Archive

The 6 Best Places to Eat in Moab — Our Favorite Places

downtown moab with mountains in the background

Discover the top places to eat with our five-star Moab dining guide. From the best places to eat in Moab to hidden gems, explore a variety of culinary delights. Whether you’re after local favorites or international cuisine, our guide ensures you find the best spots for a memorable dining experience in the area. Let’s dive into the ultimate foodie escapade – because good times in Moab start with great bites!

The BEST Places to Eat in Moab

  1. Zax
  2. Moab Brewery
  3. The Blu Pig
  4. The Broken Oar
  5. Miguels Baja Grill
  6. Thai Bella

📍 Zax

Enjoy hearty food in a relaxed atmosphere at Zax in Moab. Choose from a huge selection of local Utah beers, take a walk on the wild side with the Pickle Fries appetizer, then dig into the famous Zax Burger loaded with bacon and avocado. They have extensive patio seating to take in the views, and are conveniently located on Main Street.

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Facts About the Dolores River in Moab Utah  

Facts About the Dolores River in Moab, Utah

People know a lot of things about the Dolores River. You may know it’s in the southwest area of Colorado. You might be aware that it flows about 250 miles from the San Miguel River, runs through the La Plata Mountains into plunging canyon depths, past the town of Dolores, through Paradox Valley. Finally, at Moab, it connects with the Colorado River. You may also assume that snow melt raises the river level in the spring too. But, did you know that by mid-summer, the river drops and its flow becomes a mere trickle?

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What to Wear River Rafting in Moab, Utah  

What to Wear River Rafting in Moab Utah

You’re riding the river under the perfect blue sky. It’s as good as life gets! But, only if you’ve made a few basic preparations, like taking the kinds of clothes and other river gear you need to bring. That can be the difference between a beautiful day of white water rafting at Moab and an uncomfortable, shivering and/or sunburned episode. So, good job doing your research by reading this information on what to wear rafting. Way to prepare for a great time out on the river!

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Where To Go Rock Climbing In Moab, Utah

Where To Go Rock Climbing In Moab Utah

Moab, Utah, is one of the world’s most famous rock climbing destinations. With seemingly countless options of monumental sandstone towers rising into the sky from the desert floor, the surreal landscape calls out to everyone with a desire for a climbing adventure. Ranging from the easiest to the most difficult, Moab desert towers offer many climbing routes for novices and seasoned climbers alike.

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20 Facts About Moab You Probably Didn’t Know  

Facts About Moab You Probably Didn't Know


The Moab area of southern Utah features some of the world’s most wondrous scenery and spectacular natural features on the planet. The experience of traversing the rugged and exotic Great Basin terrain surrounding Moab is something travelers remember forever. Interested in learning more about Moab before you embark on your exciting journey to the national parklands of southern Utah. Here are 20 fun facts you may not have known about Moab and this mesmerizing region of North America:

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Arches National Park in 4 Seasons – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Arches National Park in 4 Seasons - Arches National Park Weather

The weather at Arches National Park does not shift as much as at parks in the more northern areas of the country, but the seasonal changes do become part of the experience for Utah visitors. Naturally, the heat in the parks farther north is less intense than in Arches during the hottest part of summer, from early July through mid-August. On the other hand, in winter, Utah’s gorgeous Arches park is not as cold as the parks farther north. So, what’s the best time of year to visit Arches National Park in Utah? (more…)

Some Of The Best Petroglyphs In Moab

Top Petroglyph Sites to Visit in Moab, Utah

In the canyonlands of southern Utah lies the picturesque town of Moab, a traveler’s base for many extraordinary adventures that can be had nearby. A top reason to visit in this amazing part of the country is to explore the great abundance of rock art that the area holds. Many of our Moab canyoneering trips feature up close viewing, additional information about the sites and views of lesser known, hidden panels. Book a Moab canyoneering tour to see everything from dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and stunning arches up close and personal with a certified guide. The ancient rock artworks date from as early as 5500 BC. Here’s some information about some of the most popular rock art sites in this part of Utah and where to find petroglyphs in Moab.

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How to Get the Most Out of Family Whitewater Rafting Utah

Plan Your Moab, Utah River Rafting Adventure Today!

Whether you’re planning for a half-day or multi-day Moab river rafting trip, your family will enjoy the float even more if everyone is fully prepared. Here at Red River Adventures, we want your family to get the most out of your Moab rafting trip with us. Here are some things you should know as your family plans your next float trip with us. (more…)

What You Need to Know for Your First Time White Water Rafting

What You Need To Know For Your First Time White Water Rafting

Whitewater rafting looks thrilling in the videos and pictures. It is a great recreational activity ideal for families at any skill level. Take in the breathtaking panoramas from Utah’s splendid rivers, in the expert care of your Red Rivers Adventures expert Moab river rafting guide. Below are some basics that are helpful to know on your first-time whitewater rafting in Moab, Utah.

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7 Things to Do on a Moab Family Vacation With Kids

a girl climbs a ladder through red rocks in moab

If you’re looking for fun and adventure while on a MElevate ab family vacation, look no further! With world-renowned hiking and biking trails, stunning red rock formations, and plenty of activities for kids, Moab is a great destination.

Your Guide to a Moab Family Vacation

Here’s a list of some excellent Moab family activities as well as hotel and dining options to help you build your itinerary for family fun and comfort. A great option for many families is to choose a guided tour so that you can leave the planning to a local! Keep reading for guided and do it yourself options!

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Top 5 Best Hikes in Moab, Utah

Best Hiking Trails in Moab Utah

If you’re looking for some of the best hikes in Moab, you’ve come to the right place. The splendor of Moab’s Great Wilderness draws thousands of nature lovers and adventure seekers to Utah every year. With its amazing hiking trails and breathtaking views, Moab is an unparalleled destination for nature lovers. The world-class terrain is something you will want to explore again and again!

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Tips for Taking Your Dog to Moab

Areas to Hike with Your Dog near Moab

Wondering if Moab is dog friendly? You’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure with your four-legged friend, look no further than Moab, Utah. With its abundance of wide-open spaces and pet-friendly accommodations, Moab is the perfect place to explore with your pup. Here are a few tips to help make your trip as enjoyable as possible for both you and your furry friend. From dog friendly Moab, Utah hikes to dog friendly Moab restaurants this is your ultimate guide to dog friendly areas in Moab.

Moab, Utah Dog-Friendly Hikes

Local laws require dog leashes at all times, and they require you to keep your dog on marked trails. The hiking trails inside the national parks are off-limits for dogs, but there are Moab dog-friendly hikes within a short drive from downtown. Many hikes offer stunning arches and other geological formations that make Moab such a popular destination. Here are some great areas to hike with your dog near Moab:

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Top Things to Do on a Moab Family Vacation With Kids

White water rafting graphic - Red River Adventures Moab Utah

If you’re looking for fun and adventure while on a MElevate ab family vacation, look no further! With world-renowned hiking and biking trails, stunning red rock formations, and plenty of activities for kids, Moab is a great destination.

Your Guide to a Moab Family Vacation

Here’s a list of some excellent Moab family activities as well as hotel and dining options to help you build your itinerary for family fun and comfort. A great option for many families is to choose a guided tour so that you can leave the planning to a local! Keep reading for guided and do it yourself options!

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Moab Weather And More

moab-utah-sky

Ah the weather. Ask me if I thought that I have to be a weather forecaster when I started Red River Adventures and my answer would have been a resounding NO. That however is not the case. I am constantly asked about the weather. From the “what’s it like in (month you’re visiting Moab here) to will it rain tomorrow? As it turns out, the weather is a large part of what I talk about. I’ve got to admit that my weather geekiness goes quite deep and back in fact to my childhood. I grew up on the East Coast and surfed. Weather systems are what makes waves in the east, so early on when not in the water I could be found watching the Weather Chanel and listening to the NOAA radio for the latest updates. Now that I ski, climb, and raft weather plays a huge role in what I do and when.

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4 Things You’ll Get From An Avalanche Class

Avalanche Course in Utah

Do you like to ski, snowboard, or snowmobile? Are you interested in getting into the backcountry skiing? If you answered yes, it is in your best interest to take an avalanche class. Being injured, or worse, maybe avoidable with proper avalanche training.
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Wildlife You Could See on Your Moab, Utah Rafting Trip

Desert Bighorn Sheep

One of the best ways to experience Moab is on a Moab rafting expedition. The white water rafting options on the Colorado River present a magnificent scenery adjacent to the Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. You could experience spectacular wildlife sightings during your Moab white water rafting trip. Our experienced guides at Red River Adventures can help you spot elusive wildlife making it an experience of a lifetime.

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Team Building with a Group Rafting Trip in Moab, Utah

Group Rafting Trip in Moab, Utah

If you are looking for a way to encourage team-building among your family members, friends, or coworkers, then this might take an extraordinary experience. One possible option is whitewater rafting. This is a fun, challenging, playful, and unique group activity that can help you bring everyone closer together. Most teams have gone through traditional team-building activities such as activities around a table or in a multi-purpose room. These can be awkward, frustrating, and boring. This is where whitewater rafting from Red River Adventures in Moab, Utah, can help you and your team come closer together! How can white water rafting Moab help you improve your teamwork?

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Skiing Hokkaido January 2020

Be sure and check out this 3 minute look into what powder skiing and travelling through Hokkaido is all about.

We’ll be retuning each January. Check out out our Japow page for details.

Thanks to Black Diamond, Blue Ice, Smith and Dakine for the support!
This would not be possible without the endless stoke and talent of Pat Clifford, PCEDITS.com

Skiing Hokkaido, the hunt for Japow!

We retuned to Hokkaido in January 2019 and it could not have been better. Unbelievably deep snow, great people, food and culture combine to make the trip something to remember for a lifetime.

Thanks to Black Diamond for the support and Pat Clifford, PCEDITS.com for shooting and countless hours in front of the computer to pull together this edit.

Indian Creek Clinic

Here’s a glimpse of the good times and amazing scenery that makes our Indian Creek climbing clinics so special.
Video by Big Beauty Pitches.

Asahidake deep Japow!

January 24th, 2019 will be remembered as the deepest day that most had ever seen!
Here’s a look at what Japow is all about!

Fisher Towers Rafting

Great for everyone 6 to 60! The Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River is the one day rafting trip to do!

Moab Rafting – Fisher Towers

The Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River is by far the most popular Moab rafting trip. More people laugh, splash and swim their way down this 14 mile piece of the Colorado River than any other stretch. The longer I am in this business the more I come to appreciate just how great a trip it is.
Close to Moab the trip couldn’t feel more remote. Stunting scenery, rapids that are fun but not scary, great riverside beaches and a variety of plants, animals and geologic wonder make this the perfect way to spend a day in Moab.

Everything about this trip just feels right. What I mean by that is this. Right about the time you would wish for something new or different to happen it does. The ride to the put-in, at about 30 minutes, is perfect. The speed with which we get rafts on the water and people into them, perfect. The rafting before we get to lunch, the lunch stop, the rafting after lunch, the spacing of the rapids, the changes in scenery and the drive back to town, all are just right. Not too long, not to short. With water temps during the summer months in the 70’s there is no better place to spend a hot day than laughing, splashing and swimming down the Colorado River!

I have had the opportunity to run most of the 1 day rafting trips in the West. Each time I do I hold the experience up to our beloved Fisher Towers section and compare the trips. Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado all have rivers that are unique and fun. But what I have realized is that although some may have bigger rapids, few if any are more perfect in time and variety than what we have here in Moab.

Come run this gem with us and you’ll see what I mean!

Carl,
Owner RRA

 

We’ve done it again!

We couldn’t be more happy about our 2014 Tripadvisor award. Our past guests say it best. Great guides, incredible trips and memories that last a lifetime are all a recurring theme in our online reviews. Thanks to those that adventured with us and took the time to tell others.

Ouray, Colorado Ice Climbing!!!

There are few places on earth that I enjoy as much as the beautiful mountain town of Ouray. Incredible scenery, friendly people, natural hot springs and, of course ICE!
The Ouray Ice Park is an amazing place to climb. Join RRA for a weekend of Ice Climbing in this world famous venue. All equipment is included through generous support from Petzl.

Here’s the details as always call with further questions or to reserve a spot.

Ouray Colorado! – Clinics

Ouray-sign

Mid-winter clinic
February 1 & 2

  • Difficulty – Easy to Hard | WI2-WI5
  • Days – 2
  • Minimum age – Varies
  • Venues – Ouray, CO
  • Meets – 7:30
  • Dates – Feb 1-2
  • 1 Person $350

Join Red River Adventures for a weekend of Ice Climbing, fun and friends. Ouray, Colorado is one of our favorite places in the world and we couldn’t be more happy to introduce you to this special place. The weekend will feature climbing on a variety of different ice routes and the will be the option to explore the world of mixed climbing and learn about Ice Protection and anchoring. Level of climbing and/or instruction is tailored to your level of experience. All technical equipment is supplied through our sponsors. Lodging and transportation are the responsibility of the participant.
ouray-ice-clinic

Climb Like a Girl – Ice
February 8 & 9

  • Difficulty – Easy to Hard | WI2-WI5
  • Days – 2
  • Minimum age – Varies
  • Venues – Ouray, CO
  • Meets – 7:30
  • Dates – Feb 1-2
  • 1 person $375

RRA is proud to work with Carolyn Parker and her Climb like a Girl program. Carolyn is an AMGA certified rock guide and founder of CLAG. We have been CLAG’ing for almost a decade in Moab, Indian Creek and Ouray. This weekend clinic is always a highlight of the winter. Incredible climbing, the highest caliber instruction and a real sense of community all combine to make these weekends special.All technical equipment is supplied through our sponsors. Lodging and transportation are the responsibility of the participant.

*Guided by Suntoucher Mountain guides.

Feeling the Moab love.

Rock Climbing Moab

We recently had the pleasure of spending some time with the talented artist and returning guest, Cynthia Martin. She joint us last year on a Moab rafting trip. Impressed with the Fisher Towers section she returned this spring to pass some time hiking and Rock Climbing in the Moab area before returning later this August with a group of friends. She is best now as a comic book artist and  illustrator. I couldn’t be more happy that she took the time to do this piece.

New Moab Canyoneering video

We’ve been working on video of our adventures and here’s preview of what we’ve got for our Morning Glory Canyoneering trip.

Moab Rafting with Son-R

This spring we were tapped to help Sperry put together some video for the new Son-R shoes. This video shot on the Fisher Towers section is the result.

Happy Easter!!!!

We are in our 5th week of operations for the 2011 season and it has been fantastic. It’s starting to warm and the Colorado and Dolores rivers are rising.  Utah rafting near Moab is already off to a great start.

So far this season our returning guides have busy. We have had rock climbing clients summit Ancient Art, rafters enjoy our Fisher Towers overnight and day trips and rapelled through our Morning Glory Canyoneering route. The rest of our full time staff of 17 is slowly returning from winter’s spent exploring skiing, grooming, rafting in warmer locations, mushing dogs and seeking higher education. Guides re-training is the first week in May and after that it is full tilt adventure.

So on this Easter Sunday I just wanted to take a second to wish everyone out there who might see this a happy Easter and a great summer.

A fine Saturday morning.

After a bumpy start with a very cold wet November and a warm and dry December the Utah Ice season is finally off and running.

I spied this at the very bottom of Little Cottonwood Canyon and hadn’t ever remembered it forming. A quick look at Mountain Project yielded no information. I knew that another nearby small flow had been FA’d in a recent winter. Protected by some mixed climbing I thought we might have a shot at doing a new route.

I had a partner lined up for Saturday so Friday afternoon I hiked to the ramps that led to the base of the pillar.  There were no other tracks and on my way out I covered mine. There were still a few hours of daylight left and I didn’t want to get scooped.

6AM is always a tough time to get out of a warm bed. Especially to go hike in the dark and stand in the cold but the sunrise found us at the base of the rock and within a short mixed pitch to the base of the Ice.

Easy but insecure slabs went down fairly easily and I was at the base.

Nate lead the pillar of beautiful yellow ice to the trees that we planned on rappelling from and……. that had slings from a previous ascent.

No new route but a fine adventure on new (to us) ice and a great way to start the day.

Moab rafting is looking good.

I just got the first 2011 stream flow forecast and things are looking great. The drainages that provide water for our Utah rafting trips received 150% of average snowfall in December which means that even if we have an abnormally dry month stream flows will be at least normal. If we stay in this storm track the forecasters are talking run off levels not seen since 1997, way above normal.

What does this all mean.
First, our Dolores River trip will be incredible April thru early June. The Dolores is one of my favorite river runs. Technical rafting in a desert setting is not the norm. The Dolores serves this kind of rafting up in buckets.
Second, the Fisher Towers will be incredibly fun and really big. Don’t let this put you off. This section is easily customizable buy simply either missing or hitting the big features encountered along the way.
Third, Cataract Canyon will be huge in May and June. One of natures spectacles, the rapids on this trip are some of the biggest in N. America.

No matter if you have 1 day or a week we have a trip for you and it looks like this is going to be a year to remember.

New site, new Utah rafting season

Well after years of thinking about and now months of development our new site is live. There’s still some work to do but the majority of the heavy lifting is complete. Clean and easy to navigate with lots of photos of our great Moab rafting, rock climbing and canyoneering trips I am super excited about the launch.

Hiking Arches National Park, The Fiery Furnace

Here’s some good news. The NPS has begun offering online reservations for the Fiery Furnace hike. One of the best ranger led activities I have ever done. No one better to see this magnificent area with than a NPS ranger. The ranger I went with was studying the Fiery Furnace for a PHD.

To see a description and book online check out recreation.gov.

This hike is a great one to combine with a day of Moab rafting or rock climbing.

We are scheduled to kick off 2010 operations in less than a month. Call now to reserve your adventure. (800) 259-4046

Ice Climbing Ouray

This is a photo of my girl. Emma getting it done at the Kids Wall, Ouray, CO. 1st Ice Climb ever.

This past weekend we got to return to one of my favorite places, Ouray. A quintessential mountain town with unpaved streets, cool architecture, Hot Springs and great Ice Climbing make this a place I miss the moment I leave.

It’s always great to play in the snow that will become our summer time play ground, the Colorado River.

The Moab rafting season is right around the corner. Pray for snow!

Summer 09

Well that sure was a quick 2 months. A blur of rafting, climbing and canyoneering with people from all over the world. What a season we and Moab have been having.
I just want to take 2 seconds to say, thanks to those that have shared an adventure with us so far in 2009 and come on down to those who are thinking about it.

The river is still at levels that we didn’t even see in some of the worst dought years and the scenery that surrounds our rock and canyoneering routes is spactacular as always.

Our 2009 guides are doing a fantastic job, keeping people safe, sharing what they know about the sports we do and the area in which we do them. I’ve heard more than a few times this season that the time spent with Red River Adventures was the very best of the entire vacation.

Moab Rafting And Rock Climbing, Open For Business!

Well that’s it. Winter’s over.

It might be snowing where you are and admittedly is cold here but winter’s over.

Our first booked trip is for March 31st which means that the 2009 rafting season starts in only a few weeks. To be ready for the 31st means that we start NOW!

Getting boats out, cleaning gear, making changes and improvements all the things that have to be done behind the scenes start now.

I know I keep saying it but this summer should be good. March 1st numbers are above average, 115% of normal, and with more snow predicted water levels should be great.

Reservations are ahead of last year and we’ve already sold out several dates in June and July.

With new rock climbing and canyoneering options guided by the same great people that take you rafting there’s no need to look anywhere else for Moab Adventure.

Moab Rock Guides In Red Rocks

Longing for some warmer temps, long routes and easy climbing to shake out the cobwebs from a long winter I put together a last minute plan to head to Red Rocks for some fun.

3 days, 3 or 4 routes with an estimated 25+ pitches all under 5.9 were on the menu.
What unfolded was not in the plan at all.
Day 1
Rain.

This although pretty is not something you want to see before heading out for a day of desert rock.

We did mange to get in a two pitch climb during the only break in the clouds.

But then this moved in and we were shut down for good.

You might ask? What next. Well, being well trained and forward thinking outdoor professional we had of course brought along all the things you might need in an emergency. Food, water and adult beverages all laid in for just such a situation. Obviously there was only one thing to do, hit the emergency supplies, hard. Later deciding that shelter was in order we headed to the Bonnie Springs Ranch for food and beverages that didn’t come from a cooler. After much food and drink, meeting Bonnie and seeing freinds who live in Vegas it was time to go, they were closing. Closed a bar in Vegas…enough said.
Pitch tally 2

Day 2
Not so much….and no pictures.
After a rather long nap in the Pine Creek parking lot which prompted quite a bit of conversation among some of the other visitors to Red Rocks we managed to get off at the crack of 1PM. We hiked to what we were sure would be an empty Cat in the Hat to find a party, only slightly more lazy than us, just leading off on pitch 2. We decided to head up. Ooppss. Climbing hurt much more than hiking and with a pinch of hot afternoon sun I, well, I wasn’t feeling “tip top”.
After catching the party above at the bottom of pitch 3 we decided to call it a “DAY”. Down we went. Pitch tally 4.

Day 3
This is what we came for.

** Video Missing – Would Not Transfer**

Steep and fun, classic Red Rocks face climbing, steep jugs, 580′ of a rock climbing “powder run”.
These 5 pitches would have been worth the drive.
Pitch tally 10.

The trip didn’t unfold the way I thought it would but it will be one I remember for ever.

It’s Early But This Is Great For Moab Rafting

I just got the Colorado River basin Forecast report for January.
The mountains up stream of Moab are at 125% of normal snowpack. This is fantastic.
I know that we’ve got plenty of time for it to stop snowing or for it to get warm and for the snowpack to go away but for now it’s more snow on Jnauary 1st. than any time since 1997.

Moab rafting is gonna be good, let’s hope.

Utah Rock Climbing, 500 Feet Of Fun

My 4th of July vacation happened in the early hours of July 6th. I went to Big Cottonwood Canyon, Mule Hollow wall and linked Down, Dirty, Doublecrossed, 5.7 430 feet and Implorien 5.9 200 feet.


 

Up at 5:30 AM, meet Dan at 6 on the route by 7AM after about a mile and 1200 vertical feet of approach.
 

Sunrise happened some time during the first or second pitch. Beautiful rock and views of Stairs Gulch for the next hour or so keep us content and make the “evil StairMaster” approach worth it. 2 and a half double rope rappels gets us back to the ground. A short walk and we are heading up again on Implorien. More great stone and a trail of bolts gets us to the top and we rap. Back on the ground again we suck down some water, eat an apple and run out to the car.
 

6 pitches, 4 rappels, 2 miles, 2400 vertical feet of up and down approach and 4 hours and 27 minutes and we are back at the car. 4th of July celebration complete.
 

For the grade I don’t think that rock climbing in the Wasatch gets much better.

Utah Rafting Class II, Why Fisher Towers Rocks

Well spring has sprung and summers right around the corner. The melt has started and the Colorado is running high. Here’s a recent photo of the Class II Rocky Rapid.
The BIG hit. We’re havin fun now.

Wait a minute, that doesn’t look right!

I hope this answers the question, “will it be exciting enough”.

NOTE: **No humans were hurt in the rafting of this river.**

Moab Rafting – The Dolores River

On the 27th of April the 2008 crew of Red River Adventures embarked on a 3 day Utah rafting trip that was fantastic. 13 of the Riverpeople launched at Gateway, Colorado for the 2008 kick off Dolores river run. Along the way we discovered that you can fly into Gateway, new pictographs, and that Charlie can fly but doesn’t land so well

Playing With Matches In Moab

We’ve all been told that playing with matches is a no no. Hell, I’ve told my daughter that within the last month.

Now, courtesy of some children camping along the Colorado River at Dewy Bridge campground Moab has a concrete example and spectacular pictures of what happens when that rule is broken.
In early April a brush fire was started that subsequently engulfed the historic Dewey Bridge.

No longer will the Moab rafting community get to look out at the bridge that Mr. Dewey, a self taught engineer, built. So know that when driving in on senic byway 128 you think to yourself, didn’t there used to be a bridge there? that there did indeed and your not going crazy.

Utah Rafting The Dolores River

Well it’s starting to happen. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t hear a story related to how much snow is in the mountains or possible spring time flooding.
Now the good people at the Dolores Water Conservancy have released their forecast for the 2008 season. In a word, WOW.

They are going to release water for all of April and May and with planned releases of 3000 cfs+ in May. The rafting on the Gateway section should be fantastic. There hasn’t been releases of this much water for this long a period of time in many years.

Everyone at Red River Adventures is incredibly excited about the upcoming 2008 season and running the Dolores in particular. Smaller than most of the classic desert rivers this incredibly scenic and remote river offers technical rafting at it’s best.

Moab’s River People Are Listening

Here’s something that I have recently stumbled upon, the Dirt Bag Diaries. Check it out. Fitz Cahall podcasts stories of life, travel and climbing. Quiet, genuine stories that rise above the deafening roar of all that this hyper connected world is.

This american life for anyone who has ever gotten first chair, earned thier turns, tied in or stood at the top of a rapid they’ve never run.

Pheeww!!! Mountain Snow Means Moab Rafting

Carl on a Class V powder day!!!

That was a quick month and a half. It’s amazing how fast time goes by when it snows almost every day and the ice climbing is as good as it has been in a decade. It’s been snowing like the old days. 14′ of glorious, river swelling snow fell in the Wasatch range between December 20th and January 10th. Some locations in Colorado have already recieved more snow this year than all of last.

Most of the Riverpeople have been out in the white stuff taking advantage of the water in the mountians before it melts and makes our rapids.

Pray for snow!!!!!

Utah Rock Climbers Head To Red Rocks!!!!!

Just got back from our trip to Red Rocks. The plan was this, climb three of classic long routes in the reserve back to back to back. 5 days, 1000 miles to drive, 30+ pitches up to 11c, 15+ rappels and more miles of hiking than a Marathon would certainly test my training regiment, of not training, to the limit.

Day 1:

Levitation 29, 7 pitches 11c, one of the longest approaches in RR

Due to a lack of proper planning we don’t leave SLC until 8 PM. Thanks to the time change we arrive RR by 1 AM. Snag the last camping spot and toss out the pad and the bag. The alarm gets set for 5:30 AM, I’m really looking forward to my 4 hours of sleep.

The alarm sounds and we’re off. Coffee and oatmeal both about the same consistency get us going. We drive “the Loop” park, rack and start walking 6:30 on schedule.

There’s always that point, I guess you call it the beginning, in the trip were everything is great. The sunrise is beautiful, the hiking pretty easy we’re going climbing, yeah. Than the pain starts. Slowly at first. Rocks you were able to scramble over become larger requiring the use of hand holds and climbing skills. Route finding plays a roll because even this early on I realize I want to MINIMIZE the amount of wrong turns I make. Cairns sprout like cat us confusing us even more.

Then it happens the “short cut” rears it’s ugly head. Cairns point the way to what looks like the route that Shaw saw on the web and copied, by hand, onto the back of some scrap paper. It’s suppose to save 15 min. Up we go! Easy at first, then right about the time you reach the point of having covered to much ground to go back the scrambling begins to slowly morph into climbing. We stop in a flat spot with about 300′ of slab below us. It’s only 20′ of 5.easy to what I hope with every cell in my body is the upper “easy” slabs. I can see the way clearly and I hope it’s as easy as it looks and I go. Not too bad and now we’re on the right track. After another 30 min. on what Shaw calls the evil StairMaster we top out next to the bottom of the route. 2 hours, not bad.

I’m relived to be roping up after soloing the approach slabs. The climbing begins right off the bat with the newly replaced bolt being just out of reach from the ledge that taller folks stand on to clip. The chopped stud mocks me as I can easily reach it. I make the first moves in the series that the bolt is there to protect, stop and clip and head up. The climbing is fun and the protection though small is good. My foot cuts out unexpectedly and I almost go for a ride. Resoles aren’t working quite right yet but they come on strong as I go higher.

It’s hot, 80, calm and not a cloud in the sky which would be great except that the climb faces directly south and we are cooking.

The next pitches go well. We swap leads and Shaw ends up leading the crux 5.11 pitches which is fine with me. The route gets steeper as we go up. We eat bars that go down like nails, suck some Gu and finish the water on about pitch 5. The 6th pitch seems hard. The topo says 10b but it’s not going well for me. I can’t grip to the only hold that I can find to clip off of and after whipping 3 times I am positive that what I’ve been gripping aint a 10b offering. I finally figure it out but by the time I make the belay there’s no question about it, I’m tired.
Shaw leads pitch 7 and that’s it Levitation 29 complete.

Except for the raps, reversing the slabs, the river bed and the hike across the desert all of which it turns out only takes 3 hours. This 3 hours included a very important stop at a pool of cold water that we treated and drank.
All and all it was a good day for the riverpeople though upon further reflection a little hot.
Oh yeah the new book rates pitch 6, 10d.

To be continued…….

River Rafting Reviews and Red River Adventure Testimonials!

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Mark Popelka
March 5, 2024

John, an IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide led a backcountry tour for me today. It was a full on mountain adventure with extreme weather. My kind of day in the mountains. John is the epitome of what a guide should be. He is extremely personable, patient, fit, and a master of his profession. A Guide full of experience and knowledge. I learned an incredible amount of information today on mountain travel and avalanche related topics. He took the time to explain and ensure I understood the topics. He also shared tips and techniques that made my experience a 10 out of 10. I plan to hire John in the future. You can’t go wrong asking for John. He’s amazing!

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mark gregg
March 1, 2024

Carl is a consummate professional backcountry ski guide. I always learn a ton and have fun in the process. I'll be back!

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Anna Rust
February 28, 2024

Honestly one of the best classes I’ve take, Jake and Vic are both through educators and great guides. If you’re looking to take a AIARE course these guys are great! I left feeling more prepared to deal with avalanche problems and identifying risks in the backcountry.

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Steve Sherwood
February 12, 2024

I had a great time with John at Red River Adventures doing a ski tour yesterday. We skied around Cardiff Fork in the Wasatch, he’s a tremendous guide, such attention to detail, I’ve gone on nearly a dozen trips with him. He and Carl at Red River make a dynamic team. They do rock climbing, skiing, alpine climbing, river guiding, you name it they do it. Keep it up folks!

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Susan Sims
February 10, 2024

Victoria was fun and was able to adapt for what suited our time for the day. Appreciated the rescue sled tips.

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George Diver
February 2, 2024

Jake and Ben were professional, informative and extremely helpful. Would recommend to anyone who feels apprehensive about taking an avalanche safety course.

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Mike Martula
February 1, 2024

Amazing experience with Sam on my first back country experience

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Liam Doyle
January 29, 2024

Jake and Garth were both excellent instructors, and just a blast to hang out with for a weekend. It is super obvious they both care a ton about providing an impactful educational experience - but they also made the entire weekend very fun. Highly recommend.

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Lukasz Sewera
January 25, 2024

Great experience during our rescue course.

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Derek Wang
January 24, 2024

It was a blast. Brain was really skilled and thoughtful.

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Candice Bithell
January 20, 2024

Spent a day ice climbing with Red River. Excellent instruction, fun guide (ask for Brian!), all in all a great time. Will go again for sure! Thanks Red River!

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Lawler Kang
January 19, 2024

Out of random coincidence, Sam had led me up a trail last year and strongly suggested I take this course, which was AWESOME! The experience and passion she and Jake bring to getting humans back safely and stoked is unparalleled. And the resources they walk you through and make available are profound. Can’t recommend Red River and these two strongly enough. If you’re serious about backcountry, this is an absolute must. I also really liked the small class size. Made a big difference. Looking forward to practicing my beacon finding at the resort.

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Jonas Clem
January 9, 2024

Great day with Jake at Provo Canyon. Very skilled guides that go above and beyond. Highly recommend….

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Ryan Kelly
January 9, 2024

Alex was an awesome instructor. We had a great day going over all of the different avalanche rescue techniques.

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Anthony Torma
January 1, 2024

Amazing guides who are knowledgeable and charismatic. Took an AIARE 1 class through them and it was an amazing time. I learned so much!

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Mark Sims
December 18, 2023

Amazing experience with John and Garth in our Avi 1 class. They were great teachers and I feel confident in the skills I acquired through their instruction.

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David Johnson
December 11, 2023

Sam was a fantastic guide and instructor. Very skilled at building our skills in the backcountry!

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Daniel Mills-Thysen
December 11, 2023

John, Jeremy, and Garth are all awesome and taught a great course in a beautiful area. If you are taking AIRIE 1 and don't have skis/board or beacon/probe/shovel they will help you out and loan you what you need for the course!

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Rochelle Erskine
December 11, 2023

Sam delivered an awesome rescue course!

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christy mallak
September 4, 2023

I went on August 31st, Leaky was our guide. He was awesome and was very pleased with our white water rafting. Thanks so much

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Richard Cox
August 11, 2023

We did the full day with lunch and was extremely pleased! Our guide was outstanding, the trip was great and the food was delicious. Highly recommended.

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Kyle Drenckhahn
August 8, 2023

No need to waste time reading this review when you could already be on their website signing up, but I suppose it's your time to waste, so here's the deal. A couple weeks ago, my friend suggested we go rafting in Moab together. She had previously done a trip with Red River Adventures a while back and loved it, so it seemed like a safe bet for my inaugural float. Simple sign up, fair prices, and knowledgeable guides. Pretty much a no-brainer. It totally held up. We had a blast with our guide, the absolutely incredible Molly. Her witty humor and kindness were only matched by her knowledge of the area and of the river itself. Between the named rapids, of which she had complete and utter control over, she kept the group entertained with fun little facts about the local geography, wildlife, and surrounding community. It was an even better experience than I had hoped for. One and only one complaint: On our way back to our vehicles after the trip, Molly gave our group some recommendations for restaurants in the area, including burgers at Milt's. It sounded like the perfect place for my friend and I to grab a quick bite on our way out of town since we were running short on time, so we stopped by. They were "temporarily closed." Molly, burgers are on you next time I see ya. ;)

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Roland Ducomble
August 6, 2023

We had a great day of rafting. Very well organized. Thanks to our guide Kira, she very professional and entertaining. Lunch was very good thanks to Leaky. Overall a perfect day.

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Sam Mckellar
August 5, 2023

Best rafting trip we've been on, and certainly not our first. Highly recommend

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Liu Qian
August 3, 2023

Definitely a Great day on the River. Leaky kept us entertained the whole journey and there can be some swimming. We did the full day which lasts much longer on the River and had a free lunch.

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Elizabeth S
August 1, 2023

Had an awesome time rock climbing in Moab with Red River Adventures. Our guide, Ryan, was super cool and also professional and had safety as his #1 importance the whole time. Great temperatures and we were in the shade the whole time (did this approx 7:30am-12pm). Would definitely come again!

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Michael Myers
August 1, 2023

I had a blast!

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Gummi Bear
August 1, 2023

We enjoyed the rafting very much. We had a great time, and I especially enjoyed the swimming on the side of the boat portion. I loved the trip and highly recommend it.

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James Wojcik
July 31, 2023

Very relaxing and fun float. Class 1 and 2 rapids were obviously pretty easy but Molly, our guide, was great and the view was spectacular.

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Jacob Nizri
July 30, 2023

Great experience!!!

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Austin Adams
July 30, 2023

We had the best morning on the water with Red River! We did the half day rafting trip on the Colorado through the canyon. The scenery was amazing, our guide Ryan (and all the guides) was great, we had lots of time for swimming, and it was a great intro into whitewater for my younger son. Top notch organization!

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Dustin Farris
July 29, 2023

It was a lot of fun. I was not to sure what to expect but it was the best part of our trip. I would do the full day (I think its called 1/2 day). The information said it would be a bbq lunch but it was better than that. The lunch they provided was my favorite meal of our entire trip. Ryan was our guide and he did great and made it interesting and fun. 19/10 stars

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MK
July 27, 2023

We loved our experience at Red River Adventures! The guides were great - funny and provided lots of interesting facts along the way! Our kids age 12,10, 7 loved their first time white water rafting! Breathtaking views.

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Megan Kremser
July 26, 2023

My two kids (9 and 11 years old) did the full day white water rafting and morning Bow and Arrow canyoneering adventures. We had an awesome time and they are already to visit Moab again!

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Mckenna Evans
July 24, 2023

Very fun! The ride is a tad shorter than anticipated. I would go for the full day trip. Lots of chances to swim and generally goof around.

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Kristin Mathew
July 24, 2023

Dan was an amazing guide! Very down to earth and made us feel safe and comfortable at every step of the way.

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Erika Anderson
July 23, 2023

Had a great time!

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Alison Scott
July 22, 2023

Red River adventures did a great job with our large group of adults and teenagers! We’d definitely go with them again! And if you can, make sure you get Brendan as your guide, he’s the best!

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Ava Cox
July 22, 2023

My husband and I had a great time! Our guide, Kinsley, was amazing! She explained everything and make us feel safe and comfortable. The hike wasn't too strenuous and the views were spectacular! I'll definitely want to do this again next time we're in Moab.

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Emily Hatch
July 21, 2023

Awesome trip. The guides were so friendly and fun and also focused on safety. The lunch was incredible (chickpea curry!) and in addition to the gorgeous canyon red rock scenery we saw river otters and mountain goats. The length of the full trip was perfect and we wish we could do it again tomorrow.

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Brooke Casselberry
July 20, 2023

It was a great day on the river!

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Suzette Henschell
July 18, 2023

Shout out to Ryan who did a fantastic job leading our morning white water adventure. We had a great time. Highly recommend. Thanks again Ryan!

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Amy Miller
July 18, 2023

My husband and I decided to do the full day white water rafting trip at the end of June. The experience was fun and enjoyable. The entire team was kind, friendly and really seemed to care about everyone having a good experience. Things were very well organized but the highlight for us was our guide Olivia. She was awesome. She was very nice, funny and extremely knowledgeable of the area and the environment. Great experience and I would recommend this company and if you are lucky to have her, Olivia, as your guide.

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Bruce T
July 18, 2023

Competent guides, incredible scenery- just an awesome experience all around. The full guided trip seems like a bargain in retrospect. Our guide was Jonas and he did a hell of a job navigating us through some gnarly class 2-3 rapids during highwater (15-20k cfs).

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Cyndi Diaz
July 18, 2023

This was so amazing!! We loved the experience. Perfect for a family and you just can’t beat the scenery 🙌🏻

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bert ballet
July 17, 2023

We had a great trip! Mackenzie was a great guide, she was very pleasant and we felt very safe with her!

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Riley Heaton
July 15, 2023

Canyoneering was great! Ryan was the best. 2nd most handsome guide... I think... I didn't meet the other guides. But fr, he's pretty great

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lauren cooper
July 14, 2023

We had an amazing time on our first climb of the trip. We climbed at the Ice Cream Parlor with Kenzie, who was super cool and amazing. She was able to answer all of our questions about the area and provided a very positive experience for us

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Chase Koory
July 13, 2023

Ryan w/ Red River was a phenomenal guide on the Fishers Tower rafting trip! He led us thru the best rapids and shared some great stories. Red River provided a great lunch! Overall great experience

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Alex Winn
July 7, 2023

We had Adam as our guide for the rock of ages canyoneering trip. We had an excellent time! He really knew his stuff and we all had so much fun! Definitely recommend for anyone who wants to get into canyoneering but hasn’t tried it yet.