Colorado River Kayaking: A Must-Do in Moab
Kayaking the Colorado River is more than just an adventure—it’s an immersion into Moab’s breathtaking landscapes, where towering red rock cliffs rise above the calm waters of one of the world’s most iconic rivers. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or dipping your oar in for the first time, this experience offers excitement and tranquility. From serene floats to thrilling rapids, there’s a stretch of river that’s calling your name. Let the Colorado River guide you on a journey where each bend reveals Moab’s desert wonders.
About the Colorado River
The mighty Colorado River, stretching 1,450 miles from the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to Mexico, is the heartbeat of the desert. As it winds and carves through canyons, it breathes life into the desert, sustaining flora and fauna, and offering an unparalleled setting for adventure. Moab’s section of the river borders Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and boasts a mix of calm waters and mild-to-moderate rapids, making it perfect for all skill levels. Paddle beneath sandstone cliffs, watch desert wildlife sip from the shore, and see reflections of Utah’s sun-drenched sky on the water’s surface.
When is the Best Time for Colorado River Kayaking
Colorado River kayaking is best from March through October, with the river’s temperament shifting with the seasons. Spring and early summer bring snowmelt-fed rapids for a livelier ride, while late summer and fall offer a more relaxed float. No matter the season, a guided tour ensures you’re in expert hands, allowing you to navigate the currents with ease. Whether you crave adventure or tranquility, there’s no wrong time to dip your paddle in the water.
How to Prepare for Colorado River Kayaking
Most guided tours accommodate all skill levels, welcoming children as young as 10. However, those ages 10-12 must ride tandem with an adult. No prior experience is required, but knowing how to swim is essential. Booking with a reputable outfitter guarantees top-tier equipment, expert instruction, and a memorable experience. Guides provide safety briefings and paddling techniques so you can confidently go with the flow.
What to Wear and Bring
Knowing what to wear on a Colorado River kayaking trip will help you prepare for a comfortable ride so you can soak in every moment of the adventure:
- Quick-dry fabric clothing
- Additional layers like a long sleeve shirt or light jacket
- Swimsuit
- Water shoes or water sandals with an ankle strap
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Guide gratuity
A personal flotation device (PFD) will be provided on guided trips and must be worn at all times.
Recommended Colorado River Kayaking Tours
For the ultimate Moab adventure, book a half-day guided kayaking trip (about 4 hours) on the Colorado River. Inflatable kayaks offer stability and ease of maneuvering, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. As you navigate the winding river, you’ll pass through breathtaking canyons, spot wildlife along the banks, and hear stories about Moab’s geology and history from expert guides. Many tours head to the narrow regions of the river, such as Fisher Towers, Westwater Canyon, and Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park.
Discover More Desert Adventures
Moab is an outdoor playground with world-class adventures both on and off the river. Calm sections of the Colorado River provide the perfect setting for stand-up paddle boarding, wild swimming, fishing, and canoeing. For those seeking land-based thrills, hike in Arches National Park, bike the legendary Slickrock Trail, or gaze up at the Milky Way in one of the darkest night skies in the country. Here are a few more must-do experiences in Moab:
Rafting
Conquer exhilarating whitewater sections of the Colorado River.
Canyoneering
Climb, scramble, and rappel your way into breathtaking slot canyons in Moab, the origin of modern canyoneering.
Sunset Hummer Safari
Take an off-road adventure into the rugged backcountry for spectacular desert views.
Where to Stay in Moab
After a day of paddling the Colorado River, retreat to ULUM Moab, where refined luxury blends seamlessly with its desert surroundings. Relax in safari-inspired Suite Tents, each with a king-size bed, en suite bathroom, amenities you would expect from a MICHELIN Key Hotel, and private decks with sweeping desert views. Rejuvenate body and mind with hot and cool dipping pools, center yourself with guided yoga and crystal sound bath sessions, and unwind in the evenings with live acoustic music, paint nights, and nightly s’mores beneath a vast, starlit sky.
