Cataract Canyon Rafting Trip Highlights
Cataract Canyon is a slice of desert paradise where all things become colossal. In a crimson crevice 2,000 feet in the Earth, rare artifacts, dramatically sculpted sandstone, and rip roaring rapids wait to be discovered throughout the 96 mile journey. This is merely the start of what’s waiting in the extraordinary reaches of Canyonlands National Park.
- Utah’s biggest whitewater run by career river guides.
- Pristine Native American archaeological sites.
- The jaw dropping Green River confluence.
- Hikes to the canyon rim with 360° views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands.
- Rare views of Dead Horse State Park and the Dolls House.
- Camping in a Dark Sky Park— the best stargazing you could ever ask for.
- Big sandy beaches where you’ll camp each night.
- Delicious and freshly prepared meals by your river guides.
- A true, backcountry experience in Canyonlands National Park.
Cataract Canyon Rafting – Big Rapids on the Colorado River Near Moab, UT
More About This Trip
The Whitewater
Between the glossy flat water sections that bookend Cataract Canyon, there are 29 world class rapids in a single 15-mile stretch. Most are larger than your usual Class III and IVs, with a few Class V during the high water season in spring.
From May through June, Cataract Canyon boasts the biggest whitewater in the West. This isn’t to say the rapids aren’t as powerful later in the season, they just become much more technical as massive boulders emerge from the bedrock.
The Sites & Camping
Depending on the length of your trip, you’ll have opportunities to hike to overlooks, explore ancient ruins and fields of glittering petrified wood, lounge in gorgeous grottos, and rendezvous up side canyons. The longer the trip, the more time you’ll have to explore these hidden treasures.
Each day, camp is made on silky beaches with unbelievable views, both of the canyon and the cosmos. There, you’ll enjoy a comfortable camp set up (kitchen, common area, bathroom, etc.) along with 3-course dinners and filling breakfasts. Lunch each day is usually on the boat or near a site we’ll explore.
*All Cataract Canyon trips are motored to make the 96-mile journey from the Potash put-in to the North Wash take-out at Lake Powell.
The landscape of Cataract Canyon was so inspiring to Mild to Wild’s founders, Alex and Molly Mickel, they married there in 1996! Our Cataract Canyon 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.
Trip Options
Colorado River
A 2-day trip can expect long days on the water with limited time to stop. Call our office to book.
- Youth: $1299
- Adult: $1349
Colorado River
A 3-day trip offers a good amount of time in a place you’ll never forget!
- Youth: $1299
- Adult: $1349
Colorado River
A 4-day trip offers more time to relax, rejuvenate, and refresh in one of the US’s most stunning canyons.
- Youth: $1499
- Adult: $1599
Colorado River
A 5-day trip offers more time each day to explore side hikes, find fossils and petroglyphs, and relax!
- Youth: $1599
- Adult: $1799
Colorado River
A 6-day trip offers the most time each day to explore side hikes, find fossils and petroglyphs, and relax!
- Youth: $1899
- Adult: $1949
Trip Option Comparison
| Trip | Trip Features | Additional Cost Per Adult |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Day (~95 River Miles) |
|
$999 (Base Price) |
| 3-Day (~95 River Miles) |
|
+$100 |
| 4-Day (~95 River Miles) |
|
+$430 |
| 5-Day (~95 River Miles) |
|
+$600 |
| 6-Day (~95 River Miles) |
|
+$750 |
Specialty Trips
Cataract Canyon
We offer private trips! Click below to learn more about this option.
Cataract Canyon
Join us for an unforgettable 4-day journey through the heart of Canyonlands National Park, combining the adrenaline of whitewater rafting with the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Perseid Meteor Shower. August 11 – 14, 2025.
Rates & Dates
Why Raft Cataract Canyon 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 deserts
- Dietary accommodations
- High quality custom river and camp equipment
- Round trip transportation from meet location
Professional, Interpretive & Entertaining Guides
- Trip leaders average 5,000 river miles
- Trip leaders are 5th year guides
- All guide certified in CPR, First Aid and Food Handling
- Most guides certified in Swift Water Rescue, and Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness First Responder or EMT
- 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.
Gallery
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping & Dining
Itinerary
Map & River Log
Packing Guide
Weather & Rapids
Want more information about our Cataract Canyon trips?
Join our Cataract Canyon email list, and we’ll send you all the Cat-specific details you need!
