Clean Fun in the Muddy Waters of the Colorado River

Ever been stuck in a lightning storm while on a boat, at night…cold, wet, and hungry, only to wake up the next morning to beautifully lit canyon walls? I have, and chances are, if you’re a rafter, you have too.

Like many activities in the great outdoors, rafting is much more than just a float downstream–it’s a way of life. It’s an attitude, a common thread holding a small community of self-identifying “river rats” together. More than a trip or vacation, rafting is an experience that tests your will power, deepens your knowledge, and creates deep-rooted friendships that will last a lifetime.

On my most recent trip downstream, I found myself on Cataract Canyon, the breathtaking 100+ mile stretch of the Colorado River in Utah. Upon arrival at the Potash put-in in Moab, the hugs and ‘hellos’ were doled out, first beers were cracked, and the rigging was underway of our five rafts, three SUPs, and one ducky (inflatable kayak). With clouds rolling in, we pushed off the boat ramp in the late evening hours and headed downstream.  Suddenly, the skies opened up and we were in for it.  It was dark and cold as we searched for a good spot to camp for the night.

TIP: always leave your raingear easily accessible in a dry box, do not pack away in your personal gear).  And as my good friend Knappy always says, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad attitudes.”  Well, agreed, but still, easier said than done, my friend!

Luckily, that was the only rain we got the entire six days on the river. Nothing but blue skis and party floatillas kept us going for the next several days. Once back on the river, we were right back where we left off, trying to make up some miles from the night before. We arrived at a beautiful beach on River Left and decided to get down with our bad selves and celebrate a great full first day on the river with Disco Night! While the kitchen crew whipped up some marinated steak and spaghetti and meatballs, the costumes came out and the music started bumping.

TIP: bring a printed out menu for each kitchen crew member that lists what is needed for that meal and how many/much of each. Laminate or keep in a ziplock bag to prevent getting destroyed.

On day three, we hit the confluence, the point at which the Green River meets the Colorado.  After camp sign up is complete (which all boaters must do before heading downstream), we landed at Spanish Bottom. Day four was a lovely and relaxing, cloud covered layover day. Happy campers took advantage of a popular hike up to an area known as the Dollhouse.

TIP: this hike takes about 2.5 hours round trip, so if your group decides to hike on a day that you are running rapids, time accordingly.

Day five greeted campers with high hopes of a fun filled day in white water. Once everyone got moving, we packed up camp, rigged to flip, and had our safety talk.

TIP: while the safety talk is being given, double check all PFDs on those who are less seasoned and ensure that the boobies are good and squished! Have another person pull your side straps for extra tightness. 

The rapids of Cataract Canyon vary from class II to class IV, depending on the water lever. With the CFS (cubic feet per second) being low, the notorious Big Drops 1, 2, and 3, were boney with rocks and boulders.

TIP: when coming across big drops, or rapids that are known for being dangerous, always get out and scout the river from a point above, and pick a line before heading downstream.

After a fun filled day of rapids, we landed at a perfect beach for our last night on the river, and the beach games began.

TIP: try making the most of what you have when thinking of games while at camp. Example: Paco Pad Slip ‘N Slide!  Tie Paco pads together and position on a slight incline, ending in the river.  Everyone soaps up, pour a water-filled bucket on the course, and let the games begin!

The last day of Cataract Canyon greets boaters with a few rapids in the morning before heading into Lake Powell. Lake Powell is infamous among rafters, as it is the only thing (approximately 25 long miles) between the adrenaline filled Cataract Canyon and the take-out point.

TIP: it is ideal to have a motor in the group, otherwise, be prepared to row a full two days while on the very still Lake Powell.

Once the boats have been packed away, the coolers have been cleaned, and the personal gear has been divvied up, it is time to once again say ‘goodbye’ to the river. As all rafters know, the transition back into civilization is not necessarily a welcome one. With six memorable, action-packed days behind us, it is time to once again bid farewell to the mighty Colorado River.

So, when it comes to river trips, never forget to pack adequate rain gear, a medical kit, good tunes, great themes, and when in doubt, give the River Goddesses your best smile!

For more information and how to obtain a Cataract Canyon permit, click here.

Category: Water Sports