Westwater Canyon is a short, intense stretch of the Colorado River west of the Colorado state line, about an hour's drive from Moab. The river cuts through ancient black rock, which gives the canyon its brooding look, and the walls close in as the water speeds up and the rapids begin. This is classic whitewater, with a string of rapids over the day that range from lively to challenging, interspersed with calm stretches where you can look at the scenery and swim. Outfitters run full-day trips from Moab, driving you to the put-in, providing rafts, guides and lunch, and returning you to town in the evening. It is a good fit for people who find the gentle half-day float near Fisher Towers too tame and want more adrenaline, yet do not have the time or budget for Cataract Canyon.
Westwater is a permit-controlled river, and commercial outfitters hold the permits and handle the paperwork, which is one reason a guided trip is the simplest way to see it. Trips run in the warm months, typically from spring into early autumn, with the best conditions for big water in late spring and a calmer, warmer river later in summer. Expect cold splashes even on hot days, because the water is cold and the canyon walls throw shade.
No experience is needed, though you must be comfortable in moving water and able to follow a guide's instructions in a hurry. Some rapids are big enough to throw people overboard in high water, and guides brief the crew thoroughly on how to hold on, how to swim a rapid and how to get back in the raft. Operators often set minimum age and weight rules, so check them if you are bringing teenagers, and consider the half-day alternatives if anyone in your group is a nervous swimmer.
Make a day of it by planning the logistics. The drive to the put-in is long enough that the trip starts early and ends late, so do not book a tight evening schedule. Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, sandals that strap on, a hat and sunscreen, and bring a dry change of clothes for the ride back. Cameras should be waterproof or left behind. Book ahead in busy weeks, and ask the outfitter how the current flow will affect the run.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day raft trip through the Westwater Canyon rapids, with transport from Moab, lunch and safety gear provided.
Best time
Late spring for the biggest water; summer for warmer, calmer conditions. Trips run only in the warm months.
How long
A full day, including the drive to the put-in and back.
Tips
Wear quick-dry clothes and strapped sandals, bring a dry change, apply sunscreen and listen carefully to the safety briefing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travelers who want a day of real whitewater and dramatic black rock scenery.
- Families
- Best for teenagers who swim well; check each operator's minimum age and weight.
- Couples
- A shared adrenaline day, followed by dinner in Moab.
- Pair with
- A calmer half-day at Fisher Towers on another day, or a stargazing night.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Westwater Canyon from Moab?+
About an hour by road to the put-in. Outfitters usually handle transport as part of the trip.
How big are the rapids?+
They range from lively to challenging, and the biggest are significant at high water. Guides brief the crew thoroughly before each rapid.
Do I need experience?+
No, but you must be comfortable in moving water and able to follow instructions quickly. Minimum age and weight rules apply.
When does the trip run?+
Typically in the warm months, from spring into early autumn. Check with the outfitter for specific operating periods.
Is it suitable for children?+
Only for older children who swim confidently and meet the operator's minimums. Families with younger children can choose the gentle half-day float near Fisher Towers.
