Whitewater Raft Through Red Rock Castles And Canyons At This Iconic River In Utah

We all know about the Grand Canyon — one of America's greatest natural wonders — the holy grail for hikers, nature photographers, and adventure-seekers. But few know about Canyonlands National Park,  Utah's largest and most underrated national park, with incredible canyons that rival those in Arizona. For adventure seekers, if you venture down the Colorado River between Moab and Lake Powell, you'll find Cataract Canyon, an astounding gorge set against red rock fissures, with incredible rapids.

This remote part of Canyonlands National Park is relatively untouched due to its inaccessibility, meaning that you'll run into very few tourists in this neck of the woods. The journey to Cataract Canyon may be tricky (a single road links the park to the canyon) but it's worth the effort, as you'll earn some real peace and solitude in one of the most picturesque parts of the American Southwest.

If you make it to Cataract Canyon, it's because you've heard there's an adventure to be had there. Viator makes this somewhat treacherous journey a little more convenient with numerous tours of the canyon. On the Viator Cataract Canyon Rafting Adventure, you'll experience an unforgettable rollercoaster ride through the white-water rapids, some of which have spine-tingling names such as Big Drop and Hell-to-Pay. The tour begins on a rigid hull inflatable boat, which motors through the quieter, more scenic parts of the river before entering the rapids on an adrenaline-filled journey down the river. Fear not, there is a seasoned guide during this entire adventure who is trained for all occasions.

Eventually, you'll reach calmer waters, and your boat will pull up to the riverbank, with sections that are perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Your guide will also provide you with interesting details about the history of the park and canyons. Lunch is included on the expedition, so you can take care of relaxing after a heart-pounding journey down the river. Here, you can truly appreciate the beauty of the red-rock canyon. There is also an overnight option which includes a night of camping by the river after hiking to a beautiful waterfall in the area.

Whitewater rafting through Cataract Canyon isn't all a white-knuckle experience, you'll also discover beautiful scenery and the tranquility of nature amongst 300-million-year-old geological formations. At night, the sky lights up in a spectacular show of stars. Some stunning hiking opportunities also await those who seek it, with trails where you'll discover Anasazi petroglyphs and natural spires made from sandstone. You may also discover rock art left behind by Native Americans who once inhabited the area. 

If you do a multi-day rafting excursion, some opt to take a scenic flight back to the starting stop, Moab, with the 45-minute return journey being a spectacular way to view the canyon from above. The best time to make the trip to Cataract Canyon is from May through June, as this is when the waters are highest, ensuring an exciting, adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience. Who really needs the Grand Canyon when Utah's landscape awaits?