Before You Go: J.W. Powell Retrace – Flaming Gorge to Hite Crossing (full, 23 days)

Overview

Sample Itinerary

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:

The Day Before Your Trip…

We’ll meet at 5:00 PM at the OARS Warehouse in Vernal, Utah, for a pre-trip meeting. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and trip leader and ask any last-minute questions. Your trip leader will give you a thorough trip orientation, and pass out your waterproof river bags so that you can pack your belongings that evening.

Day 1 Flaming Gorge Dam to Gates of Lodore

“Today we have an exciting ride, and make almost railroad speed. Here and there the water rushes into a narrow gorge; rocks roll it into great waves, and the boats go leaping and bounding like things of life.” J.W. Powell, June 1, 1869

We begin our trip with a scenic drive from Vernal to our put-in below the Flaming Gorge Dam, where the boats and the rest of the OARS crew await. After a detailed safety talk, our journey begins.

The first day is full of fun whitewater, including Anticipation Rapid, Roller Coaster Rapid and Mother-in-Law Rapid. The splashy, crystal clear waters of the Green River carry us into the heart of Ashley National Forest.

Our first day sets the pace for the rest of our days on the river. Typically, we spend a few hours on the water in the morning, sometimes stopping for a great hike or a refreshing swim.

At lunchtime we pull over to a sandy beach and enjoy a delicious picnic. After feasting and relaxing on the beach (or perhaps a game of Frisbee or horseshoes), we get back in our boats and watch the desert panoramas slowly develop in-between bursts of thrilling whitewater.

Mid- to late-afternoon, we stop and make camp. You grab your bags and set up your tent while the guides take care of the kitchen and “living room”­—camp chairs and the site for tonight’s campfire (if permitted). This is the perfect time for you to lounge on the beach with that book you’ve wanted to finish. Before long, you’ll be savoring pleasing hors d’oeuvres and the beverage of your choice—delicious as these refreshments are, they always taste better after a day on the river!   Nap, take an exploratory hike, or just sit back and laugh with friends and family as the guides prepare dinner.

After a satisfying feast, the evening is yours to spend however you wish. Maybe music, stories or jokes will bring us together tonight; maybe the popping of the fire, the whisper of the river and the clarity of the big, star-filled sky will encourage silent reflection on the amazing wilderness that is, for now, our home.

Days 2–3 Flaming Gorge Dam to Gates of Lodore

Your days begin with the morning light illuminating the canyon walls with a warm glow. Fresh coffee and tea are waiting for you when you get up; grab a cup, sit back and take in the glory of the awakening river. Soon breakfast is served, and once you’ve eaten your fill, you’ll pack up your things as the guides break down camp, then our new day’s adventure begins.

Along our journey, we’ll see red rock canyon walls of the Uinta formation, that date back a billion years to some of the oldest sedimentary rock.

After our last big rapid at Red Creek, the river flattens out as we descend into Brown’s Park, where swift currents carry us through Swallow Canyon and into the Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge.

We’ll stop to spend time at the world-famous Jarvie Ranch, a BLM-restored historic site offering visitors a glimpse into turn-of-the-century pioneer life along this stretch of the Green River.

“Brown’s Park is a valley, bounded on either side by a mountain range, really an expansion of the canyon.” J.W. Powell, June 1869

During the evening, we will make camp on the riverside among lodgepole pines and junipers. If our guides don’t arrange a hike, you may want to enjoy a self-guided walk, or perhaps you’d rather just relax and wait for dinner—always a trip highlight, as the day’s adventures stir up a hearty appetite. After our meal the group dynamic of our trip is at its best as we gather around the campfire for nighttime conversation and laughter.

Days 4–8 Gates of Lodore to Split Mountain

Entering Dinosaur National Monument and Gates of Lodore, we start off with a bang as we challenge more exciting rapids: Winnie’s Rapid, Upper and Lower Disaster Falls. Here, Major Powell lost one of his boats and innumerable provisions during his 1869 journey—hence the rapids’ ominous name.

“As Ashley and his party were wrecked here, and as we have lost one of our boats, we adopt the  name Disaster Falls for the scene of so much peril and loss.” J.W. Powell, June 12, 1869

Harp Falls, Triplet Falls, and Hell’s Half Mile are a few other rapids that provide big thrills. Several smaller waves and riffles keep us busy, yet there are enough calm sections to allow us time to sit back and soak in the remote splendor of Lodore, with its soaring red rock cliffs sprinkled with deep green junipers and pinyon pines.

An exciting hike awaits us at Rippling Brook. Our path along this small creek leads through a spectacular side canyon to a pure, spring-fed waterfall — the perfect place for a cooling shower.

We will pass the confluence with the Yampa River, as we wind around gigantic Steamboat Rock and into Echo Park. Here we may stop to visit some intriguing Fremont petroglyphs near the side of the river, or perhaps we will hike to Whispering Cave, passing magnificent sandstone formations along the way.

Back on the river, we travel through some of the oldest exposed rock in the Southwest. As we descend further into the canyon, we have the rare opportunity of seeing various layers that comprise the surrounding cliffs, each layer representing a different stage of the earth’s development. Hundreds of millions of years of geological formation are displayed in the walls around us.

After passing through Whirlpool Canyon, we might hike along beautiful Jones Hole Creek to amazingly well-preserved panels of prehistoric pictographs and petroglyphs.

“The river meanders through the park, interrupted by many wooded islands; so I name it Island Park, and call the canyon above Whirlpool Canyon.” J.W. Powell June 22, 1869

After a bit of flat water, we pick up speed and enter Split Mountain Canyon, where the river’s gradient becomes considerably steeper. Four major rapids deliver plenty of whitewater excitement before reaching the take-out at Split Mountain Campground.

We’ll hop on a shuttle that will take us to the Dinosaur Inn & Suites, where we will check into our accommodation for the night. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax, grab dinner or explore Vernal and the surrounding area.

Days 9–15 Sand Wash to Green River 

After a delicious continental breakfast, we’ll meet our shuttle at the front of the hotel and head to the put-in at Sand Wash.

Welcome to Desolation Canyon! This portion of the river was home to the ancient Fremont Indians. Throughout our journey, we may stop to see thousand-year-old structures or intriguing petroglyphs.

After thrilling rapids, we may stop for a hike. Outlaw history abounds in this remote part of the Green River, and we may even check out an abandoned ranch where Butch Cassidy’s Wild Bunch spent their evenings.

We encounter 90 million years of geologic time as we float through this deep canyon. The canyon walls will soar up to the sky above you, at points Desolation Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon at the Bright Angel Trail.

The whitewater increases with each passing day through the canyon. Through this section of the river, you will encounter 50 Class II-III rapids, including Cow Swim, Three Fords and Coal Creek to name a few.

“Just here we emerge from the Canyon of Desolation, as we have named it, into a more open country, which extends for nearly a mile, when we enter another canyon cut through gray sandstone.” J.W.Powell

Days 16–23 or 25 Green River to Hite Crossing

We begin our final leg of the trip as we enter the red rock wonders of Labyrinth Canyon and Stillwater Canyon. We may explore many magnificent gorges in side canyons such as Three Canyon, hike up to the River Post Office or discover the secrets hidden in Two Mile Canyon, Fort Bottom, Shot, or Water Canyon. We might stop to hike to ancient granaries, thousand-year-old structures and intriguing petroglyphs or a Denis Julien inscription, an explorer who traversed this area even before Powell and his crew.

“There is an exquisite charm in our ride down the beautiful canyon. We are all in fine spirits. Now and then we whistle or shout or discharge a pistol, to listen to the reverberations among the cliffs. We name this Labyrinth Canyon.” J.W. Powell, July 15th, 1869

After the Green winds us through convoluted twists and turns we happily reach the Confluence. Now that the waters of the Colorado River join our party, Cataract Canyon begins, hinting at the whitewater to come. In a slow mix, the murky waters of the Colorado take some miles before they concede to the often clearer Green. As we leave Stillwater Canyon, the Green’s 730+ mile journey from Wyoming continues on what is now the Colorado, mightier than before. Our anticipation grows.

“Late in the afternoon the water becomes swift; an hour brings us to the junction of the Grand and Green. These streams unite in solemn depths, more than 1200 feet below the general surface of the country.” J.W. Powell, July 17, 1869

Next up are the legendary rapids of Cataract Canyon like Mile Long, Capsize and the Big Drops – this section offers plenty of excitement. As we drop into Brown Betty Rapid, the preceding days’ anticipation of Cataract explodes in cool water and huge smiles. Whatever the water level or the type of boat you’re in, the rushes of adrenaline with each new rapid are balanced by the knowledge of your guides’ experience.

“On starting we come at once to difficult rapids and falls, that in many places are more abrupt than in any of the canyons through which we have passed, and we decide to name this Cataract Canyon.” J.W. Powell, July 23, 1869

On the last day, Cataract Canyon ends as we reach the old location of Hite that was flooded by Lake Powell. As we journey out on the reservoir toward Hite Crossing, it’s tough not to imagine the wonders drowned below us. What more could Glen Canyon have shown us! The bittersweet ending is now here. Thankfully, the scenic flight back to Vernal grants a bit of time to reflect on our days retracing John Wesley Powell’s epic journey.

Included in Your Trip Cost

• Skilled professional guide service
• Sleep Kit: Sleep kits consist of a sleeping bag with sheet liner, deluxe 3-inch thick air-filled sleeping pad, pillow and pillowcase.
• 2-person tents, based on double occupancy.  Solo travelers and odd numbers on the booking will have their own tent (no additional cost) and will not need to share.
• Catered Camping: All meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day (Does not include dinner in Vernal on night 7)
• 1 night lodging at Dinosaur Inn & Suites, with breakfast
• Two waterproof bags to hold your gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L; not to exceed 25 lbs. packed). Your sleeping bag and pad will come already packed in one of the two waterproof bags. Your remaining gear, therefore, must fit in one
• One small waterproof bag for camera and other small items you’ll want during the day (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L)
• Personal flotation device (PFD) which must be worn at all times on the river in compliance with insurance requirements and State and Federal regulations
• 12-ounce insulated Klean Kanteen with Café Lid to use for drinks in camp
• A lightweight sarong to help keep you cool, warm or protected from the sun
• Camp chairs
• Scrubba laundry bags & biodegradable soap to allow for on-river laundry
• Eating utensils, cups and plates
• Highest quality inflatable rafts and related equipment
• All transportation from day 1 through the last day, including scenic flight
• Wetsuit–weather dependent (does not include wetsuit booties or footwear of any kind).

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

• Transportation to and from Vernal
• Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
• Dinner in Vernal on night 7
• Dinosaur National Monument Entrance Fee and BLM Feetection plan
• Alcoholic beverages
• Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
• Gratuities

TRIP PREPARATION CHECKLIST

☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit: https://www.oars.com/tpp  

☐ Trip Forms (online): Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation e-mail for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

☐ Reserve flights, shuttles and lodging: Verify with your Adventure Consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable.

☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our 23-minute Whitewater Orientation video before joining us. Watch at https://www.oars.com/experience/safety/ or call 800-346-6277 to request a free DVD. Please don’t leave home without watching.

☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitation you may have as soon as possible. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our essential eligibility requirements.

☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 90 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.

Travel Arrangements

Trip Description

WHITEWATER

The Green River offers splashy Class II rapids and thrilling Class III rapids, interspersed with miles of smooth water that inspire swimming, watching for wildlife, and gazing at the canyon scenery. Despite these slower stretches, there are several fun stretches of whitewater on the Green. You’ll challenge minor rapids plus dozens of smaller waves and riffles.

The Green River is calm before merging with the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park. The Colorado River is not dammed above Cataract Canyon, and its varying water levels at different times of the year provide a whitewater experience for everyone. In the high-water season of May and June, experienced whitewater enthusiasts delight in the huge waves and the famous “Big Drops,” which at times can make even the Grand Canyon’s Lava and Crystal Rapids seem tame. This is some of the biggest navigable whitewater in the U.S. at peak flows. During the fall months, as the water levels drop, this becomes a more moderate run with less intimidating rapids, suitable for most ages and levels of experience.

Boat Options

The number and variety of boats on an OARS trip will vary based on water levels, the number of participants and other factors we take into account when planning your adventure. Please be aware that in doing so we will ask you to share boat time with your fellow travelers. We don’t assign boats, nor can we guarantee exactly which crafts we bring, but trust us to provide you with the best possible mix for you and others on your trip. The following boats may be a part of your experience:
Oar Raft, Inflatable Kayak, SUP, Dory (depending on conditions)

Learn more about the boats on your trip at https://www.oars.com/experience/boats/

Camp Life

After each active day on the river, we pull ashore to camp for the night. Upon arrival, our first task is to unload the boats using a bag line of crew and guests to expedite the process. Individuals then collect their waterproof bags and locate an area on the beach to camp for the night. On the first night in camp, a crew member will give a demonstration on setting up a tent, which you’ll see is quick and easy. The guides will set up the kitchen and central dining/seating area with camp chairs. They will also locate a secluded area away from camp to set up the portable toilet, where privacy is assured.

As dinner is being prepared by the guides, hors d’oeuvres will be served and you will have an opportunity to relax, enjoy a drink if you wish, and reflect on the day with your fellow traveling companions.

In the morning, the first wake-up call will let you know that coffee, hot water for tea or cocoa, juice, fresh fruit and cold cereal are ready on the hors d’oeuvres table. You can fill your mug and grab a bite, then begin to pack up your personal belongings and sleep gear as the guides prepare breakfast. After breakfast is served, the entire camp will be broken down and packing will be completed. The gear will then be loaded onto the boats and we’ll head downstream to see what new adventures await us.

Meals

The meals we serve are hearty and delicious, complete with fresh ingredients and a variety of foods. A typical morning on a multi-day trip might start with French toast, bacon, fruit, orange juice, and coffee or tea. Lunch might be a delicious salad, spread of cold cuts and cheeses with several types of bread, or pitas stuffed with veggies and hummus. There are always cookies and a cooling drink. At dinner, our guides’ cooking skills truly shine—sizzling steaks or salmon, chicken enchiladas, and delicious stir-fry dishes are all part of their repertoire. Dinner generally includes a salad, and desserts are frequent. Hors d’oeuvres are a pleasant surprise before many meals.

Dietary Restrictions

We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we should consider in planning your trip. If you have food allergies or restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs. However, there may be a supplemental menu fee, ranging from $5-$25 per person per day, to cover any increase in our increased costs.

Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan and many allergy-restricted diets without applying a fee. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu. Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our locations, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions. Please let your Adventure Consultant know if you intend to do so.

We cannot guarantee that cross-contamination from allergens will not occur during meal prep, and reserve the right to refuse service to anyone as it relates to safety, including the potential for a medical emergency caused by a severe food allergy. We recommend that anyone who has had an allergic reaction, be it mild or severe, secures an Epi Pen (or equivalent) for the trip. Also, due to the constraints of cooking for a large group in a wilderness setting, availability of ingredients or specialty items in remote locations, and limited packing space, we are unable to cater to dietary preferences (likes or dislikes).

Beverages / Alcohol

We provide fresh water and an assortment of soft drinks, including sodas, sparkling water, fruit juices and lemonade. Utah’s commercial outfitters may not provide any type of alcohol for their guests. You may bring your own supply of beer, wine or liquor in non-glass containers. If you choose to bring your own drinks (other than what we provide) or alcoholic beverages, please let us know in advance. If possible, personal drinks should be brought to the pre-trip meeting and given to the trip leader at that time. Personal drinks can also be brought to the warehouse the morning of the launch if not purchased in time for the pre-trip meeting. Drinks for the lower section of the trip can be left at the warehouse during the first leg of the trip. For your safety and the safety of others, alcoholic beverages are limited to camp.

Beer is available in grocery stores and gas stations. For wine and liquor, you will need to go to the Utah State Liquor Store. The hours are 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday – Saturday in the spring and 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday – Saturday in the summer. They are closed on Sundays and holidays, including Pioneer Day (June 24). For further information and to check what beverages are available, please visit their website: abc.utah.gov/.

Smoking/Vaping

OARS is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our guests and for our staff. We ask that smoking of any kind be done away and downwind from other trip participants.

Cannabis

We are obligated to adhere to the regulations established by the managing agency with jurisdiction over the area in which our trip operates. Use of marijuana on federal lands, whether it be medicinal or recreational, is illegal and therefore we ask that you refrain from bringing it with you on your OARS trip.

Drinking Water

We carry sufficient drinking water along with us to provide for your needs throughout the trip. Water jugs are accessible in camp, at lunch time and before hikes for filling personal water bottles. In some cases, we will re-supply water jugs with water filtered through a purification system we provide. (No iodine is used in the purification process.)

Hiking

The opportunity to explore the area will depend on several variables, such as the amount of time spent in the boats (often 4-6 hours per day), the time it may take to break camp in the morning and to reach our next camp in the afternoon, other groups in the area, weather and more. We make every effort to provide guided excursions to nearby points of interest, some of which are brief walks while others are long hikes requiring more planning. The trip leader must consider the overall ability of the group when deciding what hikes to offer. In anticipation of doing some side exploration during your trip, remember to bring a water bottle and lightweight shoes that are comfortable for walking on uneven terrain. All hikes are optional so you can choose to relax by the boats or in camp instead. If you are an avid hiker, please let your Adventure Consultant know prior to your trip so the trip leader is aware.

Fishing

If you are going to fish on your OARS trip you will need to purchase the correct fishing license(s) for your trip. In Utah, youth under 12 do not need a fishing license. Adults can familiarize themselves with local fishing regulations, and purchase a three-day, seven-day or annual Utah permit online at www.wildlife.utah.gov.  You can also purchase a license at the Vernal Wal-Mart which is a 5-minute drive from the OARS warehouse. You need to bring your own rod, tackle, and/or bait*.

*Fishing rods must be collapsible, and have a hard case. Please tell your guide about your fishing gear at the pre-trip meeting so they can plan adequate storage space. All hooks must be de-barbed in deference to the endangered native fish in the river which must be released immediately if caught. Additionally, if a hook is swallowed, you must cut the line at the mouth. Do not try to dig out a swallowed hook on a native fish. Threatened or endangered species must be released immediately, while invasive species may not be released.

The Portable Toilet

While the idea of a river trip is appealing to most people, many are inhibited or reluctant because of modesty or uncertainty. To minimize our impact, we carry out all solid human waste and use a portable toilet system that is set up each day at camp in a secluded location a discrete distance from tent sites. It is essentially a toilet without plumbing and is available from the time you pull into camp each afternoon until you leave camp the next day. Toilet paper and a convenient hand-washing station are provided.

We also carry a small container called the “day tripper” that can be easily accessed during the day should the need arise. It is a personal disposable toilet, which includes an odor-proof transport bag, chemical solidifier and odor eliminator, toilet paper and an oversized hand wipe.

On popular stretches of wilderness rivers, the common refrain is “dilution is the solution to pollution.” We practice this approach by urinating in the river during the day.

Bathing

Bathing is allowed in the Green and Colorado Rivers, but must be done with biodegradable soap. It is not, however, allowed in any of the side streams that feed into the river. If you plan to bring soap, we recommend Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s, which can be purchased in most stores that have a camping section. Disposable anti-bacterial towelettes (Coleman Swash Cloths, baby wipes, etc.) are good alternatives to submersion in the river and are especially convenient.

Menstrual Cycle

Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. You can use sandwich-sized Ziploc baggies during the day to store products while you are on the river or hiking. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of in the trash at lunch or camp. We provide some menstrual products on most trips for emergencies.

Cameras

We provide a small waterproof bag (17” tall x 9” diameter—approximate sealed size) to hold your camera and other items you might need during the day. While these bags are designed to be waterproof, you may wish to place your camera in a zip-lock plastic bag or waterproof casing for additional protection. We also strongly recommend you take out a rider on your homeowner’s policy to cover your camera—especially if it’s fine equipment. Make sure to bring additional memory cards, batteries and any other extras you will need.

Electronics & Technology

The use of electronic devices, especially music players and flying drones, on your trip may represent an intrusion into the wilderness experience of your fellow guests. We ask that you be mindful of the impacts to others and respect the wilderness nature of the trip. Please bring headphones if you intend to listen to music during the trip and leave your drone at home*.

Many of our guests travel with their smartphone even though there is no cell service. On a trip like this, there is always the risk of water damage to smartphones and other electronic devices, even when they are stowed in a dry bag. If you intend to take your phone with you on the river, consider investing in a small, waterproof case just for your phone.

*The use of drones is prohibited by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management while on the river.

Power Sources

We are not able to provide a power source for powering or recharging devices. To keep cameras, phones, GPS, a CPAP and other devices working you may need spare batteries or portable power. Options include compact portable solar panels that can recharge devices directly, portable power banks that store power, or a combo unit that can be charged before the trip and recharged with a built-in solar panel. Solar panels must be designed to withstand outdoor elements and fit in your dry bag (roll-up or no larger than 12” x 12”). Keep in mind direct sunlight in a river canyon may be limited and even non-existent at camp (mornings and evenings).

Communication

Once you are on the river, there is limited communication with the “outside world.” Cell phone service is not available. Our guides carry a satellite communication device for emergency use. They can call out, but we cannot call them. The trip leader will periodically check in with our office. If someone needs to contact you about an emergency at home, they should call our office (800-346-6277). If possible, we will relay the message to you. Keep in mind it could be several days before the message actually reaches you. For your family at home, before you depart on your trip you should define what you consider to be an emergency and provide them with instructions to call our office in the event one occurs during your vacation.

Wildfires & Smoke

Fire activity frequently impacts the air quality on our trips, and occasionally wildfires may be present in the immediate vicinity of where we’re traveling. Smoke impacts are more likely in the latter-half of the summer season, so those with asthma or other respiratory conditions may wish to steer clear of this time frame. In general, we will not cancel a trip on account of smoky conditions, except in cases of clear danger to life or property. Necessary changes to logistics and/or destination may occur with very short notice as fire conditions are constantly changing. We will do our best to keep you apprised of excessively smoky conditions that can be foreseen for your upcoming trip, but we also encourage you to stay informed about local fire activity: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/.

Our standard cancellation terms & conditions apply should you choose to cancel due to environmental conditions resulting from a wildfire near to where our trip operates. Please review our Terms & Conditions section in this document, below. Furthermore, we recommend you consider investing in a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan that provides you the ability to “cancel for any reason” should you feel conditions from a nearby wildfire may result in you canceling your reservation.

Firearms
Our guides do not carry firearms on our trips, and in most cases, are prohibited from doing so by the managing agency. As a matter of preference, we ask all our guests to kindly leave your own firearms at home or in your vehicle.

CPAP Machine

If you require the use of a CPAP machine and intend to bring one with you, be sure to alert your OARS Adventure Consultant prior to your trip to let us know the dimensions of the machine, description of battery(s), and any protective case(s). Travel-sized CPAPs are readily available and often come with a battery kit. You must assess the power needs of your CPAP and bring the battery(s) needed to operate it for each night of your travels. We’re able to accommodate the transportation of your machine and accessories on the trip in metal dry boxes or soft dry bags; however, please understand that despite efforts to protect your equipment we can’t guarantee your machine and accessories won’t suffer water or impact damage and therefore we recommend additional protective case(s) for your machine & accessories.

Weather

You may want to check one week prior to your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast. We recommend the following website: www.wunderground.com for weather in Vernal, UT.

Average Air and Water Temperatures

Water Levels & Temperature

The respective flow on the Green River is the story of human impacts on a very distinct watershed. The Green River’s headwaters lie in the Wind River Range of Wyoming, and its stream is repeatedly blocked and diverted, most significantly by the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, not far upstream from Dinosaur National Monument. Thus, its flow is determined by reservoir releases. The Green also will spike in the spring and early summer as the controlling agency at Flaming Gorge Dam releases water to make room for inflow. Peak releases from Flaming Gorge on the Green usually occur between mid-May and mid-June, but can vary widely from early May and into July. The Green River continues on until the confluence with the Colorado River. The flow of the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon is generally unregulated, meaning no single reservoir controls the water level. Peak run-off through Cataract Canyon usually occurs between mid-May and mid-June, but can vary widely from early May and into July. High water trips equate to a more intense whitewater experience and a high level of physical fitness is recommended. Water temperatures are coldest during the high water period and rain gear and warm synthetic clothing will be required. In reality the water is quite cold even in the summer, but lower flows and warmer air temperatures mitigate the risk of hypothermia.

Getting Ready

River Runners Responsibility Code

1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.
2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.
3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.
5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.
6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.
7. No drugs or alcohol prior to, or during, your trip; alcohol is allowed in moderation in camp on overnight trips.
8. Minimize your impact on the environment.
9. Wear the OARS-issued and properly–fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when in the boats or swimming. Wear a helmet when required.
10. Your children are your responsibility!

Packing for Your Trip

Click on this link for helpful information about packing for your trip: https://www.oars.com/video/pack-river-rafting-trip/

The information below is subject to when your trip takes place. The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.

Clothing

During the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and synthetic or merino wool shirt as a base layer. Additional layers for sun protection or insulation can be added and subtracted depending on the weather, temperature and how wet you’re getting in the rapids.

In camp—When the weather is warm, lightweight cotton pants/skirt or shorts and shirt make great camp wear.   Anytime the forecast calls for cool evenings and cold nights, a dry set of long underwear is the perfect base layer under long pants and a fleece sweater.

Footwear

During the day—The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes and won’t come off in swirling current. A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too. Sport sandals with a heel strap are a good option, especially on rivers with sandy beaches. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco® at www.chacos.com, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.

In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to the risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand or stepping on a sharp stick. The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes. It’s nice to put on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water. Flip flops or slip-on sandals are OK for wearing in camp only. Please note: If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first!

Headwear

During the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection. Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.

In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a beanie-style hat to wear in camp. They are the perfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets.

Hot Weather Trips

During summer months, conditions on the river may be hot and sunny. These trips require less gear than spring or fall trips, but thoughtful packing is still required. Protection from the sun and heat will be critical to your enjoyment and health while on the river and during side hikes. To protect yourself from the sun’s rays, consider bringing long-sleeved shirts and pants.

A good way to keep cool is with a sarong or long-sleeved cotton shirts. Old collared dress shirts work well. They can be soaked in the water and worn in the raft or carried on a hike for later use. This method of evaporative cooling is very effective. Bandanas are another useful item that can be used in this manner. Camp-wear should be made of cotton and be loose-fitting. A combination of shorts/skirt and a lightweight top is ideal for staying cool on hot afternoons.

To Avoid Being Cold

Synthetic or merino wool long underwear is a must-have on any river trip. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bag or daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weather a rain jacket and pants work better than a wetsuit, because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold, or when you’re going through whitewater, then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.

Something warm for your top & bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your base layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.

Spring Trips: This is surely one of the most beautiful months to be on the Green and Colorado Rivers, but spring can also produce some surprisingly chilly times. The sun is not far enough North in the sky for its warming rays to reach down into the river canyon for as many hours a day as it does in the summer. This means more shady areas, fewer sunny ones. Therefore, when you are splashed (drenched) going through the rapids and you’re in a shady area, you will get very cold unless you are prepared.

Raingear

Rain gear protects you from rain, wind and the splash of the rapids. It is one of the essential items that all guests should have no matter what time of year you are traveling. Look for a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended as well as good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists and ankles. Do not bring a rain poncho as it cannot be worn under your PFD.

Sun Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Light-weight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs.

A hat, sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses are also a must. Rheos, the official sunglasses sponsor of OARS guides, offers polarized floatable nautical eyewear with 100% UV protection. Use promo code OARS15 to save 15% on any purchase from The Nautical Eyewear Collection.

Bugs & Mosquitoes

Bugs and mosquitoes can be very bothersome at times in certain areas on the Green and Colorado, particularly after high water drops. Though this happens at different times every year, it is typically in June to mid-July. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent and a head net. Long sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times.

Sleeping Gear

We supply a professionally laundered sleeping bag, sheet liner, pillow with a freshly laundered pillowcase, sleeping pad, ground tarp, and a 2-person tent.  The complete customized sleep kit that we provide is designed for your comfort and maximizes available luggage space. Our sleeping bags are degree rated for the season and are 33” x 84,” which is longer than the normal (80”).

Suggested Packing List

Equipment and Personal Items:

☐ Two 1-liter water bottles: durable and reusable, insulated bottles recommended for trips in hot climates to prevent water from becoming too hot to drink
☐ Locking carabiner (for clipping a water bottle or personal dry bag into a raft or inflatable kayak
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing extra batteries)
☐ Sunglasses (preferably polarized such as Rheos floatable eyewear www.rheosgear.com) with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Small, quick-drying towel
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Toiletries, including biodegradable soap (such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities

Footwear:

☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco® chacos.com)
“Aqua socks” strongly discouraged
☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers: for hikes or in camp
☐ Hiking socks

Clothing:

☐ Long-sleeved shirts: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap – flexible enough to fit under your helmet
☐ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant) A hooded jacket with secure closures is recommended
☐ Swimwear / Trunks: 2-piece suits recommended for women. Tankinis and board shorts are a great option
☐ Underwear
☐ Shorts: 1-2 pair
☐ T-shirts/tops: 1-2
☐ Synthetic or merino wool long underwear: 1 set top & bottom (light-, mid- or expedition-weight depending on the time of year, weather, location)
☐ Jacket: fleece or down/synthetic fill puffy (depending on the time of year, weather, location)
☐ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for season. Cotton recommended for hot weather trips. Women may prefer an athletic skirt or dress

Additional Essentials (depending on weather):

☐ Wetsuit booties and/or neoprene, wool or synthetic socks (for wearing inside your river shoes)
☐ Fleece top & bottom
☐ Warm hat and gloves: synthetic or wool
☐ Extra set of synthetic or merino wool long underwear top and bottom
☐ Neoprene paddling gloves

Optional Items:

☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Sarong:useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc
☐ Small day pack, waist pack or hydration pack for side hikes
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable towels
☐ Small bags: stuff sacs, zip locks or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Large empty bag: laundry bag, pillow case or similar for putting clothes into after your trip
☐ Ear plugs
☐ Binoculars
☐ Splash jacket and pants
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up Urination Device

Find all the gear you need for your trip online in the OARStore + 15% of your purchase helps provide under-resourced youth with outdoor adventure experiences.

Local Outdoor Equipment Stores

Basin Sports – 511 W Main St, Vernal; (435) 789-2199

Sportsman’s Warehouse – 2015 W, US-40, Vernal; (435) 789-5800

Hibbett Sports – 1495 W, US-40, Vernal; (435) 789-0555

Packing Your Gear

At the pre-trip meeting each person will be given one large waterproof bag (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L), for your clothing and personal items. A second bag for your sleeping gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, ground tarp, sheet and pillow) will be packed and waiting for you. These two bags will be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents are stowed separately. We also provide a small waterproof bag for day use where you can keep items such as raingear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L). The bags are cylindrical in shape and pack from the top. Please pack light, and keep in mind that river attire is casual: comfort, convenience and boat space take precedence over style. At the end of the trip, you will return to Vernal with your waterproof bags, where you will be able to unpack your gear before your trip home.

Extra Luggage

We recommend you take on the river only what’s absolutely necessary. Keeping gear to a minimum ensures it will fit into the waterproof bags we supply and reduces unnecessary packing and unpacking in camp. If you do have extra luggage you will need to store it in your vehicle.

Valuables

We recommend that you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses and cell phones, we suggest putting them in a zip-lock bag at the bottom of your waterproof bag with your clothing.

We are unable to store any personal belongings that don’t accompany you on the trip.

Gratuities

Tipping is appreciated by our staff. If you are wondering how much to tip, you may consider that we operate in a service industry with a host of behind-the-scenes contributors in addition to the guides on your trip.  In general, we suggest a gratuity based on 10 – 15% of the trip cost.  It is customary on OARS trips for gratuities to be given to the Trip Leader, in the form of cash or a personal check, who will then distribute appropriately amongst all the guides and support staff.

Something Voluntary

In reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to Utah Rivers Council, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to Utah’s rivers and clean water sources. One-hundred percent of these funds go directly to Utah’s rivers and your contribution is tax-deductible. This donation is voluntary and may be removed from your invoice if you choose not to participate. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.

Helpful Links

Gear up in the OARStore where 15% of all purchases help fund outdoor adventures for under-resourced youth
www.oars.com/OARStore

Shop for the latest in top-quality clothing, footwear & outdoor gear
www.rei.com

Suggested Reading List
www.oars.com/blog/utah-reading-list-green-and-yampa-river-region/
www.oars.com/blog/essential-utah-reading

Additional information on Dinosaur National Monument
www.nps.gov/dino

Terms & Conditions

Reservations and Deposits

A $1000/person deposit is required at the time of booking. Deposits may be made by check, money order or Visa/Mastercard (American Express and Discover incur a 3% processing fee). Prices are in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. 

Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days prior to the departure date will be canceled without exception.

Cancellations and Refunds

Your deposit is fully refundable, less a 3% processing fee, for 7 days after you book when you submit a deposit 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.

If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.  We regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest or personal emergencies.  There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan (see Travel Protection below).

Please note that different deposit/cancellation policies may apply for charter groups. Refer to the group organizer’s confirmation e-mail for details.

Canceled Trips

OARS reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate.  In such instances, we will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure. Do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements unless you have spoken to your Adventure Consultant regarding the status of your trip.

If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less a 5% service fee plus any nonrefundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers, however we can’t guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.

Transfers

If you transfer from one trip to another within the same season, there is a $50/person fee up until 120 days prior to departure. You may choose to make a one-time transfer of your payments to a credit account for use during the following season, which incurs a $100/person fee up until 120 days prior to departure. Transfers made after this time will be treated as cancellations.

Medical

Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.

Travel Protection

Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel your reservation after the rescission period, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan. A travel protection plan can reimburse you for non-refundable payments for cancellations due to covered medical reasons; and trip participants must understand that in the event of illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult and expensive. For complete details and to purchase the plan we highly recommend, visit: https://www.oars.com/tpp  

Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.  Coverage does not take effect until the plan premium has been paid. 

Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote here: www.oars.com/tpp

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

Liability Release / Assumption of Risk

Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release/assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.

Responsibility – An Important Notice

O.A.R.S. Canyonlands, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services, and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and wellbeing of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests – 6 for gourmet, craft beer and wine trips), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept guests weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced at accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time. 

OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected.  To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees.  We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others.  Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice.  Upon advancement of deposit the depositor agrees to be bound by the above recited terms and conditions. OARS is an equal opportunity provider.