Low Water Conditions Expected to Shape 2026 Rafting Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Low Water Conditions Expected to Shape 2026 Rafting Season

Salt Lake City, Utah — April 14, 2026 — Holiday River Expeditions announced today that below-average snowpack levels across the Colorado River Basin are expected to result in low water conditions for the 2026 rafting season. While this presents operational challenges, it also offers guests a unique and intimate river experience.

Unseasonably warm winter temperatures and reduced snowfall have contributed to diminished runoff forecasts, particularly on stretches of the Green and Colorado Rivers. As a result, river flows are anticipated to be lower and slower than typical peak-season conditions.

Green River Rafting through Lodore Canyon

“Low water years change the character of a river trip in meaningful ways,” said Rachel Zuckerman, Operations Manager at Holiday River Expeditions. “Guests can expect more technical navigation, unique opportunities for hiking and exploration, and a closer connection to the canyon environment.” Some trips may offer shorter hiking opportunities due to the lower flows, while other trips may lean into expanded hiking opportunities. Each itinerary is adjusted to balance the mileage requirements of a river trip with the desires of the guests.

Trips will continue to operate throughout the season, with adjustments made to itineraries to ensure safety and enjoyment. As the season kicks off, guides are receiving additional training to adapt to the evolving river conditions.

Despite lower flows, these iconic river sections remain runnable, though some stretches, such as the Yampa River in Dinosaur National Monument and the San Juan River, will likely have shorter rafting seasons. “We’re working closely with our guests to offer our standard itinerary trips. In cases where the water is deemed too low to provide a safe and enjoyable river experience, we have alternate launches on other river stretches available to move guests to,” Office and Reservations Manager, Karen Johnson explained. 

Although this season presents record-low snow runoff, the unique nature of the Colorado River Basin and its dams ensures that there will still be water flowing downstream. Holiday River Expeditions operates on the Upper Basin of the Colorado River, above Glen Canyon Dam. Due to the hydropower and downstream water demands of states like California, it is anticipated that the Bureau of Reclamation will release water throughout the season. River stretches such as the Gates of Lodore and Desolation Canyon, on the Green River, can anticipate water released from the Flaming Gorge Dam upstream, ensuring adequate river flows for companies such as Holiday to continue offering rafting trips.

“Every river season tells a different story,” Zuckerman added. “While 2026 brings lower water, it also brings a rare chance to experience these rivers in a quieter, more reflective way.” Sandbars and beaches will be more exposed, creating expanded camping options and new opportunities for fun riverside activities. 

For more information, visit the Holiday River Expeditions website at bikeraft.com or contact their office directly.

Media Contact: Karen Johnson
Holiday River Expeditions
Phone: (801) 266-2087
Email: info.HolidayRiver@gmail.com