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.
More About Rafting Desolation Canyon
The WhitewaterÂ
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. Â
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.Â
Looking for a shorter river rafting experience? Check out our Moab white water rafting page, or if you’re looking for more white water rafting trips in Utah, visit our Utah White Water Rafting page.
The Sites and CampingÂ
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.Â
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.Â
LegacyÂ
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.Â
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: $1,399
- Adult: $1,499
Green River
5-day trips offer more time to relax, rejuvenate and refresh in one of most stunning canyons in America.
- Youth: $1649
- Adult: $1749
Green River
6-day trips allow ample time to hike, explore, and enjoy premier camp sites.
- Youth: $1799
- Adult: $1899
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
Why Raft Desolation 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
- 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 management, 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 Desolation Canyon?
5 Unexpected Things You’ll Find On A Multi-Day Raft Trip
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
- 970-247-4789
- 745 Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532
- Get Directions
Desolation Canyon White Water Rafting
When is the best time to raft in Desolation Canyon?
The best time to raft Desolation Canyon depends on the type of wilderness experience you’re looking for! For those seeking the most excitement, late May and June are ideal as the spring runoff from the Yampa and Green River tributaries creates larger Class III wave trains. If you’re looking for the quintessential family vacation with hot desert days and warm water perfect for frequent swimming, July and August are fantastic. For those who prefer cooler hiking temperatures and a quieter canyon for viewing the changing colors of the cottonwood trees, the late season in September offers a scenic retreat.
When can I raft the Green River through Desolation Canyon?
Our Desolation Canyon rafting season typically runs from May through September. Whether you want to maximize your time at ancient Fremont petroglyphs or enjoy long, sunny days on the river’s massive sandbar beaches, we have departures scheduled throughout the late spring and summer.
What is the minimum age to raft in Desolation Canyon?
Desolation Canyon is widely considered one of the best family rafting trips in the West due to its approachable rapids and big beaches. The minimum age for our Desolation Canyon trips is 5 years old (and at least 50 lbs). This age limit remains consistent throughout our season, making this location an excellent choice for families with younger children looking to experience a true multi-day wilderness adventure.
What should I wear and bring on my Desolation Canyon rafting trip?
Preparation is key for a multi-day trip in the high desert, where temperatures can shift quickly! We recommend:
- Clothing: Quick drying synthetic layers, such as swimsuits, board shorts, and long-sleeve sun shirts (rash guards) to protect against the desert sun. Avoid cotton on the river as it keeps you cold when wet!
- Footwear: Secure water shoes or river sandals with a heel strap (like Chacos or Tevas). Bring a pair of lightweight hikers or sneakers for exploring homesteads and petroglyph sites at camp.
- Essentials: A wide brimmed sun hat, polarized sunglasses with a retention strap (like Chums), waterproof sunscreen, and bug spray (especially for late summer).
- Gear: We provide waterproof bags and all camping equipment besides personal camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad). However, personal camping equipment is available for rent if you do not have your own. Bring a headlamp and a refillable water bottle.Â
You can find a detailed list of what to wear and bring here.
Is white water rafting in Desolation Canyon 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 the canyon, 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 Canyonlands National Park.
Want more information about our Desolation Canyon trips?
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