Gates of Lodore Trip Highlights
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 ever see. 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.
Gates of Lodore Rafting – Raft Dinosaur National Monument
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.
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: $999
- Adult: $1099
Green River
This trip offers more time to relax, rejuvenate, and refresh in one of the US’s most stunning canyons.
- Youth: $1149
- Adult: $1249
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
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What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789
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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