Moab Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4X4 Tour

If you’re eyeing a full day of outdoor excitement in Moab, the Moab Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4X4 Tour might just be what you’re looking for. This tour combines two classic Utah adventures: off-roading through some of the most rugged, scenic parts of Canyonlands National Park and then cooling off with an exhilarating float down the Colorado River.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it offers a balanced mix of land and water-based exploration, giving you a comprehensive taste of Utah’s spectacular wilderness. Plus, the guides get rave reviews for their knowledge and friendliness, which really elevates the whole day. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that the rafting portion isn’t white-water rafting in the traditional sense—it’s more of a float, which might be a letdown for thrill-seekers expecting rapid rushes.

This tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting a full-day adventure that’s accessible to all ages and fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable with moderate activity. It’s especially suited to travelers who love scenic beauty, enjoy hands-on experiences, and want a good overview of the area without multiple separate bookings.

Key Points

• Balanced experience with both off-roading and river rafting
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and safety
• Great value for money with professionally guided tours and included meals
• Tour is suitable for those with moderate physical activity levels
• The rafting isn’t extreme but offers a relaxing float with some rapids
• Expect stunning vistas and interesting historical sites along the way

An In-Depth Look at the Moab Combo Tour

What You Can Expect From This Full Day

Starting bright and early, you’ll meet your guide in central Moab at NAVTEC Expeditions around 8:00 am. This isn’t just a casual drive; it’s a 4-hour off-road journey through Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky district, which is famous for its dramatic mesas and deep canyons. The focus here is on seeing the vast landscape from a different perspective—on rugged trails that wind below the mesas, giving you a real sense of the area’s scale and grandeur.

The itinerary is well thought out. You’ll explore sections of the Shafer Trail and White Rim Road, both of which are iconic routes providing panoramic views and some hair-raising switchbacks. The White Rim Road is about 100 miles long and sits roughly 1,000 feet below the top of the mesa, making it perfect for those craving scenic vistas with a bit of adventure. The guides’ extensive knowledge about the area’s geology, history, and rock art adds layers of interest, especially for anyone curious about the cultural past of this rugged terrain.

A highlight for many is the stop at Fossil Point—a lookout with sweeping views—and the opportunity to see ancient rock art made by Pueblo civilizations. It’s not just a sightseeing tour; it’s an educational one, with guides sharing stories that breathe life into the landscape.

The Riverside Lunch

After a solid morning of off-roading, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch by the river. The setting is relaxing, and the food is simple but satisfying—fresh, hearty, and perfect for refueling before the next adventure. As one reviewer pointed out, “We refuel with a riverside buffet lunch,” which gives you a chance to unwind and soak in the scenery.

The Colorado River Rafting Experience

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to water. You’ll switch from land to water, outfitted with life jackets and river gear. The rafting portion is about 4 hours long, and while it’s not a white-water adrenaline rush, it’s still an exciting and scenic float. The guides steer the boats through Class II and III rapids, which offer enough splash and fun to keep everyone engaged without being too intense.

The river guides get glowing reviews for their expertise and friendliness. For example, travelers have said guides like Zoe and Adriana “made everyone excited about their experience” and were “knowledgeable and friendly.” You get waterproof bags to take photos and even the option to kayak—adding a bit of variety to the water adventure.

While some reviews note the rafting isn’t a high-adrenaline experience, most agree that it’s a relaxing yet invigorating way to see the canyonlands from below. Kids and adults alike enjoy the chance to float past towering canyon walls, rock spires, and wildlife. It’s a peaceful, scenic ride with splashes of excitement, perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the Colorado River without the danger of big rapids.

The Overall Experience

Travelers consistently mention the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides as a highlight. One reviewer said, “Don, our Canyonlands driver and guide, was excellent. With 50 years of experience, he had thorough knowledge of the area, culture, history, and terrain,” making the entire tour more engaging and educational.

The tour is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with most reviews mentioning how the guides go out of their way to make it fun and informative. The small group size (max 12) also means you get more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

Practical Details & Value

At around $264.63 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day of adventure. When you consider the included lunch, professional guides, gear, and transportation, it feels like good value, especially compared to booking separate activities. The fact that the tour is booked on average 60 days in advance indicates how popular and well-organized it is.

Transportation is via a comfortable 4WD, perfect for navigating the rugged trail. The tour starts at 8:00 am and runs for approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day commitment but one that’s packed with diverse sights and experiences.

The group size is limited to 12 travelers, which enhances the personal guide interaction and makes for a more intimate experience. The tour also offers flexibility with optional kayak rentals if requested beforehand.

What Are The Downsides?

Some reviews mention the raft portion isn’t quite what they expected if they were hoping for intense white-water action. Instead, it’s more of a float with gentle rapids, which is perfect for most but might disappoint thrill-seekers.

Another consideration is the weather, as the tour involves outdoor activities in exposed environments. A quick rain or intense sun might impact your experience, so packing sun protection and rain gear is advised.

Lastly, the park entrance fee isn’t included in the price ($15 per person unless you have an annual pass), so budget that in.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo tour suits those who value diverse landscapes and engaging guides over adrenaline-heavy activities. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of exploration—seeing the beauty of Canyonlands from above and below, without needing to book multiple tours. It’s also suitable for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a moderate, well-rounded adventure.

If you’re interested in local history, geology, and scenery, and want to experience Utah’s wilderness without extreme exertion, this tour hits the mark. However, if your main goal is white-water thrill-seeking, you might want to look for a more intense rafting experience elsewhere.

The Sum Up

The Moab Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4X4 Tour offers a well-rounded way to explore some of Utah’s most stunning landscapes. With a mix of off-road adventures and scenic river floats, it appeals to travelers who love seeing nature from multiple angles. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more meaningful and enjoyable.

While the rafting isn’t high-intensity white water, it still provides a beautiful and relaxing way to experience the Colorado River. The off-road portion provides equally breathtaking views, with enough thrill and history to keep your interest piqued. The included lunch and small group size add to the feeling of value and personal attention.

This tour is perfect for those who want a full-day adventure that highlights the best of Moab’s natural beauty. It suits visitors eager to learn and explore, without the need for extreme activity levels. If you’re looking for a balanced, memorable trip that combines scenic views, local history, and a touch of adventure, this is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour is generally suitable for all ages, provided participants can handle moderate physical activity, like riding in a 4WD and floating in a raft.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back in Moab, making it a full day of activity.

What’s included in the price? The price includes professional guides, a riverside buffet lunch, transportation in a 4WD vehicle, river gear, waterproof bags, and optional inflatable kayaks upon prior request.

Are park entrance fees included? No, the $15 per person fee for Canyonlands National Park is not included unless you have an annual park pass.

What should I bring? Bring sturdy footwear, quick-dry clothing, sun protection, a water bottle, a hat, and a camera (preferably waterproof). Rain gear might also come in handy.

Can I bring my own drinks? Soft drinks aren’t included, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Water refills are provided.

How many people are in each tour group? Tours are limited to 12 travelers, which allows for more personalized guides and a more intimate experience.

Is the rafting safe? Yes, guides will give a safety briefing before the float, and the guides are experienced in navigating Class II and III rapids.

Do I need prior experience for this tour? No, the tour is suitable for beginners and all skill levels, especially since the rafting is more of a float than a white-water thrill ride.

If you’re after a day mixing scenic off-roading with a mellow river adventure in the stunning surroundings of Moab, this tour offers a balanced and well-reviewed option. It’s a chance to see the best of Canyonlands and the Colorado River with guides who truly know their stuff.