Desolation / Tavaputs Ranch

The Tavaputs Ranch overlooks Desolation Canyon of the Green River. After two days of exploring the mountains, a short flight will take you to the beginning of your river trip. There we will trade our pants for shorts, and say goodbye to the cowboys and hello to the river guides. Now it’s their turn to share some favorite places with you.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike deep into the high mountains of the Tavaputs Plateau
• Raft Desolation Canyon which is deeper than the Grand Canyon at the Bright Angel Trail
• Shady cottonwood trees and white sandy beaches make this a friendly place for kids

• About Holiday

  

  Find out more about Holiday River Expeditions

• The Food

  

  Learn more about the great food

• The Gear

  

  Gear description

Sample Itinerary

Tavaputs Ranch is located in the remote wilderness of the Tavaputs Plateau, in east-central Utah.  Access to the Ranch is provided by small plane.  In addition to recreational activities, Tavaputs offers a rich history of early American ranch life for visitors to experience and enjoy.

Desolation and Gray Canyons are on the National Register of Historic Places because the famous and infamous were drawn here.  In 1830, trapper Denis Julien left graffiti on the canyon walls.  Almost 40 years later, John Wesley Powell traveled through the canyons and christened them.  Soon after Powell passed through, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid found this a great place to escape justice.  Today, if you really want to get away, there’s no better place than the Green River Wilderness.  The Green River cuts a series of chasms through the Tavaputs Plateau and forms a gorge deeper than the Grand Canyon at Bright Angel Creek (5500′).  There are petroglyphs, ruins, abandoned homesteads and marvelous camping sites among verdant cottonwoods on soft sand beaches.  This is a perfect place to try your skills with an inflatable kayak.

Itinerary

One of the advantages of our expeditions is the flexibility of the daily itinerary.  It can vary widely from one trip to the next based on group desires, Mother Nature, and courtesy for other groups on the trip. This typical itinerary illustrates a seven-day trip beginning with two days at the Ranch and ending with five days rafting through Desolation and Gray canyons.  In August, we lengthen the Desolation Canyon trip by one day and follow this general itinerary.

Day 1:

Fly into Tavaputs Ranch from Green River.  Unpack at the lodge, and enjoy the first of several country style meals prepared at the ranch.  After lunch, guests can enjoy horseback riding, walking, or simply relaxing in the mountains.  An evening campfire completes the day before retiring to the ranch style cabins.

Day 2:

Tavaputs Ranch is surrounded on all sides by wilderness.  This region plays host to an abundance of wildlife including deer, elk, birds of prey, bears, and many other varieties of animals.  More horseback riding, 4 X 4 tours, walking, and exploring, give guests the opportunity to view some of this wildlife.

Day 3:

Fly into Sand Wash put-in from Tavaputs Ranch.  There is a 30 minute downhill hike from canyon rim to the rafts waiting at river bottom.  The trail is well marked but there is some loose footing along the way.  Plan ahead to wear appropriate shoes for the hike.  Guests who are apprehensive about the hike can be transported by vehicle to the river.  View a historical marker at head of Desolation Canyon before entering the canyon.  Camp this evening near Gold Hole.

Day 4:

Hikes to Fremont Indian ruins and petroglyphs interspersed with sections of whitewater.  Steer Ridge Rapid is the most memorable.  Camp in a cottonwood grove or on a mile-long sandbar.

Day 5:

Side canyon hike up Rock Creek, a clearwater stream.  Extensive petroglyphs, and abandoned Rock Creek and McPherson Ranches, where Butch Cassidy’s Wild Bunch slept.

Day 6:

The whitewater has gotten bigger each day.  The crescendo:  Belknap, Three Fords, and Coal Creek rapids.  Leave Desolation and enter Gray Canyon.

Day 7:

We will run a half dozen more rapids before lunch and then take out near Swasey’s beach.  Short trip back to Green River and our headquarters.

Trip Details

Meet for your trip

We meet for your trip in Green River, Utah at Holiday River Expeditions headquarters, 8:00 a.m. (Mountain Time) the morning your trip begins.  Our headquarters is located 1/4 mile east of the Green River Bridge, across the highway from the Motel 6 and behind the Comfort Inn.  If you arrive in Green River by shuttle, bus, Amtrak or plane, call our headquarters (435-564-3273) upon your arrival to make arrangements to have you and your gear transported to our headquarters the morning of the trip.  If you are driving, your car can be left at our headquarters.

Beginning of the trip

Upon your arrival at our headquarters (8:00 a.m., Mountain Time), we will issue your waterproof bags.  Special Note: Items specific for the ranch can be stored and brought back to our headquarters in Green River, Utah. Please bring a soft bag to put these items in. You can buy any last minute items from our accessory’s store at this time (see check list of what to bring for a list of items you can find at our store).  We will then take you to the local airstrip.  Our prescheduled flight will be waiting to take you to Tavaputs Ranch (20 minutes).  The flight is on a small single engine type aircraft.

After the trip

We will return you to Green River, Utah (30 minute van ride).  Our expected time of arrival back at our headquarters is 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Medical Emergencies:

Our guides are trained in first-aid and carry first aid supplies only.  REMEMBER to bring your own prescription medicines.  ALERT our guides to any medical problems you might have such as diabetes or allergic reactions.  Wilderness expeditions are a long way from hospitals, doctors, and pain-relieving medicines.  Evacuations to modern medical care are uncertain, and protracted.  In case of evacuation and/or medical treatment beyond first aid, expenses incurred are the responsibility of the participant.

Cancellation Policy:

If cancellations are made prior to 90 days before the trip, monies will be refunded less a $50.00 service charge per person.  If cancellations are made within 90 days and outside of 45 days of the trip date monies will be refunded less a $100.00 service charge per person.  Cancellations made within 45 days of the trip date are non refundable.  Prior to 45 days to the trip date we will transfer reservations to another trip in the same year with a $25.00 service charge per person.  All policies will be enforced and we strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance.  Cancellation of a trip is very unlikely, but we reserve the right to cancel any trip due to river or weather conditions or the lack of sufficient reservations.  A full refund will be made if such is the case.

Insurance:

Medical and cancellation insurance on a vacation plan can be obtained from numerous insurance companies.  We offer plans underwritten by TRAVEL GUARD that cover accident, baggage and cancellation claims.  An application should be enclosed with this information package.  We encourage all to take advantage of this coverage.  This is available to American and Canadian citizens, as well as citizens of another country as long as you have a U.S. address.  If you have questions give us a call.  Also, if you are bringing expensive cameras, binoculars, or other items we suggest you have insurance coverage for them (commonly available through Homeowners Policies).  In the event of a loss, our insurance will not cover those items.

Tipping the guides:

Many guests ask us if tipping is appropriate after the trip.  If you feel the the guides have been instrumental in your enjoyment of the trip, you may choose to direct a gratuity to the trip leader in the form of cash or check.  He/She will then distribute it evenly to the other crewmembers.  Of those that choose to tip, the average contribution amount ranges between $15.00 and $25.00 per guest, per day.  However, the decision to tip is left to your sole discretion.  Note that on this trip you will have one set of hosts at the ranch, and a different set of guides on the river. If you intend to tip both, you should do so separately, at the end of each segment of the trip.

Beverages:

We provide ice water, lemonade, two sodas per day per person and ample cooler space.  If you choose to bring any specialty sodas and/or alcoholic beverages, we have no problem taking whatever you want to bring – within reason.  We can transport these extra beverages to the river for you.  Don’t bring beer, wine coolers or sodas in glass containers.  Wine packaged in a box is ideal.  Mark beverages that you bring so they are packed on your boat. The liquor store in Green River, Utah is located in the back of the West Winds restaurant.  In Utah, wine or liquor is not sold after 7:00 p.m., before 11:00 a.m., or on Sundays and holidays.

If you have any questions

Prior to leaving for your trip, we welcome you to call our Salt Lake City office, Monday through Friday at 800-624-6323 (outside Utah) or 801-266-2087 (inside Utah).  We’re happy to take the time to answer your questions.  You may also contact us by email at holiday@bikeraft.com.

IN THE EVENT OF EMERGENCY CIRCUMSTANCES THE NIGHT BEFORE THE TRIP, OUR GREEN RIVER HEADQUARTERS NUMBER IS 435-564-3273.

About the Area

Tavaputs Ranch / Desolation weather

Tavaputs Ranch sits at an elevation of approximately 9,400 ft above sea level.  Temperatures average 75-85 degrees for daytime highs and 40-50 for nighttime lows.  Because of the high altitude it is common for storms to pass through and cause cooler temperatures.  Please come prepared for this possibility.  On the Green River in Desolation and Gray Canyons, June through August the daytime temperatures are 80 to 100 degrees, with nighttime temperatures 60 to 70 degrees.  Light rain showers occasionally occur in this area, and it can cool temperatures considerably.  With this in mind we recommend you have a poncho or rain suit, polypropylene underwear, (fleece top and pants are nice in cool weather too) and a light tent.  If you reserved a rental unit with us when you booked your river trip, we will have a tent and rain gear for you.  There will also be an abundance of sun, so bring a hat and plenty of suntan lotion and/or sunscreens.

Bugs, snakes, etc.

Bugs, snakes, etc. are generally no problem.  In fact, the lack of pesky insects is one of the reasons that wilderness camping on the river is so pleasant.  Any river trip, however, is subject to an occasional localized insect hatch.  During these hatches (most common in June to mid-July) mosquitos can be bothersome.  Be sure to bring long sleeve clothing and a generous supply of repellent.  Insect repellents that contain “deet” are by far the most effective during heavy hatches, but are also suspected of causing various health problems.  Citronella-based products (skin-so-soft) work only in light hatches.  We rarely see any snakes, but if the thought of them bothers you, try sleeping on the beaches or in a tent instead of rocky or bushy areas.

Hiking

Hiking is a highlight of the trip, however, it is strictly an optional activity.  There are many interesting short hikes available.  Hiking can be done in durable sneakers or lightweight hiking boots.  Remember that hiking and other activities vary widely pending time, and what other plans are ahead for the day on the river.

Best place to eat

The best place to eat in Green River is Ray’s Tavern.  Ray’s is a true small western town bar rich in atmosphere and good food.  They serve incredible hamburgers, pork chops, small salads and steaks.  The Tamarisk Restaurant offers family dining with riverside seating.

Things to see in the area:

John Wesley Powell Museum in Green River, Utah.  Arches National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands National Park, Fisher Towers, Colorado National Monument, Goblin Valley State Park, San Rafael Swell, Capital Reef National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, and the La Sal and Henry Mountains.

Reading material you may enjoy:

Exploration of the Colorado River Powell $12.95
Desolation River Guide Belknap (waterproof) $19.95
The Educated Outlaw Harvey Lay Murdock (Grandson) $10.95
Life in Stone Christa Sadler $11.95
Desolation Canyon and Gray Canyons Felix E. Mutschler $10.95
The River Knows Everything: Desolation Canyon & the Green Aton/Miller $34.95

These books can be ordered online at our e-store, or by sending the appropriate amount listed above plus $4.95 shipping and handling for the first book, and an additional $2.00 for each book thereafter to Holiday River Expeditions, 544 East 3900 South, SLC, UT 84107.  This is available within the U.S. only.  If outside the U.S. additional shipping and handling charges will be added.  You can call 801-266-2087 for rates.  These books can also be purchased at our headquarters in Green River.

Getting Here

If you are flying

You can fly to Salt Lake City located 180 miles northwest of Green River, Utah (all major airlines), or fly to Moab from Denver (Great Lakes Aviation) 52 miles south of Green River, Utah.   From both destinations you can rent a car or take a shuttle with Moab Luxury Coach (call 435-940-4212 or www.moabluxurycoach.com) to Green River.  If you need assistance with your travel arrangements, please ask your Holiday River Expedition reservation agent.

Lodging

Lodging before and after your trip can be booked at one of six locations:

River Terrace Inn 435-564-3401 (locally owned, pool, hot tub, full breakfast, riverside rooms available) www.river-terrace.com

Comfort Inn 435-564-3300 (inside pool, hot tub, continental breakfast – in front of our headquarters) *10% discount for Holiday guests – must have a trip invoice at check in. www.comfortinn.com/hotel-green_river-utah-UT424

Holiday Inn Express 435-564-4439 (inside pool, hot tub, continental breakfast – west of our headquarters) www.hiexpress.com

Super 8 435-564-8888 (inside pool, hot tub, refrigerator, microwave) www.super8.com

Motel 6 435-564-3436 (pool, kids free, lower rates) www.motel6.com

Sleepy Hollow 435-564-8189 (clean with lower rates)

*When making advance reservations at the Comfort Inn, mention that you are on a Holiday River Expedition trip and you will be extended a discounted rate on your room (see above).

BE SURE TO MAKE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS!!

If you are camping out

There are two campgrounds in Green River:  the Green River State Park (no pool, lower rates and may have mosquitos – call 435-564-3633 to make reservations), and the KOA Campground (435-564-8195 – across from our headquarters).

Holiday River Expedition's Travel Agent - Mary Griggs is happy to assist you with your travel plans. Mary has been planning travel for Holiday's guests for more than 18 years and has 24 years of experience in the travel industry! Contact Mary to take the work out of "Getting Here".

Direct line - 801-466-1447
Toll Free - 800-264-0557 (You must ask for Mary Griggs)
Email Her: marygriggs13@msn.com

Or, do it yourself, we can help…

Colorado and Utah Rivers
Gateway - Salt Lake City, Utah OR Denver, Colorado

Air Service to Salt Lake City (SLC) or Denver (DEN)

• America West Airlines 800-235-9292
• American Airlines 800-433-7300
• Continental Airlines 800-525-0280
• Delta Air Lines 800-221-1212
• Frontier Airlines 800-432-1359
• JetBlue Airways 800-538-2583
• Northwest Airlines 800-225-2525
• SkyWest Airlines 800-453-9417
• Southwest Airlines 800-435-9792
• United Airlines 800-241-6522
• United Express 800-241-6522
• US Airways 800-435-9792

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FROM SALT LAKE CITY to Green River, Vernal or Blanding, Utah
Rental Cars

Once in Salt Lake City most of our guests rent-a-car and drive to our meeting points.
All rental cars are located in both terminals of the Salt Lake City Airport.

• Alamo Rental Car 801-575-2211
• Budget Rental Car 801-575-2821
• Dollar Rent a Car 801-575-2580
• Thrifty Rental Car 801-265-6677

Salt Lake City to Green River 180 miles
Salt Lake City to Blanding 300 miles
Salt Lake City to Vernal 180 miles

Shuttle Service to Green River or Blanding, Utah from Salt Lake City (Vernal is on a Charter basis only)

• Moab Luxury Coach 435-940-4212

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FROM DENVER to Green River, Vernal or Blanding, Utah
Air Service to Vernal (VEL), Utah from Denver, Colorado

• Great Lakes Aviation 800-554-5111
• Alamo Rental Car in Vernal 888-426-3299

Air Service to Moab (CNY) (52 miles south of Green River), Utah from Denver, Colorado

• Great Lakes Aviation 800-554-5111
• Thrifty Car Rental in Moab 800-373-0277

Gear & Clothing Checklist

GEAR YOU MUST BRING OR RENT FROM HOLIDAY

RECOMMENDED CLOTHING

EARLY OR LATE SEASONS SUPPLEMENTS

BIKE CLOTHING & GEAR SUPPLEMENT

  ITEMS YOU CAN BUY AT HOLIDAY'S ONLINE STORE: www.HolidayExpeditions.com/store or at our accessories stores in Green River and Vernal; the meeting points for our combination Bike and Raft trips.

  ITEMS YOU CAN BUY AT BACKCOUNTRY.COM: www.backcountry.com