Moab: Colorado River Mid-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch

If you’re visiting Moab and craving a mix of adventure and good food, the Colorado River Mid-Day Rafting offer from Canyon Country River Adventures might very well be your perfect day out. This tour combines a relaxing float, just enough splash to get your adrenaline going, and a hearty riverside BBQ—making it an appealing choice for those who want to experience the beauty of this iconic landscape without spending hours on the water.

We particularly like the flexibility of choosing between paddle rafts or inflatable kayaks, the spectacular canyon views, and the delicious BBQ lunch that’s included. One thing to consider is that if you’re hoping for intense rapids, this might not fully satisfy your craving, as some reviews mention the water levels can be lower in summer, resulting in calmer waters. This tour suits travelers who are after a relaxed yet scenic adventure, great for families, groups, or anyone wanting a taste of rafting paired with good food.

Good To Know

• Scenic float with moderate rapids offers a balanced adventure suitable for a wide range of guests.
• Gourmet BBQ lunch at a riverside ranch provides excellent value and a relaxed dining experience.
• Flexible options like paddle rafts or inflatable kayaks cater to different comfort levels and preferences.
• Expert guides make the experience both safe and engaging, with plenty of interesting insights.
• Ideal for a half-day activity that fits well into a broader Moab itinerary, especially if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
• Capacity and age restrictions ensure safety, with guests needing to meet specific weight and size requirements.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Moab Colorado River Rafting Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This mid-day adventure kicks off just below Rocky Rapid, giving you a chance to enjoy the morning before heading out on the water. Once you arrive at the meeting point inside the Moab Adventure Center, your guides will equip you with all the necessary gear—life jackets approved by the US Coast Guard, paddles, and inflatable kayaks if you opt for that. The group size is typically manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides like Ben, who’s praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge.

The float begins with a gentle start, where you’ll be able to take in the stunning canyon formations and vivid red rock walls that border the Colorado River, some of which are part of nearby Arches National Park. The first section of the tour is relaxing, with the chance to chat with your guide and absorb the scenery. As you approach White’s Rapid, the excitement ramps up—it’s the most notable feature of the trip for thrill-seekers, with some moderate splashes and fun maneuvering.

The Riverside BBQ Lunch: A Highlight

One of the standout features of this tour is the lunch break at a scenic riverside ranch. After navigating through the calmer waters, you’ll anchor at a picturesque spot where freshly grilled food awaits. Guests rave about the quality of the barbecue, with options including juicy burgers, tender chicken, hot dogs, or tasty veggie patties. Side salads, soft cookies, and drinks like lemonade, iced tea, and water round out the meal.

According to reviews, the lunch is not only generous but also well-prepared, with many mentioning that the food surpasses typical BBQ fare in both flavor and freshness. The relaxed atmosphere here offers a perfect chance to recharge and chat with your fellow adventurers while soaking in views of the canyon walls.

Navigating White’s Rapid and the Surrounding Canyons

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a few more moderate splashes as you tackle White’s Rapid, which is generally suitable for both paddlers and inflatable kayakers. The guides do an excellent job of ensuring safety while maintaining a lively and fun environment. The canyon walls gradually narrow, creating a more intimate feeling as you glide through, with the towering red cliffs providing a stunning backdrop.

Many reviews mention how calming and scenic this part of the river is, even if the rapids are not intense. One traveler noted, “The rapids are very calm in summer,” which can be a plus or a minus depending on what you’re seeking. If you’re after high-adrenaline whitewater, this trip might be more leisurely, but for those wanting a scenic float with just enough splash, it hits the mark.

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The Experience: What Guides and Guests Say

Guests consistently praise guides like Ben for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. The guides’ insights about the canyon and river ecosystem add value, making the trip educational and engaging. The group size tends to be manageable, and the staff creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere—something many reviews highlight as a standout.

For instance, one reviewer from France mentioned that the team is “very dynamic” and that the guide was “excellent,” enhancing their overall experience. The younger staff members are described as “extremely friendly” and eager to make the day enjoyable.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours in total, with about 3.5 hours on the water, which is ideal for travelers who want a substantial outing but not a full-day commitment. The meeting point is at the Moab Adventure Center, and transportation is included from there, simplifying logistics.

The cost of $114 per person is quite reasonable considering the included equipment, lunch, and guided experience. The price reflects good value, especially since reviews frequently mention the quality of the food and attentive guides.

Age and size restrictions are in place: guests must be at least 5 years old, weigh at least 50 pounds, and have a chest size under 52 inches. All guests are required to wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times on the water, ensuring safety without sacrificing fun.

Who Would Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for families with kids, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking to meet like-minded adventurers. It suits those who prefer a moderate, scenic float over extreme whitewater, but still want the thrill of navigating some rapids and the satisfaction of a good meal afterward.

If you’re interested in combining adventure with relaxation and enjoy sharing a hearty meal in beautiful surroundings, this tour checks all boxes. Conversely, if you’re after intense rapids or a longer river journey, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

For a half-day adventure that combines the visual spectacle of Moab’s canyon scenery with a fun and manageable river experience, this rafting trip offers great value. The inclusion of a gourmet BBQ lunch elevates it beyond just a water activity, turning it into a memorable outing you’ll talk about long after.

The knowledgeable guides and relaxed pace make it accessible for a variety of travelers, especially families or first-time rafters. While the rapids are moderate, the stunning canyon views and the delicious lunch are what truly make this experience stand out.

If you’re seeking a beautiful, laid-back river trip with friendly guides and a hearty meal, this tour is a fantastic choice. It fits perfectly into a broader Moab itinerary that includes exploring national parks and other outdoor adventures.

FAQs

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, the tour begins at the Moab Adventure Center, and transportation is not included. You will need to meet at the center inside the building.

What should I wear?
Guests are required to wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket on the water. Comfortable clothing suitable for water activities is recommended, along with sun protection.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and older who weigh at least 50 pounds and have a chest size under 52 inches can join the tour.

What if I want a more adrenaline-filled experience?
This tour features moderate rapids and is ideal for a scenic, relaxed experience. If you seek higher-intensity whitewater, other trips might better suit your preferences.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers rafting equipment, guides, life jackets, a delicious BBQ lunch with sides and drinks, and a complimentary flip-top water bottle valued at $14.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Overall, the Moab Colorado River Mid-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch offers a wonderful balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of the river without the intensity of whitewater, topped with a satisfying meal and guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable day on the water, this trip ticks many boxes for a genuine Moab experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: