HOTCHKISS RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Two-Day Drift Through Escalante’s Sandstone: 39 Miles of Scenic Rafting to Big Dominquez Falls
A two-day, 39-mile float on the Gunnison through the Dominguez‑Escalante NCA offering sandstone canyons, petroglyphs, abundant wildlife and a waterfall hike—the essential guide for planning this family-friendly trip.
Two-Day Drift Through Escalante’s Sandstone: 39 Miles of Scenic Rafting to Big Dominquez Falls.
The run out of Hotchkiss slides into the gateway of the Dominguez‑Escalante National Conservation Area: low, wide water that becomes a carved corridor of sandstone walls rising toward 8,000 feet, punctuated by petroglyphs, waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Over two days you’ll float roughly 39 miles with mostly easy water (Class I and II, with one Class II rapid), camp and relax along the river, and hike to the jewel of the route at Big Dominquez Creek.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sandstone Canyons and Mesa Views
A few miles past the launch the canyon walls rise dramatically, revealing the sculpted sandstone mesas and geologic features that define the Dominguez‑Escalante landscape—scenery that dominates this scenic float.
Wildlife Watching and Petroglyphs
The corridor supports abundant wildlife and bird life and provides views of Native American inscriptions and petroglyphs on canyon walls—one of the region’s quieter cultural encounters.
Waterfalls, a Hike and Optional Paddle Sports
Beyond floating there’s a standout waterfall hike at Big Dominquez Creek; for paddlers wanting more, the operator brings single and double kayaks and paddleboards to add variety to the mellow rafting days.
What the day feels like
What the Two-Day Float Feels Like
This is a relaxed river trip: long floats between scenic constrictions, a single Class II rapid to punctuate the calm, shoreline camps and a riverside rhythm that alternates wildlife watching, short hikes and easy paddling. Over 39 miles you move from the Escalante boat ramp downstream to the Whitewater take‑out, with time to explore the waterfall at Big Dominquez Creek and camp along the riverbanks.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a two‑day trip covering approximately 39 miles of river; plan to be on the water and camp along the riverbanks overnight.
Depending on your location, meet the operator at the Escalante Boat Ramp (7223 650 Rd.) to save driving time, or at Pleasure Park for a group drive to the ramp; the operator handles vehicle shuttling from the Whitewater take‑out.
Expect river camping and optional paddling—the operator provides single and double kayaks and paddleboards for those who want them; bring personal gear appropriate for overnight river camping and sun/water protection.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip is two days in duration and covers roughly 39 miles of river.
Where and when do we meet?
Depending on where you are driving from, you either meet at the Escalante Boat Ramp (7223 650 Rd.) to save drive time, or at Pleasure Park and then ride with the operator to the boat ramp.
What is the difficulty level of the river?
This is a scenic, mostly easy float rated Class I and II with a single Class II rapid—suitable for rafters of varied experience levels.
Are kayaks or paddleboards available?
Yes—the operator brings single kayaks, double kayaks and paddleboards for rafters who want that option.
What are the age and group-size limits?
The trip is offered for ages 5 and up and groups are limited to up to 12 people.
Will we camp on the river?
Yes—this two‑day itinerary includes camping and relaxing along the river en route to the Whitewater take‑out.
What cultural or natural sights will we see?
Expect sandstone canyons and mesas, abundant wildlife, Native American inscriptions and petroglyphs on canyon walls, and a highlight waterfall hike at Big Dominquez Creek.