Full-Day Colorado River Rafting Tour at Fisher Towers

If you’re planning a trip to the stunning landscapes around Moab, a full-day rafting adventure on the Colorado River is a must. This tour is highly rated and recommended by nearly all who experience it, promising a blend of scenic beauty, gentle thrills, and educational insights. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a leisure-minded tourist, this trip offers a taste of Utah’s rugged wilderness with plenty of flexibility.

What we love about this tour is its balance of activity and relaxation — you can take the paddle in your hands or simply soak in the view while a professional guide manages the boat. Plus, the chance to enjoy a secluded lunch on a quiet beach, surrounded by scenery featured in classic western films, makes this a memorable day. That said, it’s worth noting that the trip is best suited for most travelers, but young children under 50 pounds cannot participate, and the full-day schedule requires a fair bit of patience for waiting, especially around meal times.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, film buffs, and anyone craving an authentic outdoor experience in Utah. It’s a great choice for families, groups, or solo travelers who want a mix of fun, learning, and spectacular scenery. Now, let’s break down what makes this trip a worthwhile adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and film-worthy views along the Colorado River and Fisher Towers.
• Flexible options — you can paddle or sit back and relax.
• All-inclusive pricing with lunch, beverages, and round-trip transportation.
• Expert guides with high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Ideal for most travelers, but not recommended for children under 50 lbs.
• Enjoyable for families and groups, with opportunities for swimming and easy paddling.

Introduction: What’s this rafting tour all about?

This full-day Colorado River rafting trip from Moab offers a scenic and gentle ride through one of the most beautiful and cinematic parts of Utah. It’s designed for a broad range of travelers — from adventure seekers to those simply looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Two things stand out immediately: the spectacular scenery—think towering cliffs and classic film vistas—and the expert guidance that ensures safety and fun. The guides are lauded for their knowledge and personable approach, making the day both educational and engaging. Whether you’re paddling yourself or just enjoying the ride, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the river’s geology and history.

One thing to consider is the length of the trip—at about 7.5 hours, it’s a full-day commitment. That means patience for waiting and a good pair of walking shoes for the transfer and potential portaging. The tour’s balance of activity and scenic downtime makes it a solid choice for those wanting a genuine Utah outdoor experience, especially for families, groups, or solo travelers who love nature and storytelling.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transfer

The adventure begins at 378 N Main St in Moab, where you’ll meet your guide and board a comfortable vehicle for the 30-45 minute scenic drive along Hwy 128 — widely regarded as one of the top scenic highways in America. This route winds through breathtaking red-rock formations and dramatic cliffs before reaching Hittle Bottom, the launch site.

Launching on the Colorado River

Once at Hittle Bottom, your group will board your rafting vessel, which is designed for up to 50 travelers. The terrain and water level will influence the trip’s overall thrill, but most reviews note the calm, accessible rapids—classified as Class I and II—making this trip suitable for most ages and skill levels.

Paddling or Relaxing

You’ll be offered the choice to paddle your own boat (with a 48-hour notice for paddle boat requests) or sit back and let your professional guide take the helm. Many reviews, like that of Renae, highlight the guides’ knowledgeable, friendly demeanor, which keeps everyone engaged whether paddling or just soaking in the view.

Scenic Highlights

Traveling through the famous scenery featured in western films, you’ll pass towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and lush riverbanks. Several reviews mention the breathtaking vistas and the informative commentary from guides, who share insights about the river’s geology and the area’s history.

Lunch Break at a Secluded Beach

Midday, you’ll pull onto a quiet, scenic beach for a provided lunch of sandwiches, salads, chips, and beverages. Many reviewers emphasize how memorable this part is — eating on a deserted spot, surrounded by nature, with the river flowing nearby. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, swim, or chat with fellow travelers.

The Return Journey

After lunch, the trip continues downstream, with optional swimming or just floating and chatting. The return to Moab is organized with additional transportation, so you’re not stranded. The entire experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with careful planning ensuring a smooth, enjoyable day.

What the Reviews Say — Real Travelers’ Perspectives

Many happy visitors praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Renae notes Eli’s knowledgeability, while Danielle highlights Liza’s upbeat personality. Multiple travelers mention how guides manage the group well, making sure everyone has fun and stays safe.

The scenery also draws near-unanimous praise. Chris appreciated the calm water levels in late July, making for a relaxing experience. Others like Michael loved the scenery and guide interaction with kids, showing that the trip is suitable for families.

Some reviewers, like Wendy, point out guides’ storytelling skills, which add depth to the experience. Conversely, a few, like the reviewer mentioning the shorter, calmer rapids, note that this isn’t a white-water adrenaline rush but rather a leisurely float.

Lunch receives high marks, with many describing it as simple but tasty and a highlight of the day. The added convenience of round-trip transportation from Moab is appreciated, as it reduces the hassle of organizing your own transfers.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

Starting at 8 a.m. from Moab, the full-day trip runs close to 7.5 hours — perfect for those wanting a full immersion in the river experience without feeling rushed. Since most travelers plan this 77 days in advance, it’s a popular choice, especially in peak season.

Cost and Value

At $138 per person, including lunch and beverages, this trip offers a fair value. The all-inclusive nature means no surprises, and the guides’ expertise adds confidence to the price. Reviews suggest that the experience’s quality matches the cost, especially considering the scenic beauty and professional organization.

Group Size and Safety

Limited to 50 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, avoiding overcrowding. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 50 pounds are not permitted, ensuring safety for the younger ones.

What to Bring

A water bottle is recommended, along with comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. If you want to paddle, call ahead to request a paddle boat with 48-hour notice. Also, consider bringing snacks if you’re concerned about hunger before lunch, as some reviews mention the wait for food could be long.

Cancellations

Flexible policies are in place — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather cancellations are rare but are covered, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund if needed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This rafting trip suits adventurous families, groups of friends, solo travelers, and those interested in scenery and storytelling. Its leisurely pace and gentle rapids make it accessible for most, but it’s not the place for adrenaline junkies seeking white-water excitement. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a relaxed day on the water, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

The Full-Day Colorado River Rafting Tour from Moab offers a compelling way to experience the area’s iconic landscapes from a different perspective. The combination of professional guides, scenic beauty, and inclusive amenities creates a memorable adventure that’s easy to enjoy. It’s a great fit for those who want to combine gentle adventure with cultural storytelling, in a setting that’s hard to beat.

While it’s not a high-octane white water thrill, the quiet beauty and educational moments make this trip well worth the investment. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of wow moments, this tour will serve you well. It’s perfectly suited for anyone eager to see the Colorado River’s stunning cliffs, learn about the environment, and enjoy some quality time in Utah’s wild heart.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, including transfers, paddling time, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges, the rafting tour, cups and water, lunch, a driver/guide, and a professional guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 50 pounds are not allowed due to insurance and safety reasons. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to paddle?
You can choose to paddle or sit back and relax. Paddling boats are available upon request with 48-hour notice.

Are beverages provided?
Yes, beverages and lunch are included, making it convenient and enjoyable.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Embark on this river adventure to see some of Utah’s most iconic scenery, guided by friendly experts who love sharing their knowledge. Whether paddling or relaxing, you’ll enjoy a day that combines nature, culture, and leisure in a way that’s both authentic and memorable.