’s best with one epic family-friendly package: two nights in town, a Hummer Safari, Arches National Park tour, plus two days of rafting and a night of riverside camping under the stars.

Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights
Departures: Weekly
Season: May-Sept

TOURS & ADVENTURES

ATTRACTIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS

AREA INFORMATION

Highlights

Mid-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch

What’s Included

What’s Not Included

Mid-Day Fun Colorado River Rafting: Scenic Floats, BBQ Lunch, and Exciting Splashes Near Arches National Park

Moab Mid-Day Rafting Tour Details

WHITEWATER RAPIDS

HASSLE-FREE LOGISITICS

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

"Amazing Scenery Rafting in Moab"

"Awesome Day, Awesome Guides"

"Colorado River PM Half Day Trip"

4.9 ★★★★★

4.9 ★★★★★

5.0 ★★★★★

4.7 ★★★★★

What to Bring on this Tour

Cancellations

Book With Confidence

Direct Booking Price Guarantee

Great Tour Guarantee

Award-Winning Adventures

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mid-Day rafting trip good for families and kids?

How adventurous is the Mid-Day rafting trip—whitewater or mostly calm float?

What time does the Mid-Day rafting adventure start and end?

What’s included with the Mid-Day rafting trip and lunch?

Do I have to paddle the whole time on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Can I swim during the Mid-Day rafting trip?

What should I wear and bring on the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Does the Mid-Day rafting trip run in bad weather?

Will there be time to take photos on the Mid-Day rafting adventure?

When does the Mid-Day rafting trip run, and what’s the best time of year to go?

How far in advance should I book the Mid-Day rafting trip?

Make the Most of Moab

Mid-Day Moab Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch