Private River Rafting Excursion!

Our review explores the Private River Rafting Excursion offered in Provo, Utah—a tour that promises a personalized, scenic float along the mountain-fed Provo River. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews, detailed descriptions, and solid safety credentials paint a compelling picture of what you can expect from this outing.

What we love about this experience is the chance to enjoy intimate, private-guided adventure with attentive guides, the stunning natural surroundings full of evergreen trees and granite cliffs, and the opportunity to see local wildlife. The friendly guides, like Jake and Elliott, are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, making the trip both educational and entertaining. The flexibility to choose between rafting and kayaking, and the option to add a waterfall hike, adds to the versatility of the experience.

One potential consideration is the minimum group size of three adults to book, which might be a hurdle for solo travelers or small groups. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, travelers should be prepared for possible cancellations in poor conditions. This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic float with a touch of adventure and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Utah’s beautiful landscape.

If you’re after a laid-back yet memorable outdoor activity, this private river trip could be just what you need. It caters well to families, couples, or small groups wanting a safe, guided experience away from busy commercial tours, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos and enjoy nature.

Good To Know

• Private, guided experience ensures personalized attention and expert insights
• Stunning scenery with evergreen trees, granite cliffs, and crystal-clear water
• Flexible options for rafting or kayaking, with add-on waterfall hikes
• Family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, with well-trained guides
• Weather-dependent, with a clear cancellation policy
• Affordable for the quality, at only $99 for a 2-hour trip

What to Expect on the Private River Rafting Excursion

The adventure kicks off at the meeting point at Vivian Park, about an hour from downtown Salt Lake City, a scenic drive that gets you into the mountains and ready for your river adventure. Once there, your group, which must include at least three adults, will be outfitted with lifejackets and dry bags—perfect for protecting your valuables while you float.

The actual float covers about 5 miles along the Provo River, which features class I-II rapids. This means the ride is primarily gentle but includes a few mild rapids, making it suitable for most ages and skill levels. The guides, like Jake and Elliott, are praised for sharing engaging stories about Utah’s history and local legends, making the journey both fun and informative.

Throughout the trip, you’ll pass stunning scenery, including towering granite cliffs and lush evergreen trees. The river is teeming with wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for birds, fish, and perhaps even some deer along the banks. Guests have noted the crystal-clear water—refreshingly cold and perfect for a quick splash or jump for the brave.

For an added dose of fun, the guides can provide long-range water guns to turn your float into a playful battle, shooting obstacles or just having a laugh. Reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the whimsical pirate-themed antics, with one reviewer noting, “Beware of pirates, arrrrrrg!”

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours on the water, but the whole experience—from meeting to wrapping up—runs about 2 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy. After the float, you’ll return to the starting point, with photos taken during the trip to capture your memories.

Additional Options and Flexibility

Most guests opt for the standard raft or kayak trip, but there’s an option to add a waterfall hike after booking—though this is subject to availability. This makes the tour appealing for those who want to extend their outdoor adventure and explore Utah’s rugged beauty further.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

Reviewers consistently praised guide knowledge and friendliness. Sally_B highlighted Jake and Elliott’s excellent leadership, sharing a lot of information about Utah that added depth to the experience. Guests felt safe and well-attended, which is crucial when floating on a river with mild rapids but still active water.

Comfort and Convenience

All necessary safety gear, like lifejackets, is provided, along with dry bags for your phones and cameras. Complimentary water is available, and guests are encouraged to take pictures—either with your own device or with provided photos. The tour’s private nature means you won’t be crowded or rushed, making for a relaxed, personalized outing.

How the Tour Brings Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. The guided nature ensures you won’t need to worry about navigation or safety, making it ideal for those unfamiliar with river trips. The small group size allows for a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and engage with your guides.

The inclusion of water guns and fun storytelling heightens the experience, turning a simple float into a memorable outing. On top of that, the scenic beauty of the river, combined with the chance to see local wildlife, elevates this trip beyond just a float.

The flexibility to choose rafting or kayaking caters to different comfort levels and preferences, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the river in their favored way. Plus, the option for a waterfall hike provides an added adventure for those wanting to extend their day outdoors.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private river trip is perfect for families seeking a safe, scenic outing, couples wanting a romantic yet relaxed adventure, or small groups of friends looking for a fun way to experience Utah’s outdoors. Because it’s private, it’s a good fit for those who prefer an individual or tailored experience rather than a crowded tour.

It’s also ideal for first-time floaters or kayakers, thanks to the gentle rapids and expert guides. If you’re someone who enjoys wildlife sightings, stunning natural vistas, and a bit of playful fun, this trip will likely tick all your boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $99, the Private River Rafting Excursion offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure that balances scenic beauty, safety, and personalized service. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, coupled with the stunning Utah landscape, make it a worthwhile addition to any Utah itinerary.

The flexibility to choose between raft and kayak, plus options for extending your adventure with a waterfall hike, adds value that many other tours don’t offer. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and engaging outdoor activity, this trip delivers.

However, keep in mind the group size minimum and weather considerations—this experience is best enjoyed in good weather and with a small, eager group. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to combine nature, fun, and expert guidance in a private setting.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What are the minimum number of people required to book?
You need at least three adults to book this adventure.

Can I choose between rafting and kayaking?
Yes, after booking, you can specify your preference for raft or kayak—no default choice is made.

How long does the trip last?
The actual float on the river lasts around 1.5 hours, with the overall experience taking about 2 hours.

What should I bring?
The tour provides lifejackets, dry bags, and water, but it’s best to bring waterproof clothing if needed and a camera or phone for photos.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the calm nature of the float and mild rapids suggest it could be suitable for most ages, especially with adult supervision.

To sum it up, the Private River Rafting Excursion in Provo offers a relaxing yet exciting way to experience Utah’s stunning natural beauty. With expert guides, scenic views, and flexible options, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a memorable outdoor adventure close to Salt Lake City. Perfect for those who value safety, intimacy, and fun, this trip is likely to become a highlight of your Utah trip.