Yampa River Rafting Trips
The Yampa River Canyon is one of the rarest wildernesses left to explore in the United States. It is the only tributary left in the Colorado River Basin to flow freely without a dam. This means the Yampa has been left to its natural devices since its formation over 30 million years ago. Throughout the 72 mile journey, this truly wild river reveals unbelievable scenery, abundant wildlife, thrilling rapids, and history-filled alcoves.
- The last major, free flowing tributary in the Colorado River System.
- Thrilling Class III – IV rapids that change year after year.
- Serene, slickrock cliffs that make for dramatic alcoves and overhangs.
- Lush campsites filled with trees, wildflowers, and berry bushes.
- Large caves filled with significant archeological sites.
- The grand scenery of the Green River confluence in Echo Park.
- A true wilderness that reveals what riparian environments were like before dams. A rarity in today’s modern world.
More About Rafting the Yampa River
The Whitewater
The Yampa comes with fun rapid sections that are mostly Class II-III, including “Teepee Rapid” early in the trip, and “5 Springs” and “Big Joe” usually the second day. The biggest rapid on the Yampa River is a Class IV called “Warm Springs” which was formed in the 1960s after a huge landslide. After the Green River confluence, long splashy sections emerge through Split Mountain before the trip’s end.
Because the Yampa River is free flowing, its rafting season is usually brief. The peak flows can be unpredictable, but usually land somewhere in late May to early June. Water levels also fluctuate daily on the Yampa, so you never really know the exact CFS you’re going to get on a trip.
The Sites & Camping
There are multiple opportunities to hike along the Yampa River, including the panoramic views from Harding Hole, the archeological treasure trove at Mantle’s Cave, and in the geologic galleries of Echo Park. Some campsites will have opportunities to explore side canyons, but mostly once you’re on the Green River portion of the trip.
The campsites along the Yampa are filled with wildflowers and shady cottonwoods. Some sites are set in a maze of hackberry bushes, while others are strewn across lush beaches. Each day your guides will set up a comfortable living space (kitchen, common area, bathroom, etc.) and whip up 3-course dinners and filling breakfasts. As for lunch, you’ll usually enjoy it on a scenic beach in between off-river excursions.
Legacy
The Yampa River is the birthplace of environmentalism. Starting in the 1950’s, two proposed dams were set to destroy Dinosaur National Monument forever. But due to the tenacity of the Hatch family (the founders of commercial river rafting) and David Bower from the Sierra Club, the dam projects were defeated and the movement for wilderness preservation was born. We are forever grateful to those who have continued to keep the Yampa wild and the legacy of Dinosaur National Monument alive.
Our Yampa River 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
Dinosaur National Monument
A 4-day trip offers a good amount of time in a place you’ll never forget!
- Youth: $1299
- Adult: $1399
Dinosaur National Monument
A 5-day trip offers more time to relax, rejuvenate, and refresh in one of the US’s most stunning canyons.
- Youth: $1599
- Adult: $1499
Trip Option Comparison
| Trip | Features | Additional Cost Per Adult |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Day (~72 River Miles) |
|
$1,399 (Base Price) |
| 5 Day (~72 River Miles) |
|
+$200 |
Private Trips
Yampa River
We offer private trips! Click below to learn more about this option.
Rates & Dates
Why Raft the Yampa River 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
- Inflatable kayaks and paddle boards to diversify your river experience
- 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 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
More Reading and Videos
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
Yampa RiverWhite Water Rafting FAQs
When is the best time to raft the Yampa River?
Any time during our brief season is a fantastic time to experience the Yampa, but the river’s character shifts as the summer progresses! For high-water thrills with continuous rolling waves, late May and early June is the peak of the natural snowmelt runoff. As we move into late June and July, the river forms technical Class II, III, & IV rapids.
When can I book a Yampa River rafting trip?
Our Yampa season typically runs from mid-May through early July. Due to the river’s wild nature and the strict National Park Service permit system, these 4-day and 5-day expeditions often book up a year in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your spot on one of the few truly untamed river journeys left in the American West.
What is the minimum age to raft the Yampa River?
The minimum age to raft the Yampa River is 7 years old. However, during peak flows (typically in early June), the minimum age may increase to 12 or 14 years old. These requirements help ensure every guest is physically prepared for the remote canyon environment and the spirited Class III-IV rapids.
What should I wear and bring on a Yampa multi-day trip?
Since Yampa is a remote wilderness expedition, you’ll need to pack 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 on the Yampa 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 Yampa River in Dinosaur National Monumnent.
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