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Trips

Gates of Lodore - With Page Lambert

The Gates of Lodore Experience with Page Lambert

5 Days: River of Tranquility with Page Lambert

The Gates of Lodore on the Green River is one of the most popular trips offered by Sheri Griffith Expeditions.  Join us on a special River of Tranquility trip with writer Page Lambert, who has been partnering with us since 1997, to offer combination rafting and writing journeys. A classic river trip with great hikes, exciting whitewater, beautiful beaches and colorful history, this is also a journey into spectacular wilderness. The scenery is a combination of Rocky Mountain trees and plants, drifting down into dessert canyon country. Abundant wildlife includes deer, bighorn sheep, eagles, trout, and hawks around almost every bend. The Green River through The Gates of Lodore cuts into the great Uintah uplift at Dinosaur National Monument.

We purposely travel slowly, about 10-15 miles per day, giving us ample time to explore the canyons and take in the Green River and its surrounding wildlife. Days are a blend of excitement, wonder, rewarding hikes, peace and tranquility. This special trip includes a lay-over day to allow more time for our creative explorations.

Dates & Rates

2026 Date
  • September 13
2026 Trip Rates

Adult………………..$2,499

 

Includes land transportation to and from the river.

What This Rate Includes
More Information
    • Trip Deposit: 20% deposit required upon reservation. Full balance due 45 days prior to departure.
    • Trip Cancellation Insurance
    • Minimum Age: 18 years old
What Is Not Included in Trip Fares
    • Guide Gratuities by no means required but always appreciated by our guides. We recommend 10-20% of the cost of the river portion of the trip.
    • Transportation to Moab, Utah.
    • Lodging and meals prior to or following your expedition (except where noted.) Click to see a list of quality places to stay in Moab Utah.
    • Government user fees and taxes (about 9% of trip cost.)

Itinerary

Example Itinerary Only

We meet at the Microtel Inn and Suites in Naples, Utah, early the morning of departure. You will be shuttled to the launch site and head downstream to huge stone gates, 1,000 feet high that appear to have split the mountains in two – The Gates of Lodore. Your guides will give you a river orientation and safety briefing before departing on your journey into the canyon between the towering red cliffs of the Gates of Lodore.

 

The trip begins with a gentle float, changing to small rapids above Winnie’s Grotto. We’ll stop there for a brief hike into the alcove. The rapids are more frequent after Winnie’s. Guides prepare a tasty buffet lunch along the riverbank.

 

After lunch we will travel deeper into the canyon. After lunch we load back into the rafts and enjoy several small rapids where we continue to practice our skills before our first major rapid: Disaster Falls. Disaster Falls received its ominous name from the first John Wesley Powell Expedition in 1869. It was here where they lost their first boat, the No Name on No Name Island!

 

Each evening we establish camp on the riverbank. While you explore and relax, the guides set up chairs, and the kitchen, where they prepare fresh, delicious abundant meals. The clean air amplifies a vibrant blue sky, creating a perfect environment for hiking and unparalleled photographic opportunities.

 

Note: Meals are served from a set daily menu, but you are welcome to request, in advance, special dishes or tell us if there are particular things you would prefer not to have.

 

Potential Hiking Opportunities: Pot Creek Canyon, Winnie’s Grotto, Disaster Falls

Example Day – Whitewater Day

Wake to the smell of coffee brewing. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll pack up the rafts and push off shore. The rapids are almost constant now, interspersed with fewer calm stretches. The rapids increase in size and excitement as the river winds deeper into the Uintah Mountains.

 

This morning as you float down the river, catch a glimpse of an inscription left by some of the first river runners as you float towards Harp Falls rapid. Just before lunch we will stop and scout Triplet Falls, our first big rapid of the day!

 

After lunch, we pull over for a short hike near the next big rapid, Hell’s Half Mile, before rafting through the churning whitewater. This rapid was named by one of the most well known river expeditions led by Major John Wesley Powell. His expedition’s goal was to explore the Colorado River and it’s biggest tributary, the Green River, in wooden boats specially built for the adventure. These explorers floated through the Gates of Lodore and named many of the side canyons and rapids on the Green River. After destroying their kitchen boat in a rapid, Major Powell dubbed it “Disaster Falls.” Powell’s expeditions also named such infamous rapids as “Hells Half Mile” and “Triplet Falls.”

 

We’ll pull off and set up camp early in the afternoon. Next to camp is a wonderful waterfall hike up the canyon with great views of the river.

 

Potential Hiking Opportunities: Triplet Falls, Hells Half Mile and Rippling Brook

Example Day – Hiking Dinosaur National Monument

This morning you will eat a hearty breakfast with plenty coffee, tea and hot chocolate; as well as fresh juices, and fresh fruit.

 

This morning the calmer water will give us time to really enjoy the scenery. It doesn’t take long to get to Steamboat Rock, which the boats will eventually travel nearly all the way around. Next we will arrive at Echo Park, where the Yampa joins the Green River.

 

Raft around Steamboat Rock and then around another bend into Whirlpool Canyon and the rapids begin again. Pass by the amazing Mitten park fault, named after Pat Lynch’s mule Mitten. Soon we will enter our next canyon: Whirlpool Canyon. Guests may be able to see Seastacks, which afford geologic evidence of vast seas that covered the area eons ago. Later we will see an inscription made in 1838 by French fur trapper Dennis Julien, and equipment left by dam surveyors who had big plans to build a dam in Echo Park.

 

Just below Jones Hole, we’ll stop and explore the area, hike a bit and try to catch a glimpse of one of the largest herds of bighorn sheep in the area. We’ll find a shady place for lunch and explore some more before heading back to the river. Raft another mile or so farther down river to camp, where there’s a nice sandy beach. Guides will prepare dinner, while you relax on the beach.

 

Potential Hiking Opportunities: Echo Park, Jones Hole

Example Day – Getting wet before going home

After breakfast, we’ll be rafting through some fun rapids. Start this morning’s river travel with the fun, splashy Greasy Pliers rapids. The canyon then opens up into the Island Park area. Enjoy viewing amazing petroglyphs of a very large bison. Raft through Rainbow Park and enjoy swimming in the river before the river slices through Split Mountain.

 

The river opens up into a big basin area, before it slices through the mountains again. There is a dramatic cut through Split Mountain and the river gradient dramatically increases from 1 to 20 feet per mile. Run Moonshine and S.O.B., and a number of other fun rapids.

 

At the end of this great trip you will have conquered 44 miles of river. We will pull over at the Split Mountain Boat Ramp where your bus will be waiting to drive you back to Vernal. The drive is about 45 minutes.

 

Potential Hiking Opportunities: Island Park, Rainbow Park

Maps

Map of Gates of Lodore Rafting

A member of John Wesley Powell’s expedition, named The Gates of Lodore after a poem called, “The Cataract of Lodore,” by Robert Southey.

 

The Canyon of Lodore lies in the upper end of the Dinosaur National Monument, which was created in 1915 by President Woodrow Wilson. In 1938 the park was enlarged to include this incredible canyon and the Yampa River.

Gates of Lodore Information:

River: The Green River

Rapid Rating: Class III-V(Depending on Water Levels)

Put in: The Gates of Lodore Ranger Station, in the Dinosaur National Monument.

Take-out location: Split Mountain boat ramp

River Miles: 45 miles

Number of rapids 11

First to run Gates of Lodore: Fur trapper, General William Ashley in 1825.

Resources

Required Forms
  • Please print, sign and return the required forms (for each person in your party) to our office by email, fax or mail at least 45 days prior to your trip.
Trip Document in PDF's
Helpful Links

Dinosaur National Monument: Dinosaur National Monument protects a large deposit of fossil dinosaur bones–remains of the so-called “terrible lizards” that lived millions of years ago.

Sheri Griffith Expeditions is an Authorized Concessioner of Dinosaur National Monument.

 

Vernal Travel Council: A great resource on Vernal area trails, hotels, and other great things to do in Vernal.

 

River rafting is a lot of fun, but like most outdoor adventure activities, there are also potential hazards. Click here for more information about possible hazards you might experience while whitewater rafting in our beautiful canyons.

Links to Area Information

Vernal Weather

Water Levels

How to get to Vernal

Where to stay in Vernal

What to do other than rafting

Questions About the Trip
If I need to cancel my trip, is there a way to get my money back?

Sheri Griffith Expeditions maintains a no‑refund policy. Because each trip has a limited number of seats, your reservation holds space that cannot easily be filled by another guest. For this reason, all payments are non‑refundable, and this applies in every circumstance.

 

To protect your travel investment, we strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance. For more information about Travel Insurance, click here.

 

If you are unable to participate in your scheduled trip but would like to transfer your reservation to the following year, you may do so for a $300 per‑participant transfer fee, provided the change is made at least three weeks prior to your departure date.

How do I book a trip?

Booking your adventure is simple. The quickest way is to click the book onlinebutton on your trip page or at the top of our website. If you prefer personal assistance, our team is always happy to help, just give us a call at 800‑332‑2439

How much money do I have to put down to secure my seat? What is the payment policy?

For 1‑day trips, full payment is required at the time of booking.

For multiday trips, a non‑refundable 20% deposit is due when you make your reservation, with the remaining balance due 45 days before departure.

 

After your reservation is confirmed, you’ll receive a reservation packet that includes your packing list, travel tips, travel insurance information, a beverage request form, and a guest registration form. Please complete the guest registration form and return it promptly so we can prepare for your trip.

Is it possible for my trip to be changed or canceled?

We make every effort to operate each trip as planned. However, we reserve the right to adjust the itinerary or cancel a trip if necessary due to circumstances beyond our control, including weather conditions, water levels, insufficient reservations, changes in international relations, or other unforeseen factors.

 

If a cancellation becomes necessary, all payments you have made will be refunded. Our financial liability is limited to the amount you have paid to Sheri Griffith Expeditions and does not extend to additional expenses incurred by trip participants.

Do I have to go to the River Trip Orientation? When and where will it be held?

On the evening before your trip, we meet at 6:30 PM (MDT) at the Microtel Inn & Suites in Naples, Utah for a brief pre‑trip orientation. During this meeting, you’ll learn what to expect on your adventure, receive your dry bags, complete the required Assumption of Risk forms, and have an opportunity to ask any final questions.

 

If you are unable to attend the orientation, please let us know in advance so we can make alternate arrangements.

What do we drink on our trip? Should I bring my own drinks? What beverages are allowed on the river?

If you’d like to bring personal beverages, such as soda, beer, wine, or other favorites, you’re welcome to bring them on the morning of departure. We’ll store them in our iced coolers for you.

 

During the trip, we provide a selection of beverages including sodas, water, lemonade and Gatorade mixes, as well as tea, juice, and coffee each morning.

Are tips included in the price of the trip?

Guests often ask about gratuities and what amount is appropriate. If you feel your guides have provided an exceptional experience, you are welcome to leave a gratuity with the Trip Leader, who will distribute it among the crew. While completely optional, a general guideline is 15%–20% of the trip cost.

 

If you plan to tip, please bring cash, a personal check, or ask your Trip Leader for Venmo information—ATMs are hard to find in the backcountry! Checks should be made out directly to the Trip Leader, not to Sheri Griffith Expeditions. 

 

Please note: We are unable to accept credit card gratuities while on the river. If you would like to tip using a credit card, please call our office to complete your transaction.

What physical condition do I need to be in for this trip?

If you’re in reasonably good health and have an adventurous spirit, you should have no trouble enjoying our trips. You don’t need to be an athlete to participate in a river expedition, but please be aware that we are several hours from the nearest medical facility while on the river.

 

If you take medication, please bring an adequate supply and inform your guide about what you’re taking. When you meet your guide, discreetly share any medical conditions or concerns, including allergies such as bee stings.

 

Each guide carries a first‑aid kit and may need to know if certain medications require special storage. Understanding any health considerations also helps us plan daily activities appropriately.

 

Pregnant guests and anyone with heart conditions should obtain their physician’s approval before joining a river trip.

What risks am I facing when I go on my trip?

Sheri Griffith Expeditions has maintained an excellent safety record since 1971. However, participation in any outdoor adventure involves inherent risks, and guests should understand that accidents or illnesses may occur. While our guides are trained professionals and we take all reasonable precautions, we cannot guarantee your safety. Each participant is responsible for exercising sound judgment and remaining attentive during all activities.

 

Environmental conditions, including water levels, weather, and other natural elements, are determined by forces beyond our control and contribute to the risks associated with rafting and camping. Prior to departure, all guests will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk and Release Form acknowledging these conditions. Sheri Griffith Expeditions assumes no responsibility for injuries, loss of personal belongings, or additional time or expenses incurred by trip members.

 

We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance, which can help protect your travel investment, provide coverage for unexpected medical situations, and offer reimbursement should you need to cancel your trip.

I’m unsure of what to do with my vehicle, and I don’t want to lose my keys and other valuables on the river, What can I do?

You are welcome to leave your vehicle parked at the Microtel Inn & Suites in Naples for the duration of your river trip. The hotel also provides a secure room where you may store luggage and valuables while you’re on the river.

 

More FAQs

"This is a fantastic trip! I have experienced this women-only trip twice now and it is terrific. The Sheri Griffith company is excellent, the guides were super and both times the trip brought together amazing women. Rafting, hiking, camping, great food... a fabulous trip start to finish!"

Julie S

“I am grateful for this canyon retreat as it became much more than a river trip for me. I have been searching for a way to return to the land since I was 17 and left the Yampa Valley. Now, thanks to you, I have found a place to feed the primeval need to literally hold ancient dirt and mud and clay in the bowl of my hands, to see how the basic elements of earth, water, and fire come together during creation, to see stars after the moon goes down at night, and watch the canyon walls by day.”

Kaye Roll, River Writing & Sculpting guest

“Lynne and I agreed that the river trip was the greatest and most memorable experience either one of us had ever had in our lives! It will be in our hearts forever and we are so happy that you came into our lives, Thank you, Page!”

Sue, River Writing & Sculpting guest

"This is truly a wonderful adventure—physically, mentally, spiritually. Was so great that our focus was nature, poetry, writing. In spite of sand-in-the-hair, I didn't hear complaints! I will certainly recommend your trips to others. Our co-rafter/writer, my traveling partner, made a number of calls in the car as we drove home, praising the trip to the skies, telling everyone they needed to do it.”

Carol C

"Page, thank you so much for making the rafting trip possible—and wonderful. I've imagined a river trip for years and this exceeded my expectations!”

Libby

Location: Green River, UT
Highlights: River Writing with Page Lambert; Gates of Lodore on the Green River; Fun, Splashy Rapids; Great History
Adults: $2,492.12 (Includes Government Use and Processing Fees)
Trip Length: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Host City: Vernal, Utah
Min. Age: 18 Years Old
Rapids: II–IV (Depending on Water Levels)
2026 Date: September 13
Boats: Oarboats, Paddleboats, Inflatable Kayaks