Green River White Water Rafting Trips
From snowy Wyoming peaks to Utah’s slick rock canyons, the Green River takes one of the most diverse journeys out of any tributary in the United States. Some of the best sections to explore the Green River include the lush chasms of Gates of Lodore in Dinosaur National Monument, and expansive wilderness of Desolation Canyon.
Green River
Located deep within the Tavaputs Plateau, Desolation Canyon is one of the most remote wilderness areas in Utah. Steep canyon walls with towering spires and abundant arches.
Green River
A magnificent towering canyon marks the start of the trip at the “Gates of Lodore” and follows one of the most beautiful stretches of river anywhere. Camp on big sandy beaches, revel at red quartzite cliffs, and enjoy the thrills of 30+ class II & III rapids on a 3 or 4 day adventure.
About Green River Rafting
Where is the Green River?
The Green River begins in western Wyoming, trickling down from the Wind River Mountains, a wondrously jagged range of the Rockies. After Flaming Gorge Reservoir, it flows into Utah and quickly turns east into Colorado, before meandering west again into Utah.
The Green River ends in Canyonlands National Park at its confluence with the Colorado River. From the headwaters in Wyoming to the confluence in Utah, the Green River is 730 miles long.
What are the Green River’s Rafting Sections?
The Green River has many rafting sections! The most popular stretches include:
- Red Canyon (Northern Utah)
- Gates of Lodore (Colorado and Utah)
- Desolation Canyon (Utah)
- Labyrinth Canyon & Stillwater Canyon (Utah)
How long does it take to raft the Green River?
To raft the Green River from start to finish would take weeks. Luckily there are great sections to raft if you don’t have all the time in the world.
- Gates of Lodore commercial rafting trips last 3-5 days.
- Desolation Canyon commercial rafting trips last 4-6 days.
- Labyrinth Canyon commercial trips last 4-5 days.
What is the Average CFS on the Green River?
The Green River’s CFS changes dramatically as tributaries add and diversion dams take, keeping the flows ever-changing from canyon to canyon. Here are the typically low and high ranges during rafting season (spring to fall):
- Release from Flaming Gorge Reservoir: Average is around 2,000 CFS
- Dinosaur National Monument: Average range is between 7,000 and 25,000 CFS.
- Desolation Canyon: Average range is between 5,000 and 20,000 CFS
- Labyrinth Canyon: Average range is between 5,000 and 30,000 CFS
What are the Class of Rapids on the Green River?
Since the Green River is 730 miles long, it’s better to break up its rapids by canyons. Throughout the Green River’s journey to the Colorado River, there are many calm flat water sections, with mostly class II rapids when they do occur.
The largest rapids on the Green River are in Lodore Canyon with class III and IV rapids.
The canyon with the most rapids on the Green River is in Desolation Canyon, with over 60 class II rapids, and a few class III.
What sections of the Green River require a Permit to Raft?
- Gates of Lodore
- Desolation Canyon
- Labyrinth Canyon
- Stillwater Canyon
What sections of the Green River don’t require a Permit to Raft?
- 30 miles below Flaming Gorge Reservoir (Wyoming to Colorado state line)
- Browns Canyon before Dinosaur National Monument (Colorado)
- Uintah Basin after Dinosaur National Monument (Utah)
- Jensen to Ouray before Desolation Canyon (Utah)
Photos
History
Gates of Lodore Quick Facts
Desolation Canyon Quick Facts
Maps
Gates of Lodore
Desolation Canyon
Map of Green River in Colorado Plateau River System
Green River White Water Rafting FAQs
When is the best time to raft the Green River?
The best time depends on which canyon you choose! For the Gates of Lodore, June is the peak for high-water thrills due to scheduled dam releases. If you’re heading to Desolation Canyon, June through August is spectacular; June offers the most exciting rapids, while July and August provide warmer swimming temperatures and the best beach camping for families.
When can I raft the Green River?
Our Green River season typically runs from May through September. Because sections like the Gates of Lodore and Desolation Canyon are managed by a strict federal permit system, these 3 to 6-day expeditions often book up months in advance. We recommend booking early to secure your spot in these remote wilderness areas.
What is the minimum age to raft the Green River?
Minimum ages are based on the specific canyon and current water levels:
- Desolation Canyon (Class II-III): Depending on water levels the minimum age to raft is 5 to 7 years old (minimum 35-50 lbs).
- Gates of Lodore (Class III-IV): 7 years old during standard flows, but may increase to 12+ during the high-water flows in June.
What should I wear and bring on a Green River multi-day trip?
For these immersive wilderness journeys, you need gear for both the river and the canyon campsites. We provide all rafting equipment, group camping equipment, and deliscious meals. You are responsible for personal items:
- On the River: Quick-drying synthetic layers (avoid cotton!), secure river sandals with a heel strap, and a wide-brimmed sun hat.
- At Camp: Comfortable shoes for hiking to ancient petroglyphs, a headlamp, and layers for cool desert nights. You can bring your own camping gear including a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad or rent them from us.
For a comprehensive packing list visit our multi day rafting trip planning page.
Is white water rafting on the Green River safe?
White water rafting is an inherently dangerous activity with risks that cannot be entirely eliminated. As a result, we require all guests to sign a liability waiver and assumption of risk before departing. However, your experience is our number one priority. To minimize risk in this rugged environment, our guide training exceeds state requirements and trip leaders average over 2,000 river miles of experience. Our guides are certified in CPR and First Aid, with many holding advanced Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) certifications. We utilize quality and well maintained equipment, including custom designed rafts, U.S. Coast Guard approved Type V personal flotation devices, and helmets. Expeditions are equipped with satellite communication, comprehensive first aid kits, and an AED to ensure we are prepared for the remote nature of the Green River.