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Music

Jammin’ in Lodore – 5 Days

Join OARS and professional musicians Joe Craven & members of Painted Mandolin for a musical journey down the Green River through the Gates of Lodore in Utah.

Location

Utah & Colorado

Date

September 7, 2027 - September 11, 2027

From

$2299

If you love the thrill of whitewater and the magic of live music in an unforgettable setting, then Jammin’ on the Green is your perfect escape. Combining the Green’s splashy Class III rapids with towering canyon walls, incredible riverside camping, and nightly jam sessions led by talented musicians, this one-of-a-kind trip is an unforgettable blend of adventure and song.

Featuring

Painted Mandolin: Matt Hartle, Joe Craven, Larry Graff, Dan Robbins

Painted Mandolin blends original compositions with reimagined roots music, exploring a wide range of styles while giving a nod to the musical spirit of Jerry Garcia. The band features Joe Craven—percussionist and fiddler with mandolinist David Grisman and Jerry Garcia in the Garcia/Grisman project (1990–1994)—along with founding members Matt Hartle and Larry Graff, plus bassist extraordinaire Dan Robbins. Together, they create a vibrant, acoustic-driven sound using guitars, banjotar, mandolin, fiddle, hand and mouth percussion, and upright bass. Their music is a lively mix of tradition, memory, and fresh improvisation—something Jerry himself would have appreciated, and a favorite among like-minded fans. We think you’ll love them, too. Learn more at www.paintedmandolin.com.

About This Trip

The Essential Dinosaur National Monument & Green River Reading List
Rafting the Green River through the Gates of Lodore in Dinosaur National Monument, Utah

Imagine a floating music festival where you’re both a student and a star, jamming alongside fellow travelers in one of the most beautiful river canyons in the West. Whether you’re a beginner, seasoned player, or simply a spectator, this trip is all about sharing acoustic roots music—from blues to bluegrass, Americana, and even a few Grateful Dead tunes. You’ll receive a digital songbook to keep, packed with folk classics to inspire you long after the trip. If you play, bring your favorite acoustic instrument—guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, ukulele—or add some rhythm with egg shakers or hand drums. Small accordions, harmonicas, and wind instruments are welcome, too! Interested in joining in on the fun but have never played before? No problem—we’ll help you borrow an instrument and get started. As Joe says, “Learn two chords, start strummin’… and you’re off & runnin’!”

Between jam sessions, we’ll raft the Green River through the heart of Dinosaur National Monument, navigating fun, splashy Class III rapids and drifting through towering red rock canyon walls sprinkled with deep green junipers. Each night, we’ll pull up to stunning riverside campsites, where guides will prepare incredible meals to fuel our days of music and adventure. Picture yourself playing under the stars, the sound of the river mingling with melodies, and waking up to fresh coffee and the sun rising over the canyon walls. With expert guides leading the way, delicious riverside dining, and the magic of music bringing it all together, this trip is the perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and wilderness renewal.

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