Desolation Canyon Rafting 5 Day Trip

Green River, Utah

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.

Desolation Canyon Quick Facts

What's So Special About Desolation Canyon?

Overview

Season

April – September

Restrictions

Oar Raft : Ages 5+ and at least 50 lbs

Class of Rapids

II – III

Boat Options

Standard Raft - Up to 6 guests

Book Your Trip

5 day Desolation Canyon Rafting Trip

Trip Planning

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+

Adult (16+)

$1749

Youth (5-15)

$1649

Military/
Senior (65+)

$1649

Reviews from our Guests

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   cynthia forbis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had an awesome experience on a jeep ride through La Plata Canyon with Jared. He was knowledgeable and a skilled driver, we were in good hands. The scenery was gorgeous and we enjoyed seeing this beautiful place. Thanks Jared!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tim Swope 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tim was an awesome guide……with all of his knowledge and stories and enthusiasm for the Colorado mountains it made for a great trip!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   vicki fathallah 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tim was amazing. Very informative and very pleasant tour guide. I would recommend him for your next tour. I enjoyed it very much
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Claudia Hartley 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our guide Jared was knowledgeable and personable.  It was a great experience.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alberto Gonzalez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did the Silverton Jeep Tour Package on 9/28/26 and it was a once in a lifetime experience. Our guide, Tim, took us to picturesque landscapes while giving us knowledge of the history surrounding the mountains of Silverton, all while it was raining I should say. Plus we were able to see and experience first hand snow falling at a higher altitude. We were given ample time to shop around town before departing on the train back to Durango. Only minor thing I would critique was that the roof cover, for the 6 seats in back, was not 99.9% waterproof because their were water drops falling from the cover while it was raining but it was no biggie for us and part of the adventure to be honest (we were given waterproof blankets to cover our bodies from the beginning). PLEASE BRING LAYERS AS MENTIONED ON THEIR WEBSITE (YOU'RE GOING TO NEED THEM)!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Holly Gibson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our tour to Mesa Verde with Ann as our guide was truly amazing! She was so knowledgeable, answered questions and gave us so much to think about regarding Mesa Verde. The lunch provided was filling and there were plenty of refreshments offered throughout the day. I highly recommend the full day tour! Visiting Cliff Palace is so worth it!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sam Lyons 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing! We had the best time. Our guide Dylan made us feel very safe, while taking us through fun rapids.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Josh Jessop 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our tour guide Ann made this already beautiful tour absolutely incredible! We were so grateful to spend the day with her. She was a wealth of enthusiasm and knowledge. Overall a great day with great people.

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.