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Desolation Canyon River Rafting
Colorado and Utah Rafting Trips
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Contact Adventure Bound River Expeditions
 
800-423-4668
970-245-5428

Adventure Bound
2392 H Road
Grand Junction, CO 81505

970-241-5633 Fax

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Desolation Canyon River Rafting Desolation Canyon petroglyphs
Description   |   Itinerary   |   Desolation Canyon Map

Desolation Canyon River Rafting


Located deep within the Tavaputs Plateau, Desolation Canyon is one of the most remote wilderness areas in Utah. Steep canyon walls with towering spires and abundant arches are spread throughout the region. Large beaches with giant cottonwood trees provide great campsites. Mild stretches of water offer many opportunities to swim and relax on the water.

A perfect canyon for inflatable kayaking with many rapids to enjoy. Explore the side canyons while hiking to ruins, historical sites and scenic overlooks. Bears, deer, desert bighorn sheep, great blue herons, and one of the last bands of wild horses live along the river corridor.

Desolation Canyon Rafting and Inflatable Kayaking
Click for large view of Desolation Canyon River Rafting


There is much history in Desolation Canyon. The Fremont Indians inhabited the area and lived off the land. View ancient ruins left behind by the Fremont people that tell the tale of life in the canyon several centuries ago. Ranchers moved into the area before 1900 and transported everything in by horseback. Outbuildings still stand today shaded by apple trees while Rock Creek offers a great opportunity to cool off in the summer heat.

Outlaws frequented the Green River territory, often swapping horses with ranchers in the canyon. The rugged terrain offered a perfect hiding spot for Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch who left their mark down the Green River. John Wesley Powell documented his expedition through the canyon in 1869. Powell and his crew named all the rapids on the river and many of the side canyons.

Desolation Canyon's Bighorn Sheep
Click for large view of Desolation Canyon's Bighorn Sheep


The charter flight into the canyon offers spectacular views of the journey ahead. Due to weight limitations on the charter flight your baggage must weigh less than 25 pounds. If you would like to order beer or soft drinks, please call in advance. Our equipment vehicles will transport beverage orders to the launch site the day before the trip.

Because of its rich history and its unique cultural significance to the Ute people, Desolation Canyon has been designated as a national landmark. We appreciate and respect the importance of this beautiful region.

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Desolation Canyon Rates / Dates:

2009     2010

Trip Details:

Trip Length: 4 5 & 6 Days

Rapid Rating: II-III.

Boats: Oar rafts, motor cargo rafts, and inflatable kayaks.

Private Charter Trips: Available on 4, 5 & 6 day trips, April-November. Call for details.

Location: Green River: Desolation and Grey Canyons

Leave 8:00 a.m. from the Canyonlands Field airport near Moab, Utah, or 8:00 a.m. Grand Vista Hotel, Grand Junction, Colorado. Return approximately 5:30 p.m. to Moab airport, or 7:00 p.m. to Grand Junction.

Included in the trip:

  • Van transportation back to Moab Airport or Grand Junction, Colorado
  • Tent and sleeping pad
  • Inflatable kayaks
  • Delicious meals, beverages, ice and coolers
  • Life vests
  • Dry bags for personal gear
  • Please order alcoholic beverages and soft drinks in advance. Call our office for ordering information.

"We had to tell you, our five days in Desolation Canyon could not have been better because of your encouragement and confidence-building. We took on the river and had a wonderful time. At camp, Jason and Darin provided the entertainment and superb meals in a relaxed atmosphere. Thank you for a restful, recuperative time!"
— Randy and Donna M.

"Once again, we had a wonderful river trip in Desolation Canyon with Adventure Bound! We appreciate all the hard work the guides put into the trip, the good food, the hikes, and getting all of us safely down the river. This was the third time I was fortunate enough to share the experience and I already look forward to the next."  — Leon M.


More river trip testimonials