MOAB RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Run the Colorado: A Full-Day Whitewater Circuit from Moab with a Hot Lunch
A full-day Colorado River rafting trip that navigates famous rapids, includes swimming time and a choice of Beach or Upgraded Hot Lunch — this guide distills the route, timing, and who it suits.
Run the Colorado: A Full-Day Whitewater Circuit from Moab with a Hot Lunch.
Adventure brief
Run the Colorado: A Full-Day Whitewater Circuit from Moab with a Hot Lunch
Set out from Moab for a full-day Colorado River whitewater run that threads 14 river miles of canyon corridor, drops you through named rapids including Onion Creek and the iconic White’s Rapid, and pauses for a beach lunch and swims along the way.
In the arid, rugged landscape of Moab, Utah, a different kind of adventure awaits: a high-octane ride down the Colorado River. Canyonlands by Night and Day offers a full-day whitewater rafting trip that immerses you in the raw power and scenic grandeur of this iconic river corridor. As dawn breaks over the red rock cliffs, guides prepare you for an adrenaline-pumping journey through some of the most thrilling rapids in the region, including Onion Creek and the legendary White’s Rapid.
The Colorado River, carved over millions of years through sandstone courts and rugged canyon walls, presents an ever-changing palette of striking geology and aquatic challenge. During the trip, rafters are treated to sweeping views of layered rock formations, with ocean-like curves and towering buttes framing the river. Swimmers are common during calmer stretches, and the adventure is perfectly suited for families and groups eager to share a day of excitement.
After braving the rapids, a hearty hot lunch serves as a welcome break amidst the wilderness—fueling adventurers for the trip back. Canyonlands by Night and Day stands out as a premier outfitter in Moab, known for balancing safety and fun, and providing expert guides who bring the river alive with local knowledge. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a scenic waterway tour, their full-day rafting trip combines all the elements of Utah’s stunning landscape with the thrill of whitewater.
This experience is more than a ride; it’s a chance to get immersed in the natural forces that shaped the region, making it a must-try for outdoor lovers passing through Moab. Ready to get your pulse racing and experience Utah’s wild side? Canyonlands by Night and Day offers unforgettable memories along the Colorado’s whitewater stage—don't miss it.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
The trip follows the Colorado River through named rapids and beach lunch stops over a roughly 14-mile stretch.
Launch / Put-in
After a scenic drive up the river corridor the raft is launched onto a popular stretch of the Colorado River and the trip begins.
Rapids Sequence
You’ll run a series of rapids including Onion Creek, Cloudburst and Ida Gulch, with opportunities to swim in calmer sections between waves.
Beach Lunch
The group stops at a beach for lunch; guests may choose between a Beach Lunch or the Upgraded Hot Lunch option.
Final Run — White’s Rapid
After lunch the trip runs the famous White’s Rapid, a highlight of the day and a focal point for post-lunch rafting fun.
This is a full-day river trip with active rafting and swimming opportunities; operators set age categories (youth ages 5–15, adults 16 and older) and may apply participant restrictions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
White’s Rapid, Onion Creek and Other Classic Drops
The route includes several named rapids—Onion Creek, Cloudburst, Ida Gulch—and culminates in the famous White’s Rapid, offering the adrenaline moments that define this full-day run.
Fourteen Miles of Canyon Corridor
The full-day trip covers roughly 14 river miles as you travel up the Colorado River corridor, alternating quick whitewater sections with calmer stretches and scenic beach stops.
Beach Lunch or an Upgraded Hot Lunch
The excursion includes a lunch option, with the operator offering a Beach Lunch or an Upgraded Hot Lunch (Upgraded Hot Lunch rates: Adult 16+ $143; Youth 5–15 $117).
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
A morning drive up the river corridor delivers you to the put-in for a day that alternates runnable rapids—including White’s Rapid—with stretches for swimming and a beach lunch; expect a full day on the water with lively on-raft moments and relaxed shoreline breaks.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full-day trip covers about 14 river miles; departures occur between approximately 8:15 A.M. and 9:00 A.M., with a return to the departure point around 4:00–4:30 P.M.
Choose between a Beach Lunch or the Upgraded Hot Lunch; Upgraded Hot Lunch rates are listed at Adult (16 and older) $143 and Youth (ages 5–15) $117.
The trip meets in Moab, Utah, and is run by the local operator offering this Colorado River full-day rafting experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
This is a full-day trip that covers approximately 14 river miles and generally departs between 8:15–9:00 A.M., returning around 4:00–4:30 P.M.
Where do we meet?
The meeting location for the tour is Moab, Utah.
What are the age categories and pricing for the upgraded hot lunch?
Upgraded Hot Lunch rates are Adult (16 and older) $143 and Youth (ages 5–15) $117.
Which rapids will we run?
The trip runs named rapids including Onion Creek, Cloudburst, Ida Gulch and the well-known White’s Rapid.
Is there time to swim and does the trip include a lunch stop?
Yes — the itinerary includes time to relax and swim and features a beach lunch stop, with an option to upgrade to a hot lunch.
Who operates this trip?
The trip is operated by Canyonlands by Night and Day out of Moab, Utah.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:05:30.616Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.