John Wesley Powell Retrace

8, 16 or 24 Days See dates & prices 5 1 reviews
Location Utah & Colorado Adventure Level Moderately Challenging Minimum age 16 River Rating Class III-IV (Class V possible during peak flows) From $2999
Book Now Call toll-free 1 (800) 346-6277

Follow in the footsteps of John Wesley Powell and retrace a portion of his historic 1869 expedition on this OARS-exclusive adventure.

In 1869 John Wesley Powell set out with a crew of 10 to explore the uncharted Green and Colorado Rivers from Green River Station, WY to the “impassable” Grand Canyon. Our retrace trip follows a portion of Powell’s original exploration on the Green and Colorado Rivers. We first journey through Flaming Gorge and Lodore, Desolation, Gray, Labyrinth, and Stillwater Canyons on the Green River. Eventually, we join the mighty Colorado River and tackle the storied whitewater of Cataract Canyon before reaching the take-out at Hite Crossing on Lake Powell, just upstream from Grand Canyon. 

Thanks to our unique collection of permits on the Green & Colorado Rivers, OARS is the only outfitter that can make this once-in-a-lifetime retrace trip a reality. We offer this trip as a complete 24-day experience from Flaming Gorge to Hite Crossing on Lake Powell, or you can opt to partake in either the upper or lower sections, as well.

Trip Highlights
  • Experience the legendary Green and Colorado Rivers by raft or dory 
  • Discover the backstory of John Wesley Powell’s remarkable journey with the help of our knowledgeable river guides
  • Explore Utah’s most remote and beautiful river canyons
  • Hike side canyons and visit ancestral Puebloan cultural sites & historic landmarks
  • Unparalleled access to Dinosaur National Monument & Canyonlands National Park
  • Scenic return flight to Vernal, UT

What to Expect

Itinerary & Map

Itinerary at a Glance

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

The Day Before Your Trip

The evening before your trip, we’ll meet for a pre-trip orientation in Vernal, UT. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and trip leader, and ask any last-minute questions.

Day 1

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.

“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

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 beach and enjoy a delicious picnic. After feasting and relaxing (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 meal, 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

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.

Continuing downstream, we’ll see red rock canyon walls of the Uinta formation that date back a billion years to some of the oldest sedimentary rock. Once through Flaming Gorge, swift currents carry us through Swallow Canyon and into 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’ll camp 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 – 7

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

Later, Harp Falls, Triplet Falls, and Hell’s Half Mile provide more 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.

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

As we descend further into the canyon, we travel through some of the oldest exposed rock in the Southwest and have the rare opportunity to see impressive cliffs where each layer represents a different stage of the earth’s development. Hundreds of millions of years of geological formation are displayed in the walls around us.

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

“What a view! The river cuts the mountain to its center, splitting the ridge for six miles, then turns out of it. All this we see where we stand on the summit, and so we name the forge below Split Mountain Canyon.” J.W. Powell, June 24, 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 stopping for the evening.

Day 8

After lunch on the last day, we’ll reach our take-out point at the Split Mountain Campground, officially completing the upper stretch of our John Wesley Powell Retrace trip. From here, it’s a short shuttle ride back to Vernal.

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Vernal, UT

Meeting time

5:00 PM, the evening before your trip

Return

Approximately 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Trip Map

Itinerary at a Glance

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

The Day Before Your Trip

The evening before your trip, we’ll meet for a pre-trip orientation in Vernal, UT. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and trip leader, and ask any last-minute questions.

Day 1

We begin our trip with a shuttle ride from Vernal to our put-in at Sand Wash, getting to know some of the folks who have joined for the full John Wesley Powell Retrace Trip and started their journey at Flaming Gorge. Once we arrive at the river’s edge, we’ll meet the other guides on the trip and receive a safety talk. 

The trip begins on a calm stretch of the Green River. Depending on water levels, we may use the motor assist today as we have many river miles to cover before reaching camp. This is the perfect opportunity to take in the gorgeous canyon scenery and become acclimated to your boats, guides, and fellow travelers.

At lunchtime, we pull over to enjoy a delicious picnic. After feasting and relaxing on the beach, we get back in our boats and watch the desert panoramas slowly develop as we continue downstream.

By late afternoon, we’ll stop to make camp. You’ll grab your bags and set up your tent while the guides take care of the kitchen and “living room”—camp chairs and possibly the night’s campfire (if permitted). Before long, you’ll be savoring pleasing hors d’oeuvres and the beverage of your choice. This is the perfect time for you to lounge on the beach with that book you’ve wanted to finish forever, nap, take an exploratory hike, or just sit back and laugh with friends and family as we prepare dinner.

After a satisfying meal, 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 – 7

Your days begin as the morning light paints the canyon walls with brilliant shades of desert colors. 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. 

This portion of the river was home to the ancient Fremont-era peoples. Throughout our journey, we may stop to see thousand-year-old structures or intriguing petroglyphs.

After thrilling rapids, we 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 whitewater increases with each passing day through the canyon. Through this section of the river, you’ll 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 8 – 15

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 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 the inscription of Denis Julien, 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 of the Colorado River. 

“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. 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.

Day 16

“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 Settlement which was flooded by Lake Powell. As we journey out on the reservoir toward our take-out at 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 us a bit of time to reflect on our days retracing John Wesley Powell’s epic journey.

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Vernal, UT

Meeting time

5:00 PM, the evening before your trip

Return

Approximately 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Trip Map

Itinerary at a Glance

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

The Day Before Your Trip

The evening before your trip, we’ll meet for a pre-trip orientation in Vernal, UT. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and trip leader, and ask any last-minute questions.

Day 1

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.

“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

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). 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! This is the perfect time for you to lounge on the beach with that book you’ve wanted to finish, nap, take an exploratory hike, or just sit back and laugh with friends and family as the guides prepare dinner.

After a satisfying meal, 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

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.

Continuing downstream, we’ll see red rock canyon walls of the Uinta formation that date back a billion years to some of the oldest sedimentary rock. Once through Flaming Gorge, swift currents carry us through Swallow Canyon and into 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’ll camp 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

Entering Dinosaur National Monument and Gates of Lodore, we start 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.

As we descend further into the canyon, we travel through some of the oldest exposed rock in the Southwest and have the rare opportunity to see impressive cliffs where each layer represents 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 accommodations for the night. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax, grab dinner or explore Vernal and the surrounding area on your own.

Days 9 – 15

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.

At points, Desolation Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon at the Bright Angel Trail, and the canyon walls will soar up to the sky above us as we encounter 90 million years of geologic time.

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

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 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 the inscription of Denis Julien, 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 of the Colorado River. 

“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. 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.

Day 24

“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, which 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 Glen Canyon could have shown us! The bittersweet ending is now here. Thankfully, the scenic flight back to Vernal grants us a bit of time to reflect on our days retracing John Wesley Powell’s epic journey.

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Vernal, UT

Meeting time

5:00 PM, the evening before your trip

Return

Approximately 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Trip Map

Dates & Prices

Save $200 to $500 on 2024 departures when you’re one of the first to book by March 31 and request “Premier Pricing” over the phone.

Flaming Gorge – Split Mountain (Upper Section)

2024 DeparturesPrice
May 27$2,999

Sand Wash – Hite Crossing (Lower Section)

2024 DeparturesPrice
June 4$4,899

Flaming Gorge – Hite Crossing (Full Trip)

2024 DeparturesPrice
May 27$7,299
Book Now

DEPOSIT:

$800

Additional Costs:

• Dinosaur National Monument Entrance Fee (upper)
• $40 BLM fee (lower)
• Single Supplement for 24-day trip only: $100

Prices subject to National Park Service review

Ways to Save

To book with one of our special offers, call 1-800-346-6277 or contact us today.

Premier Pricing

Save up to 10% (or more) on most domestic trips when you’re one of the first 4 people to book by March 31st!

The Need-to-Know Info

Trip Details

Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Skilled professional guide service
  • Catered camping: all meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day
  • Expedition equipment, including highest-quality rafts, 2-person shared tent, sleep kit, personal flotation device (PFD), helmet, waterproof bags, camp chair, as well as eating utensils and plates
  • Transfers from the OARS Warehouse in Vernal to the river and back

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Transportation to and from Vernal
  • Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
  • $15 Dinosaur National Monument entrance fee (upper + full)
  • $40 BLM fee (lower + full)
  • Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
People in various watercraft on the Colorado River, including stand-up paddleboards, inflatable kayaks, and oar rafts

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. 

Learn more about the OARS Fleet and the boats that may be a part of your experience: Oar raft, dory, inflatable kayak, and stand-up paddleboard.

After each active day on the river, we pull ashore to camp for the night. Our first task is to unload the boats using a fire-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. 

While you put up your tent, 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 guides prepare dinner, hors d’oeuvres are served. This is 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 lets you know that coffee, hot water for tea or cocoa, juice, fresh fruit, and cold cereal are ready. 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, the entire camp is broken down and packed up. Once the guides have all of the gear loaded back onto the boats, we’ll head downstream to see what new adventures await us.

More info about Meals & Dietary Restrictions can be found on our Trip Resources page.

Average Air & Water Temperatures

Air (Day) °FAir (Night) °FWater °F
June84-10148-5650-72

Water Levels & Temperature

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 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.

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 thrilling stretches of whitewater on the Green. You’ll challenge numerous minor rapids plus dozens of smaller waves and riffles.

The Green River is calm before merging with the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park. This Class III-IV section of the Colorado River is not dammed above Cataract Canyon and can exhibit extreme variations in water levels at different times of the year. In the high-water season of May and June, Class V whitewater is possible during peak flows, and experienced whitewater enthusiasts delight in the huge waves and the famous “Big Drops,” which at times can make even Grand Canyon’s Lava and Crystal Rapids seem tame. This is some of the biggest navigable whitewater in the U.S. at peak flows. Later in the season, from July through October, as the water levels drop, this becomes a more moderate run with less intimidating rapids, suitable for most ages and levels of experience.

Before booking your trip with OARS, there are a few important considerations we’d like you to know about.

  • Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.

  • Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our Whitewater Orientation video before joining us.
  • Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email 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 90 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

Reservations and Payments

An $800/person deposit is required at the time of booking with final payment due 90 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 80 days before the departure date will be canceled.

Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. 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. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.

Cancellations and Refunds

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. 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 that 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. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.

Date of CancellationCancellation Fee
180 or more days before your trip$100/person
179 – 120 days before your trip$200/person
119 – 90 days before your trip$400 per person. The remainder of your payment can be transferred to another trip within the same year (or to a credit account for the following year). No refund.
89 days or less before your tripFull fare

Please note that different deposit/cancellation policies may apply for charter groups. Refer to the group organizer’s confirmation email 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 non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed. 

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 the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable 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 cannot 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 need to move your reservation to a different trip during the same season or to a credit account for the following year, there is a $50/person fee up until 120 days before departure for a one-time transfer of your payment. Transfer requests made 119 days or less before departure will be treated like a cancellation according to the schedule above.

National Park Service Authorized Concessioner

O.A.R.S. Canyonlands, Inc. is an authorized concessioner of Canyonlands National Park and Dinosaur National Monument.

Ancestral Lands Acknowledgement

We respect and recognize that many of the river canyons on state and federal lands where we operate are the ancestral homes of indigenous communities. Where we operate on the Green and Colorado Rivers between Flaming Gorge and Hite Crossing, we acknowledge the territories of the Eastern Shoshone, Ute, Pueblo of Canyonlands National Park, Southern Paiute, and the Navajo Nation.

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