Splish and Splash: Stand Up Paddleboarding on the Colorado River

If you’re considering a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure in Moab, you’ve probably come across the “Splish and Splash” tour offered by Paddle Moab. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture of what to expect—especially if you’re looking for a fun, active way to enjoy the stunning Colorado River scenery.

What really stands out about this tour is its focus on white water paddling, pushing your limits just enough to get your adrenaline going without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guides make it clear safety and personal attention are priorities. On the flip side, it’s a tour that demands a moderate level of physical fitness, so it’s not really suited for absolute beginners or those with mobility concerns.

Who would love this? If you’re an adventure lover who’s comfortable in or eager to try white water, this trip is a solid pick. Families with kids 10 and up can enjoy it too, especially if they’re already comfortable on water. All in all, it’s a balanced mix of thrill, scenery, and expert guidance—perfect for those wanting a memorable day on the river.

Key Points

• Exciting white water paddling combined with scenic views along the Colorado River
• Small group experience with a 4-to-1 guest-to-guide ratio for personalized attention
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers aged 10 and up
• Includes all necessary SUP gear, snacks, and transportation to and from the river
• Safety is a priority with clear instructions and river safety briefings
• Booked, on average, 43 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable

What the Tour Offers: An Honest Breakdown

An Overview of the Experience

What excites most about this tour is the chance to paddle on a notoriously scenic stretch of the Colorado River. The trip begins with an easygoing meeting at the Paddle Moab shop in Moab, Utah, and ends back at the same spot—making logistics straightforward. You’re mostly navigating a section of river that follows the southern boundary of Arches National Park, which means the views are as dramatic as the water is fun.

For about 3 to 4 hours, you’ll be on the water, challenging yourself against four sets of white water waves and other surprising river features. This isn’t a mellow float; it’s a lively ride that keeps you engaged, with enough challenge for experienced paddlers but also accessible for beginners who are comfortable on water.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

The tour’s entire journey is centered around paddling along the Colorado River, with the focus on experiencing the thrill of white water and the beauty of the surrounding scenery. It starts at the Paddle Moab shop, where you’ll get all the SUP equipment you need—branded boards, paddles, and safety gear. The staff and guides are known for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, making sure everyone feels comfortable and prepared.

Once on the water, you’ll follow the southern boundary of Arches National Park, enjoying views that are both impressive and uniquely Moab. The highlight is navigating four sets of rapids, which offers a good mix of fun and challenge. Many reviews mention that the guides do a great job of explaining safety procedures and teaching paddling techniques, especially for those new to white water.

Safety and Instructions

Safety is a clear priority here. The included river safety briefings and instructions help you understand what to expect and how to handle the waves and river features. The small group size (max 8 travelers) means that guides can give personalized advice, making sure everyone stays safe while having a good time.

Because of the nature of the water, moderate physical fitness is recommended, and children must be at least 10 years old. These criteria ensure that participants are capable of handling the activity’s physical demands and the excitement of white water.

The Staff and Guides

From the reviews, guides like Ben and Josh are highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the experience both safe and fun. One reviewer mentioned that even when they signed up solo, the guide still took them out, which speaks to the flexibility and professionalism of Paddle Moab’s team.

For many, the guides are the star of the trip, offering not just technical guidance but also local insights and encouragement that turn a good trip into a memorable one.

Value for Money

At $93 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal considering it includes all SUP gear, snacks, transport, and expert guidance. When you think about the cost of equipment rental and guides separately, it’s a convenient package that simplifies planning.

The reviews back up that the experience feels worth the price. One reviewer called it “worth every penny,” emphasizing how much fun they had, especially with the expert guidance that made the whole process accessible and safe. It’s not the cheapest activity in Moab, but it’s a unique way to experience the Colorado River’s wild side without the need for full-day or multi-day trips.

Group Size and Booking

The tour keeps group sizes small—a maximum of 8 travelers—which means more personalized attention and less chaos. Planning to book at least 43 days in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, because it tends to fill up quickly.

The Experience in Action: What Travelers Say

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and friendly attitude. Nick_S praised guide Ben for making the trip safe and fun, noting that he was very knowledgeable and a great teacher. This kind of personal touch can make all the difference, especially when navigating white water for the first time.

Kelly_N appreciated the flexibility and accommodation when she was initially uncomfortable with SUP and was offered a personal inflatable kayak instead—showing Paddle Moab’s willingness to customize experiences for different comfort levels.

Kate’s review highlights the joy of a first whitewater SUP experience, with her guide Josh making sure she still got to enjoy the adventure even when she was the only person signed up that morning. That flexibility and willingness to go the extra mile make a real impression.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Splish and Splash tour is an excellent choice if you’re eager to experience a white water adventure in a manageable, guided environment. It’s well-suited for adventure seekers age 10 and up who are comfortable on water and have a moderate fitness level.

If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic float without white water, this might not be the best fit. Conversely, if you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed, guided experience in a stunning setting, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Splish and Splash paddleboarding tour offers a wonderfully balanced experience—adventure, scenery, and expert guidance in one package. Its focus on safety, small group size, and knowledgeable guides make it an appealing choice for those wanting to try white water SUP without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of all gear, snacks, and transportation simplifies planning and adds value.

While it’s slightly more demanding than a leisurely float, many reviews confirm it’s worth every penny for the thrill and the views. It’s best suited for adventure lovers, families with older kids, or anyone comfortable in water who wants to challenge themselves in a safe environment.

If you’re craving a memorable way to experience the Colorado River’s dynamic waters and breathtaking scenery, this tour could be just what you need. Just remember to book early, bring water, and prepare for a fun, active day on the river.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The activity runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, including paddling time and safety instructions.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary stand-up paddleboarding equipment, snacks, transportation to/from the river, and guidance are included in the $93 fee.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, children must be at least 10 years old to participate, making it suitable for families with older kids or teens comfortable on water.

Do I need prior paddling experience?
Not necessarily. While beginners are welcome, some degree of physical fitness is recommended, and guides provide instructions and safety briefings to help you feel confident.

What should I bring?
Bring a personal water bottle, as it’s not included. Wear appropriate water-friendly clothing, and consider sun protection since you’ll be on the water for several hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift last minute.

If you’re looking for a fun, guided white water paddleboarding adventure near Moab with good value, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery, this tour definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.