Cataract Canyon Rafting

Canyonlands National Park Utah

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.

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.

Looking for something a little bit milder? Check out all Moab white water rafting trips, or if you’re looking to raft in other parts of the state visit our Utah white water rafting page.

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.

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Trip Options

Mild to Wild offers 5 different multi-day options to raft Cataract Canyon ranging from 2-6 days. Each trip covers the same distance on the river but features different hikes and activity options.
Trip Trip Features Additional Cost Per Adult
2-Day (~95 River Miles)
  • No Hikes
  • 4 meals
  • 1.5 Days on the river
  • 1 night camping
  • Little time to relax and explore at camp
  • Motor Raft
$989
(Base Price)
3-Day (~95 River Miles)
  • 1 short hike
  • 7 meals
  • 2.5 Days on the river
  • 2 night camping
  • Small amount of time to relax & explore at camp
  • Motor Raft
+$260
4-Day (~95 River Miles)
  • 1 short hike, 1 longer hike
  • 10 meals
  • 3.5 Days on the river
  • 3 nights camping
  • More time to relax & explore at camp
  • Motor Raft
  • Paddle raft for rapids sections (optional)
+$510
5-Day (~95 River Miles)
  • 3-5 hikes
  • 13 meals
  • 4.5 Days on the river
  • 4 nights camping
  • Significant time to relax & explore at camp
  • Motor Raft
  • Paddle raft for rapids sections (optional)
  • Kayaks and paddle boards for calm sections
+$610
6-Day (~95 River Miles)
  • 3-6 hikes
  • 16 meals
  • 5.5 Days on the river
  • 5 nights camping
  • The most time for relaxing & exploring at camp
  • Most amount of time in camp & on the river
  • Motor Raft
  • Paddle raft rapids sections (optional)
  • Kayaks and paddle boards for calm sections
+$790

Specialty Trips

Rates & Dates

Why Raft Cataract Canyon with Mild to Wild?

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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
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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
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Our Commitment
to You

For over 30 years, Mild to Wild has operated as a family-owned and managed business. We are committed to providing exceptional guest service and crafting memorable experiences. We are proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not absolutely delighted with our guides and equipment, your trip is free.

Reviews from our Guests

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Ken Savastano profile picture
Ken Savastano
13 days ago
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2 friends and I took the 5 day Cataract Canyon white water trip with Jackson and Jeff (5 others joined us after the 1st day). It was an amazing experience and our guides were fantastic. Their knowledge of the issues facing the area, the history and the geography was very impressive. They made this trip unforgettable. The only complaint I have is not related to the trip itself... FIX THE A/C ON THE SHUTTLE RETURNING AT THE END OF THE TRIP!!
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Matt Sawyer profile picture
Matt Sawyer
14 days ago
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I honestly couldn’t have imagined a better experience than our 4-day whitewater rafting adventure through Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River in Moab, Utah. The first and last days were mostly scenic, giving us plenty of time to take in the incredible beauty of the canyon, while Days 2 and 3 were absolutely packed with adventure as we tackled some incredible rapids and hikes along the way! The combination of adrenaline, scenery, and being completely immersed in the canyon was unforgettable. But what made this trip truly special were our guides, Jackson and Jeff. These guys were phenomenal! Not only were they incredibly knowledgeable and skilled on the river, but they somehow managed to prepare restaurant-quality meals every day in the middle of the canyon. After a full day on the river, sitting down to an amazing meal was something we looked forward to every evening. And then came the nights… Sleeping underneath the stars in Cataract Canyon was an experience I'll never forget. With virtually no light pollution, the night sky was absolutely incredible. We saw thousands of stars, hundreds of satellites, Starlink passing overhead, the Milky Way in incredible detail, and meteor showers unlike anything I've ever seen. Lying there in the canyon, looking straight up at that sky, was surreal 🙂 We weren't just rafting. We were camping, exploring, hearing stories about some of the epic adventures and history of Cataract Canyon, and laughing around camp while Jackson and Jeff kept the nights filled with hilarious stories and jokes. The entire trip felt like the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, incredible scenery, great food, and unforgettable memories. A huge shoutout to Jackson and Jeff for making the experience what it was. Their professionalism, knowledge, cooking skills, humor, and genuine passion for the river made an already incredible trip even better. If you're considering a multi-day rafting trip through Cataract Canyon, DO IT. I couldn't have imagined a better time. 10/10 without hesitation. Five stars all day long!
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Gregory Arroyo profile picture
Gregory Arroyo
16 days ago
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+2
What an absolutely incredible 4-day trip through Cataract Canyon! Jackson and Jeff are truly GOAT guides who made the whole experience unforgettable. If you are on the fence about booking this trip, don't hesitate, just do it!
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George Garcia profile picture
George Garcia
17 days ago
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Very organized company. My friends and I had an amazing 4 day rafting camping excursion through cataract canyon. Our guides, Jackson and Jeff, were stellar. Knowledgeable and entertaining. We felt safe and always had an awesome time. Will definitely plan again.
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Nikki Kozycki profile picture
Nikki Kozycki
45 days ago
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We just returned yesterday from a 3 day rafting trip through Cataract Canyon. I have no words to describe how amazing this trip was and I attribute every memory to the team of guides and Mild to Wild crew that made it possible. They do not take shortcuts - not with effort, not with safety, and not with food! The guides made the difference in this trip, and we are extremely grateful for their company and guidance over the past 3 days. We traveled with two kids just barely breaking the minimum age requirement and they had so much fun and were extremely well taken care of by the team. Special shout out to Brother Ben and Alex. Your energy and spirit is everything! We will be back!
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Ryan Barry profile picture
Ryan Barry
46 days ago
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Great trip through cataract canyon. Jeff, Ben, Ben, Alex, and Louis were fantastic. Food and willingness to help was outstanding. Would highly recommend.
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Randi Christopherson profile picture
Randi Christopherson
66 days ago
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Had a blast on the 5 day Cataract Canyon rafting trip! So much fun. Great time on the river and great meals every day! Jackson White and Jeff Bolton were amazing guides. Enjoyed their company and knowledge. Highly recommend this trip and these two guides!
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TIM NEIN profile picture
TIM NEIN
66 days ago
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ EPIC Cataract Canyon Experience — MTW Went Above & Beyond! We just returned home from a 5‑day MTW rafting adventure on Cataract Canyon, and I can confidently say it became one of the most memorable trips we’ve ever taken — thanks entirely to the MTW team. We originally booked a 3‑day full‑paddle trip on the Salt River for fall 2026. Molly communicated early and clearly that the Salt River is highly dependent on winter snowpack and spring runoff, and that there was a real possibility the river wouldn’t have enough flow. She told us they’d know more in March and that we’d have the option to cancel for a refund or re‑route to Cataract Canyon. Sure enough, the Salt River was too low, and we chose to re‑route. Molly encouraged us to consider the 5‑day Cataract Canyon trip — and we’re so glad we listened. At the orientation meeting the night before launch, we learned our trip would be on two large supply boats rather than the full paddle experience we had originally planned. We were disappointed, and the guides immediately took our concerns seriously. They got Molly on the phone, and she listened — really listened — to what we were hoping for. She explained the differences between the Salt and Cataract Canyon and why a full paddle on the long flatwater stretch would be exhausting and not enjoyable. Still, she promised to see what they could do. The next morning at the put‑in, we were blown away. Jeff and Jackson greeted us with fully loaded supply boats — and a paddle raft ready to go. Jeff asked if we still wanted a paddle option (absolutely!) and told us they were even jet‑boating another guide to meet us at camp above the first rapids so we could have the experience we hoped for. This level of service was far beyond anything we expected. Molly was right: the first 50 miles are flat, and we would have been miserable trying to paddle that stretch. Instead, we relaxed, took in the stunning scenery, and enjoyed the comfort of motor assist until the canyon tightened and the rapids began. Once we hit the whitewater, the trip became everything we dreamed of. Jeff, Jackson, and our additional guide Nickol were phenomenal — professional, fun, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the river and its geology. Their stories, expertise, and leadership made the trip first‑class from start to finish. The meals were genuinely 5‑star, the camps were beautiful, and the entire experience felt dialed‑in and effortless. They even helped me mount a solar panel to the raft during the day so I could charge batteries for a CPAP machine — a small detail that meant a lot. I would highly recommend MTW — and specifically Jeff, Jackson, and Nickol — to anyone wanting to create memories that will last a lifetime. And a special thank‑you to Molly: you listened, you cared, and you delivered. You and your team went far beyond the call for us, and we appreciate you more than you know.
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Ying Gao profile picture
Ying Gao
67 days ago
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We had an amazing time on the 5-day Cataract trip! We ran a day late because we had to recover from travel, but the office was great with booking us a jetboat to catch up with our trip on day 2. Our guides Jeff and Jackson were super helpful, entertaining, and prepared. They chatted about geology, guided us to the Dollhouse, and even made us a surprise frosted 3 tiered cake on the river since we had just gotten married(!!). Food was great, 2x steak. The canyon was beautiful and the stargazing at night was magnificent. Hope to come back for another trip.
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Adam Blaine profile picture
Adam Blaine
70 days ago
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Jackson and Josie were outstanding guides. Starting with booking, Mild to Wild offered a unique experience that met our groups needs. As soon as we arrived in Moab they were accommodating with our packing and provided everything we needed prior to departure. On the river they were thorough and professional. The rapids through cataract canyon were top notch. Thanks again for everything. I would highly recommend!

What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789

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

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Cataract Canyon White Water Rafting FAQ

When is the best time to raft in Cataract Canyon?

The best time to raft Cataract Canyon depends on the level of adventure you’re after! For those seeking world class thrills and massive waves, May and June are the peak months as the spring runoff from the Rockies creates legendary Class IV and V rapids. If you prefer a more moderate adventure with warmer water perfect for swimming, July through September offers defined Class III & IV big drop rapids. Shoulder season trips in March, April, and October allow you to experience the river without the heat offering ideal temperatures for exploring hidden slot canyons and ancient ruins along your way.

Our Cataract Canyon rafting season typically runs from March through October. 

Due to the seasonal changes of the rapids in Cataract Canyon, the minimum age varies by water level. During standard flows (typically July through October), the minimum age is 10 years old. During the high-water peak in May and June, the minimum age increases to 14 years old due to more intense rapid sequences.

Since you’ll be on a multi-day expedition in a remote canyon environment, being prepared for shifting temperatures is essential! We recommend:

  • Clothing: Quick-drying layers such as swimwear, board shorts, and synthetic sun shirts (rash guards). For camp, bring comfortable, lightweight layers for summer months or warm base layers and a beanie for spring and fall trips. Avoid cotton on the river!
  • Footwear: Sturdy water shoes with a secure heel strap (like Chacos or Tevas) are required for the raft and side canyon hikes. Bring a pair of dry sneakers or light hikers for around camp.
  • Essentials: A wide-brimmed sun hat with a chin strap, polarized sunglasses with a retention strap (like Chums), and plenty of waterproof sunscreen.
  • 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. 

You can find a detailed list of what to wear and bring here.

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 5,000 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.

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Shot from in the boat of kids getting splashed through a rapid in Cataract Canyon
NPS - Authorized Concessioner - Mild to Wild