Desolation Canyon Trip Highlights
Desolation Canyon is the pinnacle landscape of the Great American West. Ribboning through ever-growing cliffs and ever-crumbling escarpments, this 84-mile section of the Green River is nestled in a wilderness as remote as anyone could ask for. It’s a place where wild mustangs still traipse the river banks, fossils hide in the shale, and old outlaw hideouts have remained in tact.
- Trip starts with an unbelievably scenic flight over the Green River into Desolation Canyon.
- 60+ fun and friendly Class II – III rapid sections dispersed throughout the trip.
- Towering walls deeper than the Grand Canyon in some stretches.
- Numerous off-river excursions to 19th century homesteads and ancient petroglyph panels.
- Tons of wildlife, including wild mustangs, bears, birds of prey, big horned sheep, and more.
- Big sandy beaches with shady cottonwood trees for camp each day.
- The largest continuous wilderness and research study area in the lower 48.
- A true wilderness trip with one road in and one road out.
Desolation Canyon Rafting Trips
More About This Trip
The Whitewater
Desolation is far from being short on rapids, boasting over 60 Class II sections to splash through in a raft or kayak. There are also a few exciting Class III rapids, including Steer Ridge, Cow Swim, and Three Fords.
High water season in Desolation Canyon is typically from late May to early June. The flows on this stretch of the Green River are pretty dependent on its contributing tributaries like the Yampa, White, and Duchesne Rivers.
The Sites and Camping
The longer the trip in Desolation Canyon, the longer you’ll have to explore its remarkable history and side canyons. The top sites right off the river include Rock Creek Ranch and the Flat Canyon petroglyph panel, which are usually visited on every trip.
Many of the campsites in Deso also offer opportunities to hike to old homesteads and Native American rock art. As for the campsites themselves, this canyon is lined with amazing beaches and big beautiful cottonwoods.
Legacy
Desolation Canyon was recently designated as a Wild and Scenic River in 2019, ensuring its protection for public enjoyment. We have many devoted river runners and environmental organizations to thank for making this happen after decades of dedicated work.
These 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
Green River
A quick run through Desolation Canyon with lots of time on the river!
- Youth: $1,249
- Adult: $1,369
Green River
5-day trips offer more time to relax, rejuvenate and refresh in one of most stunning canyons in America.
- Youth: $1349
- Adult: $1549
Green River
6-day trips allow ample time to hike, explore, and enjoy premier camp sites.
- Youth: $1449
- Adult: $1599
Trip Option Comparison
| Trip | Trip Features | Additional Cost Per Adult |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Day (~84 River Miles) |
|
$1,369(Base Price) |
| 5 Day (~84 River Miles) |
|
+$180 |
| 6 Day (~84 River Miles) |
|
+$230 |
We offer private trips! Click below to learn more about this option.
Rates & Dates
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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
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