
Rafting Utah's Canyonlands: Cataract Canyon
The greatest of the western rivers is the
incredible Colorado River, and few rivers match it for scenery, geology,
archaeology, history and wildlife. Raft your way down the Colorado River, deep
into the heart of Utah's Canyonlands National Park, through the legendary
waters of Cataract Canyon. Join Sheri Griffith Expeditions on this journey
through 300 million years of geologic history, abstract sculpted sandstone
spires, and ancient Anasazi rock art. Surrounded by spectacular rock formations
with the look of the Grand Canyon, this river section is the perfect balance
between serene floating, incredible hiking, and fast-moving rapids.
A TYPICAL DAY ON THE
RIVER
NEW: View the new video itinerary of Catarat Canyon! This
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The first morning we meet at our river
complex in Moab, Utah. After a short drive to the river launch site, we'll load
gear on the rafts, get fitted for life jackets and have a safety discussion
before we begin our journey. Once on the river the days are set at a leisurely
pace, allowing us to slow down to a peaceful rhythm, moving with the flow of
the water.
A few days in these more remote canyons
rejuvenates your mind and spirit. Each morning freshly brewed coffee, teas and
juices are available early, followed by a hearty western breakfast. We are
usually on the river by 10:00 am for a great day of adventure and discovery. We
may take a mid-day hike after a fresh buffet lunch or enjoy an impromptu
history discussion sparked by seeing an Anasazi granary tucked up high in the
canyon wall.
Camp is selected from riverside beaches by
about 4:00 pm, allowing time to hike to historical or archaeological sites,
raid the well-stocked library on the raft or maybe just relax by the river
after setting up tents. Tasty hors d'oeuvres are followed by a freshly prepared
dinner. Evenings are for conversation and star gazing.
Midway through the trip there is one day
of exciting and challenging whitewater, followed by serene floating. The last
day we'll motor out of the canyon and onto the edge of Lake Powell and climb
aboard a small charter aircraft for a spectacular flight over Canyonlands
National Park.
There are beautiful beach camps and
with five days there is plenty of time to do all the great hikes and numerous
camp activities. We stop daily for hikes up secret canyons only accessible by
river. Well visit Native American Anasazi ruins, incredible rock
formations and enjoy the solitude.Click here to see
more Cataract Canyon History. |