About This Trip
A Desolation Canyon 5 day rafting trip provides more time to explore the innumerable treasures this destination has to offer. Desolation Canyon is a true adventure from the start, as it begins with scenic flight into the most remote, wilderness study area in the contiguous United States.
Once you’ve landed atop the mesa above the Green River, you’ll hike down to the boats to begin one of the most sought after river trips in the country. “Deso,” as it’s affectionately called by the river community, hosts pristine archaeological sites, century-old homesteads, abundant wildlife, along with 60+ rapid sections.
The campsites in Desolation Canyon are strewn across big, beautiful beaches that offer opportunities for side hikes and exploration. Five days here will allow you plenty of time to unwind, and truly experience the magic of this dramatic canyon.
Desolation Canyon 5-day raft trips start at $1649.00.
Map
10 Things to know about Desolation Canyon
- Desolation Canyon length: 84 miles
- Desolation Canyon put-in: Sand Wash Boat Launch
- Desolation Canyon take-out: Swasey’s Boat Ramp
- Desolation Canyon rapid class: Class II and III
- Desolation Canyon’s top rapids: Three Fords and Joe Hutch
- Best for Ages: 5+
- Location: Desolation Canyon Wilderness Study Area, eastern Utah
- Notable Scenery: 5,000 foot cliffs, big beaches and cottonwoods, massive spires and hoodoos
- Notable Sites: Flat Canyon Petroglyph Panel, Rock Creek Ranch
- Average CFS Range: 5,000 – 20,000
Booking Options
Standard Rafts
18-33 feet self-bailing rafts (up to 6 guests).
Our rafts range from 18-33 feet depending on water flows during the time of the trip. Periodically we’ll tie the rafts together into a “floatilla,” and motor through calm sections to help us make the miles needed each day.
Inflatable Kayaks are brought along to enjoy at appropriate water levels.
We typically seat between 4-6 guests to each raft.
- Ages 5+
Reviews from our Guests
Posted on Google Joe OliverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kaia was a great guide. We had fun. Thank you. JpePosted on Google Dicque OliverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kaia was our sweet guide. She was very attentive. She had to deal with some old folks today who were unable to stay in rhythm. Kaia worked quite hard at keeping us moving. Thank you sweet Kaia! Get her some swag! Kindly DicquePosted on Google Elizabeth SlatteryTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great trip! Peyton way very knowledgeable and fun.Posted on Google Brian CannonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a blast on our trip up La Plata Canyon to Kennebec Pass. Our guide Alex was hilarious, knowledgeable, and a skilled driver. He was very accommodating, knew all the best places to stop, and was an expert photographer. Highly recommend!Posted on Google Jude MansellTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul took us on an amazing adventure up the La Plata canyon. Paul's commentary was top notch. The scenery was stunning & the wildflowers were absolutely beautiful. We even got to 'rescue" some stranded travelers. Thankyou for a great afternoon from grateful AussiesPosted on Google Jim HanselmanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kayla was an excellent guide! The trip was fantasticPosted on Google Tahni LeeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Family had a blast tubing. Jack was very helpful and informative. He even gave us $4 for the trolley (we didn't end up needing it).Posted on Google Tiffany HagenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved our trip down the Animas River with Sammy K. as our guide. The water is low so we couldn't avoid getting stuck, but she navigated us so it didn't happen too much.Posted on Google Anna NickensTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a blast!! Anthony was our guide and he was awesome. He was patient with us, explained everything well, and made sure we were all taking in the beauty around us too. We highly recommend Mild to Wild and will be back!!
What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789
Payments & Cancellations
Payment Plan
We start with 35% down, then 35% at 180 days, and 30% at 60 days before your trip. Please call for alternative payment arrangements.
Booking closer to your trip?
- Within 180 days: 65% due at booking
- Within 60 days: paid in full at booking
Minimum deposits apply.
Cancellation Policy
- 60+ days: Receive a refund less $200 per person unrecoverable fees.
- 45+ days: Reschedule for another trip/date, or receive Mild to Wild gift certificate less $200 per person.
- Less than 45 days, unfortunately there will be no refund. Substitutions/name changes are allowed.
- RoamRight Travel Insurance is recommended to help cover unforeseen circumstances, such as cancelled flights, sickness or medical evacuations.
- Guests needing to be evacuated from the canyon will be charged a minimum of $1,000 per person.
Fees
In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 9% for River and Land Access Fees (ie. Forest Service, BLM, City, Private Land Use).
Trip Departure Policy
We reserve the right to switch river/locations based on current conditions and a minimum number of participants. This trip requires 4 participants or paid seats to depart.
Free Courtesy Hold
We don’t want you to miss out on this trip so we’ll hold your spots, payment-free, for 24hrs while you make your final arrangements & prepare for payment.
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping & Dining
Itinerary
Map & River Log
Packing Guide
Weather & Rapids





Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
- 970-247-4789
- 745 Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532
- Get Directions
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