🚣 River
Cataract Canyon (Colorado River, Canyonlands)
About This Permit
Cataract Canyon delivers 14 miles of Class III–V whitewater through Canyonlands National Park — including some of the highest-volume rapids in North America at peak spring flows. The approach from Moab adds 112 miles of flatwater paddling through stunning desert canyon scenery before the rapids begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to raft Cataract Canyon?
Yes. An overnight river permit through recreation.gov (facility 621748) is required for any multi-day trip through the Cataract Canyon section of Canyonlands NP.
How competitive is the Cataract Canyon permit?
Less competitive than most western river permits. No lottery is used — the park runs a first-come rolling system, and overall use has not exceeded the established limit in recent years.
When is Cataract Canyon most challenging?
Late spring (May–June) during peak snowmelt produces the most extreme conditions — Class V rapids at 30,000+ CFS. Late summer and fall offer lower, more manageable flows for less experienced groups.
How long is a full Cataract Canyon trip from Moab?
Launching from Moab adds roughly 112 miles of flatwater paddling through stunning desert canyon scenery before the Cataract rapids begin, making the full trip 5–7 days. Many groups motorboat up from Hite to access only the rapids section.
Key Facts
- State
- UT
- Float Season
- Year-round
- Launch Quota
- No daily launch limits; maximum 40 people per group; online reservations through recreation.gov up to 4 months in advance, close 2 days before launch
- Put-in
- Moab / Mineral Bottom (put-in options)
- Take-out
- Colorado River put-in above Moab, or Green River via Mineral Bottom
- Difficulty to get permit
- 2/5(Moderate)
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