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Overview:
This trip in Canyonlands National Park with Grand Canyon size rapids like Little Niagara, Satan's Gut and The Big Drop is still a legend. It has side hikes through 300 million years of geologic history, sculpted sandstone spires and ancient Anasazi rock art. The trip begins on the still waters of Meander Canyon above the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers near Moab, Utah and offers a nice combination of quiet floating, incredible hiking and fast moving whitewater.
You enter Cataract Canyon when these two rivers join creating a 14 mile stretch of roiling river sporting some of the biggest rapids in North America. During the spring high water conditions, for safety sake, most outfitters will run the larger motorized rafts. They are operated by a quiet outboard motor. As the water drops and as conditions permit, more leisurely rowing trips become available and in July and August there is the option for paddle boats and inflatable kayaks. Over its 96 miles course, the rapids are rated Class III-IV+, depending on water levels. Trips start in Moab and Green River, UT and end near Hite Marina, UT on upper Lake Powell.
Cataract Canyon offers both motorized and oar powered trips. The main difference is the trip length with motor trips taking 3-4 days and oar powered trips 5-6 days depending on the time of year and water levels in the river. The season runs from April-October and most outfitters want the youngest participants to be 10 years old.
Prices start at $650 per person. Youth prices are available.
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