Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch

If you’re seeking a memorable mix of gentle thrills and stunning scenery, the Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch offers just that. Based in Arizona, this tour combines a scenic drive through iconic landscapes with a half-day of rafting that caters to both beginner and intermediate paddlers. The highlight? An exclusive riverside BBQ lunch at a picturesque ranch, served with views that seem straight out of a Western movie.

One of the best things about this experience is its flexibility—you can choose to paddle yourself or hop into a two-person kayak, making it adaptable for different comfort levels and ages. It’s a practical choice for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a full day of adventure without overstretching or requiring advanced skills. That said, the tour runs for about 7.5 hours, including transfers, so it’s a commitment of your day, but one that’s packed with value and authentic fun.

A slight consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children must meet certain weight and age requirements, which might limit some families. Still, for those who fit the criteria, this trip offers a fantastic balance of adventure, relaxation, and incredible scenery. It’s especially perfect for travelers craving an active day that showcases the stunning landscape of Utah’s nearby red cliffs and the Colorado River’s gentle rapids.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines mild rapids with calm floats, making it suitable for beginners and families.
• Scenic Drive: Starts with a picturesque journey along one of the West’s most scenic highways.
• Flexible Paddling Options: Choose between participatory paddle rafts or two-person kayaks.
• Exclusive Lunch: Enjoy a hot BBQ buffet at a Riverside ranch with views of Red Cliffs Lodge.
• Duration & Timing: 7.5 hours total, with 5.5 hours on the water—check availability for start times.
• Value for Money: At $138 per person, it includes all equipment, guides, a BBQ lunch, and optional pickup—offering good value.

Detailed Review of the Colorado River Full-Day Rafting Tour

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

From the moment your adventure begins, this tour is designed to maximize your time on the water while offering moments of awe-inspiring scenery. The day kicks off with a scenic drive along one of the West’s most famous highways—think red rock formations and sweeping desert vistas—setting an anticipatory tone for what’s ahead.

Once at the river, the rafting experience itself is a blend of mild whitewater and peaceful stretches perfect for relaxing or taking a swim. Our research and reviews indicate that the rapids like Onion Creek and Whites Rapid are gentle enough for beginners but still deliver a thrill, especially when navigating the small waves and currents. Guides often mention the importance of teamwork and safety, with life jackets provided that meet US Coast Guard standards, and all participants are required to wear them at all times on the water.

The Riverside BBQ Lunch: A Real Highlight

Midway through your trip, you’ll stop at a private riverside ranch, exclusive to Moab Adventure Center guests. Here, the atmosphere is laid-back but scenic—picnic tables under a shaded pavilion overlooking the river and red cliffs. The BBQ buffet is a standout feature. Reviewers frequently mention the quality and variety—hot-off-the-grill burgers, chicken, hot dogs, and veggie patties, with generous side salads, giant cookies, lemonade, and iced tea.

Guests appreciate the freshness of the food, and many mention that it’s a satisfying, hearty meal after several hours on the water. The lunch break offers not only sustenance but also a chance to soak in the incredible scenery and chat with fellow adventurers.

Paddling or Kayaking: Your Choice

One of the tour’s many strengths is the ability for guests to pick their preferred method of navigation. Whether you’re confident with paddling or looking for a more relaxed experience, you can opt for participatory paddle rafts or two-person inflatable kayaks. This flexibility means you can tailor the experience to your comfort level—some guests even choose kayaking for a little extra adventure.

Reviews highlight that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive—always ready to offer tips or assist if needed. The choice of paddling style influences the overall experience, but no matter your choice, you’ll enjoy the same stunning views and smooth ride.

What Comes After Lunch?

Post-lunch, the journey continues downstream with more scenic vistas and some mild rapids. White’s Rapid is often a highlight, offering a splash of excitement without overwhelming beginners. The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back, leaving you with a full day of adventure, fun, and picture-perfect moments.

The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Guests consistently mention the professionalism of the guides, with “English-speaking guides” making safety and instructions clear. The equipment, including lifejackets and kayaks, is described as well-maintained and suitable for all participants within the specified age and weight limits.

Most reviews note that the entire experience is well-organized, from pickup (if chosen) to the end of the day. The total duration of 7.5 hours includes transfers, making it a full-day activity. The water time of 5.5 hours offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the river and scenery.

Practicalities and What to Keep in Mind

The tour is priced at $138 per person, which many reviewers feel offers good value considering the included equipment, guides, lunch, and scenic drive. It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children need to meet minimum weight (50 pounds) and age (5 years or older) requirements.

Participants should be prepared for the physical aspect of paddling or kayaking, though the guides are supportive and helpful throughout. The tour is conducted in English, and cancellation is flexible—cancellable up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

The Sum Up

This Colorado River rafting tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting a full day of outdoor fun with a scenic backdrop and a delicious, hearty lunch. It offers an excellent balance between mild adventure and relaxing sightseeing, making it ideal for families, first-timers, or groups seeking a memorable experience without the need for advanced skills.

The value for money is clear—everything from equipment to lunch is included for a reasonable price. The guides’ professionalism and the flexibility of paddling options enhance its appeal. If you’re after a genuine, accessible adventure that showcases the stunning landscapes of Arizona and Utah, this tour checks all the boxes.

For those who prioritize scenic beauty, a mix of gentle water action, and hearty meals, this trip delivers. Just keep in mind the age and weight restrictions if traveling with kids, and be ready for a full day out that leaves you with fantastic memories and plenty of photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The tour features mild rapids and calm stretches, making it suitable for beginners and those with limited rafting experience. Guides are attentive and provide safety instructions.

What is included in the price?
The $138 price covers all necessary rafting equipment, lifejackets, guides, a complimentary water bottle, a hot BBQ lunch at the riverside ranch, and optional pickup if selected.

How long is the entire experience?
The full tour lasts about 7.5 hours, with approximately 5.5 hours spent on the water. This includes transfers, the scenic drive, and the lunch stop.

Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes. Guests must be at least 5 years old and weigh a minimum of 50 pounds. Chest size should be under 52 inches. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I wear and bring?
Bring lightweight, quick-drying clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Wear your lifejacket at all times on the water. You’ll likely want water shoes or sandals that stay on your feet.

Can I choose between paddling and kayaking?
Absolutely. Guests can opt for participatory paddle rafts or two-person inflatable kayaks, depending on their comfort and preference.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, provided children meet the age and weight requirements. It’s an engaging outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by all, with safety as a priority.

What happens if I need to cancel?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows for flexible reservation with “reserve now, pay later” options.

This full-day rafting experience on the Colorado River offers a mix of gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and hearty food—perfect for a memorable outdoor outing in Arizona.