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Cataract Canyon Whitewater Rafting

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Overview

Trip Snapshot

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group, other trips on the water, and sometimes the weather. Please refer to your confirmation letter for the exact dates of your trip.

MEETING PLACE:The Gonzo Inn – 100 W 200 S, Moab, Utah
*Please note that on the morning of the trip we will reconvene at the OARS warehouse located at 2802 S Hwy 191 Moab, UT
MEETING TIME:6 PM, the evening before your trip
RETURN TIME:Approximately 4:00-6:00 PM
RIVER RATING:Class III-IV (Class V possible during peak flows)
RIVER MILES:94 miles total, 16 miles of whitewater with 34 named rapids consolidated into 1 ½ days of the trip
PUT-IN:Potash Boat Ramp
TAKE-OUT:Hite Crossing on Lake Powell
TRIP LENGTH:6 days/5 nights or 4 days/3 nights
BOAT OPTIONS:6 days: Oar raft, paddle raft*, inflatable kayak, stand-up paddleboard, dory*, snout
4 days: Oar raft, paddle raft*, snout
*some boat options dependent on water levels and other factors

Itinerary at a Glance

The Day Before Your Trip

Meet at 6 PM at the Gonzo Inn for a pre-trip meeting. This is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and guides and ask any last-minute questions. Your guides will give you a thorough trip orientation and pass out your waterproof river bags so you can pack your belongings that evening.

Day 1

The morning of your trip, we’ll meet at the OARS Warehouse (located at 2802 Hwy 191 S, Moab, UT) for a shuttle ride to our Colorado River put-in at Potash. Upon arrival at the boat ramp, our guides will present a safety talk and orientation to our boats and gear. We’ll cover some miles* on the first day, likely stopping for a short hike to see some 250-million-year-old petrified wood. We’ll make camp on a big sandy beach, watching afternoon turn to evening as your guides prepare dinner and the sun sets behind towering canyon walls.

*The first 50 miles of our 4-day Cataract Canyon rafting trip is motorized.

Days 2 – 3 or 5 (Depending on trip length)

Travel downriver. Refer to the trip page for a more detailed 4-day and 6-day sample itinerary.

Day 4 or Day 6 (Depending on trip length)

There may be a few fun rapids left on the last morning of your trip before motoring a section of Lake Powell to the take-out at Hite Crossing. From here, you’ll say goodbye to the guides and take a five-minute van shuttle to the airstrip for a scenic flight to Moab, typically arriving between 4 – 6 PM.

Please be advised: It may be necessary for your belongings to be transported in the shuttle truck, which will arrive in Moab the following evening. (The plane’s luggage allowances vary depending on the number and weight of guests on each flight.) Because of the possibility of delays and late-arriving luggage, we strongly suggest overnighting in Moab after your trip.

Alternative Return Transportation

A flight is included in your trip cost for the return back to Moab at the end of the trip. If you prefer not to fly, we will deduct this fee from your trip cost and you may arrange to have your vehicle shuttled to the takeout point. For car shuttle information, please contact Coyote Shuttle.

Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Skilled professional guide service
  • Catered camping: All meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day
  • 2 waterproof bags to hold your gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L; not to exceed 25 lbs. each packed). Your sleeping bag and pad must fit into 1 bag and your remaining gear will fit into the other bag. If you rent our gear it will come already packed in 1 of the 2 waterproof bags issued to each guest. Your remaining gear, therefore, must fit in 1.
  • 1 small waterproof bag for a camera and other small items you’ll want during the day (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L)
  • 2-person tents, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers and odd numbers on the booking will have their own tent at no additional cost and will not need to share. Extra tents can be rented for $30 each.
  • Personal flotation device (PFD) which must be worn at all times on the river in compliance with safety regulations
  • 12-ounce insulated mug to keep drinks hot (or cold) in camp. NOTE: This will not suffice as your water bottle
  • Camp chairs
  • Eating utensils and plates
  • Highest-quality inflatable rafts and related equipment
  • Transfers to the river and back

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Transportation to and from Moab
  • Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
  • Sleeping bag & a deluxe 3-inch thick air-filled pad
  • Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Items of a personal nature (see suggested packing list below)
  • Gratuities

Available for Rent

Please indicate on your guest registration form whether you want to rent a sleep kit or if you prefer to bring your own.

  • Sleep Kit: Can be rented for $40 per person. Sleep kits consist of a sleeping bag with sheet liner, deluxe 3-inch thick air-filled sleeping pad, pillow, and pillowcase.
  • Sleeping Pad Only: The deluxe 3-inch thick air-filled pad only may be rented for $15.
  • Extra Tent: Can be rented for $30 per tent.

Getting Ready

Pre-Trip Checklist

☐ Consider Purchasing Travel Protection: Learn more about the plan we highly recommend and get a quote.

☐ Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

☐ Reserve flights, shuttles, and lodging: Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to booking flights and/or reserving overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable. It is important to make reservations early as rooms may be limited during peak travel periods.

☐ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our Whitewater Orientation video before joining us. 

☐ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria. 

☐ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 60 days before your trip (refer to your invoice for final payment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file when final payment is due.

River Runners’ Responsibility Code

1. Read the pre-trip literature and arrive at the meeting place on time.

2. Understand the risks: your safety is ultimately your responsibility.

3. Treat your fellow guests and guides with respect and courtesy; harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.

4. Wear clothing and personal protective equipment suitable for the current conditions.

5. Listen to and follow the guides’ instructions.

6. Abide by the managing agency’s rules.

7. No drugs or alcohol prior to, or during, your trip.; alcohol is allowed in moderation in camp on overnight trips.

8. Minimize your impact on the environment.

9. Wear the OARS-issued and properly–fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when in the boats or swimming. Wear a helmet when required.

10. Your children are your responsibility!

Travel Arrangements

GETTING TO MOAB, UT

By Air

Commercial flights are available into Salt Lake City and Moab, UT; Cortez and Grand Junction, CO.

Redtail Air offers flights between Salt Lake City and Moab. They also offer charter flights to Moab from Grand Junction, or Cortez.  Please call Redtail for more information: (800) 842-9251.

Car Rental

Please be aware Uber and Lyft are unavailable in Moab. Unless you have a large group, a rental car from Salt Lake City is usually the best option; even if it sits for a week while you are on the river.

There are two Enterprise Rent-A-Car locations in Moab. Please contact them directly for pricing and location hours as they are subject to change. Both can be reached at (435) 259-8505.

Shuttle Services

  • Moab Area Transit (833) 628-3733 – a fare-free transit service which offers options for day-to-day transportation in Moab
  • Moab Express – Offers point-to-point shuttle services from Canyonlands Field (CNY) to commercial and private properties within the Moab area. Reservations can be made on their website.
  • Salt Lake Express (208) 656-8824 – shuttles leave twice per day.

Check discovermoab.com/shuttle.htm for a full list of current operators.

Parking

If you’re arriving by car, parking is available at the OARS Warehouse. On the morning of departure, OARS staff will be present to show you to the designated parking area where your vehicle will stay during the duration of your trip. We cannot guarantee parking for large RV’s or trailers will be available, however, there are several storage facilities in Moab that can accommodate parking for large vehicles.

OARS cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents.

Pre- and Post-Trip Accommodations in Moab

We recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging. (Pre- and post-trip lodging is not included in the trip cost).

Recommended:

Gonzo Inn (800)791-4044: Book over the phone and mention you are an OARS guest when making your reservation for a special discounted rate.

Hampton Inn Moab : Use this web link to make your reservation and receive a special discounted rate.

Homewood Suites Moab : Use this web link to make your reservation and receive a special discounted rate.

Useful Information

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS

Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan, and many allergy-restricted diets without applying a fee. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricted diets as we do for our regular menu. Similarly, certain allergen-free snack foods are difficult or impossible to source in our locations, so feel free to bring your own favorite snacks to supplement our provisions. Please let your Adventure Consultant know if you intend to do so.

BEVERAGES/WATER

We carry sufficient drinking water along with us to provide for your needs throughout the trip. Water jugs for filling personal water bottles are always accessible. In some cases, we will re-supply water jugs with water filtered through a purification system we provide. (No iodine is used in the purification process.)

We also provide an assortment of soft drinks, including sodas, sparkling water, fruit juices, electrolyte mix and lemonade. Commercial outfitters may not provide any type of alcohol for their guests. 

You may bring your own supply of beer, wine, or liquor in non-glass containers. Beer is available at grocery stores and gas stations. Wine and liquor can be purchased at the Utah State Liquor Store. Full-strength beer and some liquor can be purchased at Moab Brewery and Distillery outside of liquor store hours.

If you choose to bring your own drinks (other than what we provide) or alcoholic beverages, please let us know at the pre-trip meeting. For your safety and the safety of others, alcoholic beverages are limited to camp.

BATHING

Bathing is allowed in the Colorado River but must be done with biodegradable soap. It is not, however, allowed in any of the side streams that feed into the river. If you plan to bring soap, we recommend using a liquid, eco-friendly soap such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s which can be purchased in most stores that have a camping section. Bathing wipes (pre-moistened cleansing towels, preferably biodegradable) are also good alternatives to submersion in the river and are especially convenient during cooler weather trips.

Washing Clothes

Clothing can easily be washed out in the river with biodegradable soap and typically dries quickly in the desert environment. However, the color of the river can fluctuate from completely clear to very silty so be aware that light-colored clothing has the possibility of becoming permanently stained.

WILDFIRES & SMOKE

Fire activity can impact the air quality on our trips, and occasionally wildfires may be present in the immediate vicinity of where we’re traveling. In general, we will not cancel a trip on account of smoky conditions, except in cases of clear danger to life or property. 
Learn more about rafting during wildfire season with OARS, including info about some of our protocols and travel protection recommendations.

HIKING

The opportunity to explore the area will depend on several variables, such as the amount of time spent in the boats (often 4-6 hours per day), the time it may take to break camp in the morning and to reach our next camp in the afternoon, other groups in the area, weather and more. We make every effort to provide guided excursions to nearby points of interest, some of which are brief walks while others are long hikes requiring more planning. The trip leader must consider the overall ability of the group when deciding what hikes to offer. In anticipation of doing some side exploration during your trip, remember to bring a water bottle and lightweight shoes that are comfortable for walking on uneven terrain. All hikes are optional so you can choose to relax by the boats or in camp instead. If you are an avid hiker, please let your Adventure Consultant know prior to your trip so the trip leader is aware.

FISHING

If you plan to fish, be sure to familiarize yourself with Utah fishing regulations. Adults will need to purchase a three-day, seven-day, or Utah annual license online (not required for youth 12 and under). You will also need to bring your own rod, tackle, and/or bait*.

When you reach the put-in there is a large sign to the right of the Potash Boat Ramp featuring full-color photos of the native endangered species, and the many prevalent invasive species. Even if you procure a copy of the local fishing regulations, we suggest snapping a picture of this sign to refer back to as you catch fish.

*Fishing rods must be collapsible and have a hard case. Please tell your guide about your fishing gear at the pre-trip meeting so they can plan adequate storage space.

Click on the links below for additional information on the following topics:

Weather

We recommend checking for an up-to-date weather forecast for Moab, UT one week before your trip. Being properly prepared for weather variations is an important factor in fully enjoying your trip.

Average Air & Water Temperatures

 Air (Day)°FAir (Night)°FWater Temp °F
April734257
May835160
June955672
July1016681
August966475
September875267
October744062

Packing for Your Trip

For more helpful information about what to wear and how to pack for a river expedition or to view our packing video, please visit our packing essentials page.

We want you to be prepared and comfortable for your trip. Below you’ll find some general tips for how to dress and what to pack and a comprehensive packing checklist. The need for warm weather or cold weather items should be based on a reliable weather forecast leading up to your trip.

Clothing

During the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and a synthetic or Merino wool shirt as a base layer. Additional layers for sun protection or insulation can be added and subtracted depending on the weather, temperature, and how wet you’re getting in the rapids.

In camp—When the weather is warm, lightweight cotton pants/shorts and shirts make great camp wear. Anytime the forecast calls for cool evenings and cold nights, a dry set of long underwear is the perfect base layer under long pants and a fleece sweater.

Footwear

During the day—The best choice is an amphibious shoe that drains water, protects your toes, and won’t come off in swirling currents. A retired pair of athletic shoes can work well, too. Sport sandals with a heel strap are a good option. Find professional-grade options made by Chaco®, the official footwear sponsor of OARS guides.

In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to the risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand or stepping on a sharp stick. The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes. It’s nice to put on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water. Flip flops or slip-on sandals are OK for wearing in camp only.

If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first! See our guide to footcare on river trips for more helpful tips.

Headwear

During the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection. Ball caps are also useful since they fit under helmets, which are required attire when paddling our whitewater rivers.

In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a non-cotton beanie-style hat to wear in camp. They are the perfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets. 

Hot Weather Trips

During the summer months, conditions on the river may be hot and sunny. These trips require less gear than spring or fall trips, but thoughtful packing is still required. Protection from the sun and heat will be critical to your enjoyment and health while on the river and during side hikes. To protect yourself from the sun’s rays, consider bringing long-sleeved shirts and pants.

A good way to keep cool is with long-sleeved cotton shirts. Old collared dress shirts work well. They can be soaked in the water and worn in the raft or carried on a hike for later use. This method of evaporative cooling is very effective. Bandanas are another useful item that can be used in this manner.

Camp-wear should be made of cotton and be loose-fitting. A combination of shorts/skirt and a lightweight top is ideal for staying cool on hot afternoons. 

To Avoid Being Cold

Synthetic or Merino wool long underwear is a must-have on river trips. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet (which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bag or daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weather a rain jacket and pants work better than a wetsuit because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold, or when you’re going through whitewater, then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot. Some folks find that wetsuits don’t work as well as they are tedious to put on and take off. During early season or high-water trips, we do provide wetsuits for paddlers. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; only synthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.

Something warm for your top & bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleece or wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your base layers so that you’ll have a set to wear in the boat and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.

April, May & September Trips: These are surely some of the most beautiful months to be on the Colorado River, but they can also produce some surprisingly chilly times. During the fall, the sun is not far enough north in the sky for its warming rays to reach down into the river canyon for as many hours a day as it does in the summer. This means more shady areas, fewer sunny ones. Therefore, when you are splashed (drenched) going through the rapids and you’re in a shady area, you will get very cold unless you are prepared.

Rain Gear

Rain gear protects you from rain, wind, and the splash of the rapids. It is one of the essential items that all guests should have regardless of the weather forecast, or what time of year they are traveling. Look for a jacket and pants that are 100% waterproof, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended as well as good secure closures around your head, neck, wrists, and ankles. Do not bring a rain poncho as it cannot be worn under your PFD.

Sun Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously! In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Lightweight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are also a must.

Bugs & Mosquitoes

Bugs and mosquitoes vary depending on location and time of year. It’s a good idea to come prepared with insect repellent. Long-sleeved shirts and pants may be desirable at times. Often yellow jackets and wasps can be a nuisance. We recommend a eucalyptus and lemongrass repellent. If you have moderate to severe allergies, you are required to bring two personal epi-pens.

MENSTRUAL CYCLE

Even if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend you bring some zip-close bags. These bags can store products during the day while you are on the river. Used pads or tampons can be disposed of in the trash at lunch or at camp. We provide some menstrual products on most trips for emergencies. See our guide to personal hygiene on the river for more helpful tips.

Sleeping Gear

You have the option to bring your own sleeping bag, pad, and pillow. Or you can rent our sleep kit. If you are purchasing your own bag for the trip, keep in mind that a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20°F (the normal range for an all-around, “three-season” bag) is recommended for early and late season trips.

Packing List

Equipment and Personal Items

☐  Sleeping bag, pad, sheet liner, and small pillow. Sleep kits including these items may be rented for $40.
☐ Two 1-liter water bottles: durable and reusable; insulated bottles recommended for trips in hot climates to prevent water from becoming too hot to drink
☐ Headlamp or flashlight (consider bringing extra batteries)
☐ Polarized sunglasses with securing strap (consider bringing a spare)
☐ Quick-drying towel (such as those made by Rumpl)
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Toiletries, including biodegradable soap (such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s)
☐ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher (aerosol sprays not recommended)
☐ Moisturizing lotion or cream
☐ Insect repellent
☐ Personal first-aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)
☐ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts
☐ Cash for gratuities

Footwear

☐ River shoes or sandals with a heel strap (such as those made by Chaco®); “Aqua socks” strongly discouraged
☐ Athletic shoes or light hikers
☐ Hiking socks

Clothing

☐ Long-sleeved shirt: lightweight and light color for sun protection (old dress shirts work well)
☐ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection
☐ Shade hat or visor with securing strap–flexible enough to fit under your helmet
☐ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant). A hooded jacket with secure closures is recommended
☐ Swimwear: tankinis and board shorts are a great option
☐ Underwear
☐ Shorts: 1-2 pair
☐ T-shirts/tops: 1-2
☐ Synthetic or Merino wool long underwear: 1 set top & bottom (light-, mid-, or expedition-weight depending on the time of year)
☐ Jacket: fleece or down/synthetic fill puffy (depending on the time of year, weather, and location)
☐ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for the season. Cotton is recommended for hot weather trips. Some guests may prefer an athletic skirt or dress.

Additional Essentials for early/late season trips (April to early June / September & October)

☐ Wetsuit booties and/or neoprene, synthetic or wool socks (for wearing inside your river shoes)
☐ Fleece top & bottom
☐ Warm hat and gloves: synthetic or wool
☐ Extra set of synthetic or Merino wool long underwear top and bottom
☐ Neoprene paddling gloves

Optional Items

☐ Camera and accessories
☐ Sarong: useful for sun protection, evaporative cooling, changing clothes, etc.
☐ Small day pack, waist pack, or hydration pack for side hikes
☐ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable cleansing towels
☐ Small bags: stuff sacks, zip-close bags, or similar for organizing items in your dry bag
☐ Large empty bag: laundry bag, pillow case, or similar for putting clothes into after your trip
☐ Earplugs
☐ Binoculars
☐ Splash jacket and pants
☐ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes, or travel clothesline
☐ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book
☐ Bandana
☐ Stand-up urination device

*Some of the links above are affiliate links and OARS will receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase based on our recommendations.

Packing Your Gear

At the pre-trip meeting, each person will be given two large waterproof bags (approximate sealed size: 13” diameter x 25” tall; 3318 cu in; 54.4 L). One bag will be for your clothing and personal items; the other bag will be for your sleeping gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, sheet, and pillow). These two bags will be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents are stowed separately. If you rent our sleep kit, it will come already packed in one of the 2 waterproof bags issued to each guest. 

We also provide a small waterproof bag for day use where you can keep items such as rain gear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. (approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter; 1081 cu in; 17.7 L). The bags are cylindrical in shape and pack from the top. 

Please pack light, and keep in mind that river attire is casual: comfort, convenience, and boat space take precedence over style. At the end of the trip, you will return to Moab with your waterproof bags, where you will be able to unpack your gear before your trip home.

Extra Luggage

We recommend you take on the river only what’s absolutely necessary. Keeping gear to a minimum ensures it will fit into the waterproof bags we supply and reduces unnecessary packing and unpacking in camp. If you do have extra luggage, personal belongings can either be stored in your vehicle or at your hotel so long as the hotel can make this accommodation. We are unable to store any personal belongings that don’t accompany you on the trip with the exception of heat-sensitive electronics like phones or tablets.

Valuables

We recommend that you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses, and cell phones, we recommend putting them in a zip-close bag at the bottom of your waterproof bag with your clothing.

If you are parking at OARS your keys will be collected and returned to you at the end of your trip.

Reminders

GRATUITIES

Tipping is appreciated by our staff. If you are wondering how much to tip, you may consider that we operate in a service industry with a host of behind-the-scenes contributors in addition to the guides on your trip. In general, we suggest a gratuity based on 10 – 15% of the trip cost. It is customary on OARS trips for gratuities to be given to the Trip Leader, in the form of cash or a personal check, who will then distribute appropriately amongst all the guides and support staff.

SOMETHING VOLUNTARY

In reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to Utah Rivers Council, a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to Utah’s rivers and clean water sources. One hundred percent of these funds go directly to Utah’s rivers and your contribution is tax-deductible. This donation is voluntary and may be removed from your invoice if you choose not to participate. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from your balance.

Terms & Conditions

Reservations and Payments

A $400/person deposit is required at the time of booking with final payment due 60 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 50 days before the departure date will be canceled.

Payments can be made by check, money order, eCheck, wire transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Prices are in US Dollars, and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency. Your payment is fully refundable for 7 days, less a 3% processing fee, after making a reservation when you reserve a trip 7 days or more prior to the final payment due date.

Cancellations and Refunds

Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below.

We regret that we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.

DATE OF CANCELLATIONCANCELLATION FEE
180 or more days before your trip$50/person
179 – 90 days before your trip$100/person
89 – 60 days before your trip$200/person. The remainder of your payment can be transferred to another trip within the same year (or to a credit account for the following year). No refund.
59 days or less before your tripFull fare

Please note that different deposit/cancellation policies may apply for charter groups. Refer to the group organizer’s confirmation email for details.

Canceled Trips

OARS reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. In such instances, we will inform you at least 45 days prior to departure. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have verified with OARS that your trip is confirmed. 

If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less the initial deposit amount and any non-refundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers; however, we cannot guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.

Transfers

If you need to move your reservation to a different trip during the same season, or to a credit account for the following year, there is a $25/person fee up until 90 days before departure for a one-time transfer of your payment. Transfer requests made 89 days or less before departure will be treated like a cancellation according to the schedule above.

Medical

Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problem enjoying an OARS trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approval before taking an adventure travel trip.

Travel Protection

Because there are costs that you will incur if you cancel the spaces on this trip that we’re now holding for you, or in the event you need to be evacuated during the trip due to an unforeseen illness or injury, we strongly encourage our guests to purchase an optional travel protection plan. A travel protection plan may help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid, non-refundable payments in the event you are prevented from taking your trip for a covered reason. Trip participants must understand that in the event of an illness or injury on a wilderness trip, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Learn more about the plan we recommend.

Please note: To be eligible for coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, you must purchase the plan within 21 days of your initial trip payment and you must be medically fit to travel at the time you pay for the plan.

Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. You can get a quote for this type of policy by entering a Trip Cost amount of $0 when getting a quote.

Please note: By entering a Trip Cost amount of $0, the plan will not include Trip Cancellation coverage and you may not be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense benefits relating to any pre-existing conditions.

Liability Release / Assumption of Risk

Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release / assumption of risk form before the trip, confirming awareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of your participation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign the form will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with OARS cancellation policy, there will be no refund of the trip fees at that time.

Responsibility – An Important Notice

O.A.R.S. Canyonlands, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating to transportation and/or all other related travel services and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss, or damage to person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, pandemics, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, and discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and wellbeing of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficient bookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly during high-water conditions. Rafts, dories, and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attempt to assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself or others. We reserve the right not to accept guests weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56 inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips. We are experienced in accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feel welcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time.

OARS trips occur in areas where unpredictable environmental conditions are to be expected. To moderate dangerous situations for our guests and guides, all travelers must obey the rules and regulations as determined by the managing agencies and the Trip Leader and demonstrate reasonable consideration for other guests and OARS employees. We reserve the right to remove any guest from a trip if, in our opinion, that guest’s actions or behaviors pose a threat to the safety of her/himself or others, or if those actions or behaviors compromise the enjoyment of the trip for others. Should a guest be asked to leave a trip, there will be no refund for the unused portion, nor will OARS be responsible for additional expenses incurred by the guest for accommodations, return transport, change fees, etc. Prices subject to change without notice.

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