Must-See Springtime River Rafting Trips

March 11, 2014

Where can you find the funnest, most rapid-y whitewater rafting in the springtime? Or the most classic views of southwestern canyon country scenery? How about water that begs to be played on in inflatable kayaks? On one of these four river trips, with Holiday! Each trip offers something unique and not-to-be-missed.

Yampa River

The last undammed river in the Colorado River system, the Yampa is one heck of a wild ride. Springtime trips are virtually guaranteed to see plenty of big water as the snowmelt roars downstream. What does this mean for you, the intrepid river rafter of the Yampa? Way more fun than you can shake a stick at!

Cataract Canyon

During springtime flows, the waters of Cataract Canyon are big, bold, and bodacious. Winding directly through the heart of sublime Canyonlands National Park, this river raft adventure is what rafting trip memories are made from. Hop aboard and see for yourself why this famous canyon echoes with exhilarated hollering on its thrill ride whitewater sections.

San Juan River

Rafts and kayaks both offer lively entertainment on the San Juan. With the water dropping eight feet for every mile, this is the fastest-moving river Holiday runs. Ancient Puebloan petroglyph panels adorn some of the canyon walls and crumbling ruin sites prod the imagination to wonder what life was like here a thousand years ago or more.

Desolation Canyon

In search of big, roller-coaster-style rapids? Deso, as it is affectionately called, has those in spades. Although more than 60 rapids grace the waters of Desolation Canyon, they are more moderate, which means this is a great family trip. This part of the Green River is also notable for its burst of springtime wildflowers, which add great bits of color to the already stunning red canyon walls.

Written by Julie Trevelyan.

Julie is a freelance writer and wilderness guide in southern Utah. She especially enjoys books, coffee, yoga, wild country, horses, and dark chocolate.