Gates of Lodore Rafting Trips
The Gates of Lodore is undeniably one of the most special river trips on the continent. Throughout its 43-mile journey from Colorado to Utah, this section of the Green River unravels a rare wilderness seldom seen through the heart of Dinosaur National Monument. In the meander between billion-year-old quartzite cliffs, days in Lodore are spent completely in the present as we dive into a world of exhilarating whitewater, jaw dropping landscapes, majestic wildlife, and astounding archaeology.
- Gargantuan geologic features like the Mitten Park Fault, Steamboat Rock, and “The Gates” to Lodore Canyon.
- Exciting Class III rapids throughout the trip.
- Waterfalls, petroglyphs and wildflowers hidden along side canyon creeks.
- Forested campsites that offer more opportunities to explore.
- Human history dating back 2,000 years.
- Geologic history dating back 2 billion years.
- Wildlife galore! Big horned sheep, bald eagles, deer, fox, otters, and more.
- The spectacularly confluence with the Yampa River in Echo Park.
- The fossil filled Quarry Exhibit—an optional visit at the end of your trip.
More About This Trip
The Whitewater
Within the first 10 miles of the journey, Lodore Canyon brings on the froth. Named in 1869 by the Powell Expedition, Disaster Falls sends rafters through an exhilarating Class III drop. Soon after we paddle through Triplet Falls, Hell’s Half Mile, and plenty of other Class II – III drops and wave trains in the days to come.
High water season is typically in early June when the Flaming Gorge Reservoir has its dam release. After the Yampa River confluence, the river’s volume picks up along with the splashes to expect through Split Mountain towards the end of the trip.
The Sites & Camping
Some of the gems to explore in Lodore Canyon include the Rippling Brook waterfall, the Whispering Cave in Echo Park, and the petroglyphs up Jone Hole Creek or Island Park. Also, multiple shady camps provide lush trails and side canyons to get an extra dose of exploring in for the day.
For camp, we arrive each day on a beach beneath beautiful cottonwood trees and sculpted precipices. As the guides set up a comfortable living space (kitchen, common area, bathroom, etc.) along with 3-course dinners and filling breakfasts, you’ll have the time and space to unwind however you like. As for lunch, we usually lay out the spread near a site we’ll be exploring or before a rapid section.
Legacy
Lodore Canyon, and Dinosaur National Monument at large, is an incredibly special place given that it was nearly put underwater by two dams in the 1950s. We are incredibly thankful to the headstrong environmentalists and devoted river runners who saved this spectacular wilderness for public enjoyment. We hope to maintain their legacy for generations to come, and all who wish to float through the Gates of Lodore.
Our Gates of Lodore trips continue on the legacy of Adventure Bound River Expeditions, combined with the legendary customer service and expertise of Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep tours.
More Rafting Options
Looking for a different rafting trip in Colorado or Utah? Check out our Colorado White Water Rafting and Utah White Water Rafting pages
Trip Options
Green River
A 3 day Gates of Lodore trip offers a good amount of time in a place you’ll never forget!
- Youth: $1049
- Adult: $1149
Green River
This trip offers more time to relax, rejuvenate, and refresh in one of the US’s most stunning canyons.
- Youth: $1299
- Adult: $1299
Trip Option Comparison
| Trip | Features | Additional Cost Per Adult |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Day (~45 River Miles) |
|
$1,099(Base Price) |
| 4-Day (~45 River Miles) |
|
+$150 |
Private Trips
Gates of Lodore
We offer private trips! Click below to learn more about this option.
Gates of Lodore
Our Women’s Wellness Retreat this year is on an exclusive 5 day float through the Gates of Lodore in the heart of Dinosaur National Monument. Trip runs Sept. 8-12th.
Rates & Dates
Why Raft the Gates of Lodore with Mild to Wild?
Trip Provisions
- AEDs and comprehensive first aid kits on all trips
- Satelite communication devices
- Delicious meals and snacks provided from lunch on day 1 to lunch on the last day
- Catered 3 course dinners with appetizers, entrees, and desserts
- Dietary accommodations
- All necessary high quality custom river and camp equipment is provided
- Round trip transportation from meet location
Professional, Interpretive & Entertaining Guides
- Trip leaders average 2,000 river miles
- All guides are certified in Wilderness Advanced First Aid, Swift Water Rescue, & Food Handling.
- Dedicated company division to risk managment, guided training, and continuing guide education
Our Commitment
to You
Payments & Cancellations
Payment Options
- 1/2 down, 1/2 charged 30 days prior to trip.
- 1/3 down with remaining balance charged in thirds.
- Call for other arrangements!
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.
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).
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.
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping & Dining
Itinerary
Map & River Log
Packing Guide
Weather & Rapids
More Reading and Videos
What’s So Special About The Gates Of Lodore
How We Get Ready For Your Multi-Day Rafting Trip
12 Things You’ll Do On A Multi-Day Rafting Trip Besides Rafting
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Dinosaur National Monument Outpost
- 970-247-4789
- 2330 East US 40, Vernal, UT 84078
-
Get Directions
Trips meet at the Microtel in Vernal
Gates of Lodore White Water Rafting FAQs
When is the best time to raft the Gates of Lodore?
The best time depends on your preferred pace! For high water excitement, June is the peak month, driven by the Flaming Gorge dam’s annual spring release. If you are looking for a classic summer wilderness experience with warm sun, perfect swimming temperatures, and more technical rapids, July and August offer consistent and beautiful conditions.
When can I raft th Gates of Lodore rafting trip?
Our Gates of Lodore season typically runs from late May through September. This section of the Green River is managed by a strict National Park Service permit system, dates are limited and often booked months in advance. We offer both 3-day and 4-day expeditions that depart from our outpost in Vernal, Utah, and journey through 45 miles of spectacular canyon scenery.
What is the minimum age to raft the Gates of Lodore?
The minimum recommended age to raft the Gates of Lodore is 7 years old. During the high water peak (typically in June), the minimum age may increase to 12 years old.
What should I wear and bring on a Gates of Lodore trip?
Since these are immersive wilderness trips, you’ll need gear for the raft and the campsites! We provide all rafting equipment, group camping equipment, and delicious riverside meals. You are responsible for your personal items:
- On the River: Quick drying synthetic layers, a sun protective hat, and secure river sandals with a heel strap (no flip-flops or crocs). In the early season (May/June), a wetsuit is highly recommended on the Yampa River.
- At Camp: Comfortable camp shoes, a headlamp, and warm clothing layers for cool desert nights. You can bring your own tent, sleeping pad and sleeping bag, or rent from us.
For a comprehensive packing list visit our multi day rafting trip planning page.
Is white water rafting through the Gates of Lodore 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 in Lodore Canyon.
Want more information about our Gates of Lodore Trips?
Join our Lodore Canyon email list, and we’ll send you all the details you need to start planning your expedition down the Green River!
