world-wide-river-expeditions

Low Water on the Colorado River

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:55:26 GMT

Low Water on the Colorado River: What It Means for Your Moab Rafting Trip

If you’ve been watching the snowpack reports this year, you may already know: we’re heading into a lower water season on the Colorado River here in Moab. Naturally, that brings up questions—will there be enough water? Will trips still run? Will it still be fun?

The short answer: Yes, yes, and absolutely yes!

We’ve Been Here Before—and It Was Great

This isn’t new territory for us. We’ve navigated low water years before—most notably in 2002 and 2018—and in both cases, we had plenty of water to run trips and create incredible experiences for our guests. In fact, many returning rafters remember those seasons for their unique character: more technical maneuvering, slower-paced floats, and a closer look at the canyon’s details.

What Low Water Actually Means

With a low snowpack this winter and a warm spring that melted much of it early, we’re not expecting a significant surge in river flow as the season begins. That means early season trips will likely see the most noticeable effects of lower water levels. However, even in mid-winter—when there’s essentially no runoff from snowpack—the river still flows with enough volume to support rafting trips. That baseline gives us confidence that we’ll have sufficient water throughout the season. In low water conditions, the river naturally channels into deeper paths, which still allow us to navigate trips smoothly. While the pace of the river slows down a bit, it opens up a different kind of experience—one that’s just as enjoyable, just in a different way.

Adjustments We Make

To keep trips running seamlessly, we may make a few logistical adjustments:

Put-in and take-out locations may shift slightly to account for slower-moving water
Trip timing may be adjusted to maintain a full, relaxed experience
Routes are chosen carefully to stay within the best channels of the river

These changes happen behind the scenes and typically don’t impact the overall quality of your trip—they just help us deliver the best possible day on the water.

Safety Considerations

Safety is always our top priority, and low water does change one important factor: depth .

Because the river is shallower in certain areas, we’re more conservative about when and where guests can get out of the boat to swim or jump in. While there are still opportunities to cool off and enjoy the water, our guides will be more selective to keep safety in mind.

What You Can Expect

Low water doesn’t mean less fun—it just means a slightly different kind of adventure:

More intimate views of canyon walls and river features
A slower, more relaxed pace
A bit more technical guiding (which our guides love)
The same stunning scenery and unforgettable experience

Final Thoughts

Every river season has its own personality, and low water years are no exception! We’re excited for the season ahead and confident in our ability to provide fun and memorable trips—just like we always have. If you have any questions about conditions or your upcoming trip, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to talk river.

See you on the water.

How to Request a Date

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 20:13:53 GMT

How to make a reservation request for 2026.

Starting September 2nd at 8 am youth group reservation requests can be submitted using the Request Now button

on the Youth Groups page .

The official request form will be open by Friday to be sure we are ready, but any requests made before 8 am on September 2nd MDT will not be honored to be fair to everyone that has been directed to that date. Keep in mind multiple requests can jeopardize your information in our system when you actually make a request.

The following information will be needed to complete the request:

Please only have one person in your group make a request and be sure that the person submitting the request is the main contact for your group. Multiple requests from the same group can delay getting you a date.
If you want to travel with another ward, it is best for you each to have your own reservation rather than trying to work through one ward. Be sure to put in the Comment box the name of the ward you want to travel with.
Be sure the contact information is correct, especially your email address, as that is the main way we contact you regarding your request. Our emails sometimes get kicked to spam so be sure we are on your allowed list.
In the Organization field be sure to put your Ward name only if you are a ward group, Stake name if you are a stake group, school name if you are a school or family name if you are friends and family traveling together.
What type of Group Do You Have? - Mixed YM/YW or Youth Conference, Young Women's Camp, Young Men's Camp, School Group, Family Reunion, Small family group, Individuals, Scout Group, or Friends
What trips are you interested in? - Please see the trip pages for descriptions of each itinerary.
What are your requested dates? - Please be specific on a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice of dates so as not to delay getting you on a date. If you don't have a specific date, you can put your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choices of weeks in the summer and we can give you a date that works in that week.
What is your estimated number of youth and adult participants? - We know that you may not have an exact count at this time, but we hope you can get within 10 when you are making the request and update us as soon as you know your number might be different.

No deposits are required to make a youth group request. Your group will be assigned a date within 2 weeks of making the request. From the time you receive an assigned date you will have 2 weeks to get a non-refundable deposit of $10 per person to us to confirm your reservation. The balance is due 90 days before your start date. Any amount can be paid by the end of the year to clear out your budget if you need to, but any amount paid by credit card beyond the deposit, the 5% Reservation Fee will not be waived (please see the individual trip documents for more information).

How to Choose Your Next Adventure

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 18:30:29 GMT

Read below for information on how to choose an adventure with us!

The stunning Fisher Towers Valley near Moab is the perfect setting for your Youth Conference, Girls’ Camp, Scout Activity, or Young Single Adult getaway. Our trips offer a blend of splashy rapids, energetic guides, and breathtaking scenery, creating truly unforgettable experiences.

Currently all dates for 2026 are open as we don't start accepting reservation requests until September 2nd at 8 am. There are a few things we want groups to keep in mind as they choose a trip and decide to come with us. This is an outdoor adventure where the elements can be challenging and unpredictable. Flexibility is the key to a successful trip, especially when things don’t go exactly as planned. If you are looking for more of a spa retreat experience where you are comfortable every moment, this is not the trip to come on. If you want a trip with amazing views, fun rafting days on the river that can be cold and challenging in higher water, more of a float trip than whitewater in later summer, and where your group might be pushed to grow in ways they won’t experience anywhere else, then please take a look at the itineraries on the Youth Trips page to see what fits best for your group or family. As you are choosing your trip consider how long you want to be on the river and camping, the travel to our area and meeting time of the trip, and what type of experience your group wants. Early in the season the water levels are generally higher and have more intensity in the whitewater (although at all water levels it is still class II). The temperatures are generally cooler in early June for both air and water, with July and August warming up, but with less intense whitewater and more swimming time. Please visit this blog post about the seasonal differences in rafting experiences.

When you make a request for a date starting September 2nd at 8 am, we know that you may not have exact numbers. We hope that your estimation will be within 10 participants. A non-refundable deposit of $10 per person will be due within 2 weeks of receiving a date confirmation to continue to hold your reservation until the balance is due 90 days before your launch date. Reservations with deposits not paid within 2 weeks will be cancelled, although as a courtesy please let us know if your group has made other plans. Any deposits paid go toward the group total when you make adjustments to your numbers and pay your balance due 90 days before your launch date. Even then, on some trips you can make adjustments 24 hours before your launch time. We try to be as flexible as we can with youth groups as we know the number is a moving target, but please try to get as close as you can when you make your request .

The Butterfly Effect - Guest post from founder Richard Jones

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:25:17 GMT

In essence, the Butterfly effect can be summed up in the idea that small, almost minuscule, imperceptible events can have positive or negative consequences on events far in the future, as in the flap of a butterfly wing somewhere in the Amazon jungle that effects weather patterns that ultimately result in a devastating typhoon that hits Japan months later, or life-saving rains that bring an end to a drought to the same region.

Small actions can have far reaching consequences. Consider:

During the 1961 Cuban missile crises, a nuclear-armed soviet submarine – B-59 lay submerged off the coast of Cuba. Through lack of communication with Russia, the sub’s captain Valentin Savitsky, decided, on his own to launch a nuclear torpedo at the American aircraft carrier above him that was raining depth charges on his vessel. To launch, all three senior officers on the vessel had to agree with the action. One-man, Russian Navy officer Vasili Arkhipov vetoed the action. He has been called the man who saved the world. He exercised his veto power to halt the launch. The consequences of a nuclear war, had it broken out are unimaginable, yet, it came down to one man, with one vote. The Butterfly effect.

I think about the reality of the Butterfly effect in my life that put me on a course to do what I did in regards to founding World Wide River Expeditions and the tremendous positive effect it has had on virtually every guide who ever walked through the doors of the Moab warehouse or who have in any way been associated with the company.

I have heard often from the guides who I worked with from 1971-2000 of the incredible impact the river experience has had in their lives. Likewise, Steve and Nicki Hazlett who have guided the company since acquiring the entity in 2000 and nurturing it to the present day have also frequently commented about the positive impact the total river experience has had on the employees under their watch.

I think I can speak with authority in saying that no guide, from 1971 through 2021 – 50 years now, has not, in some form or another been deeply impacted, in a very positive way by their experience working as a river guide for the company either in Moab or Salmon, Idaho. Among other things, guides and associates have learned,

The value of hard work
The value of teamwork
How to interact, and get along with others
Taking responsibility for one’s decisions
Recognizing that decisions and choices have consequences
Leadership skills at an elevated level
Respect for the world in which they live
Appreciation for the beauties of the world
Acquiring positive, exciting, and adventurous memories that will last them a lifetime
And perhaps best of all – for some, finding their life’s eternal companion
Gratitude for the privilege of working in one of the choicest environments on planet Earth
Gaining self-awareness of their personal worth and potential as a human being
Growth in life’s perspective and gaining down-to-earth experiences that will assist and help them throughout the rest of their lives.
Learning the lesson embodied in the statement, “Yes, I can do hard things.” And not only do they survive, but they willingly come back for more of the same, only this time, stronger, and more determined, more resolute, and showing greater leadership skills.
Discovering one’s self, who I really am, realizing that I’m capable of so much more than I ever thought possible.
The list goes on – each guide could add to this list according their own personal experiences.

I think of Steve who was hired, but just barely, and what would the company be without him. I was in Houston/Dallas doing convention shows and in speaking to my office manager Bonnie, she said, “I just hired another guide, but he’s so skinny, I’m not sure he’s up to the job.”

And several years later, Both Steve and I were at BYU interviewing potential guides when Nicki came for an interview. With her, as we all know, the rest is history.

So, what was the impetus for the creation of the company that has resulted in so much good. What was the Butterfly effect in my life that set everything in motion?

It’s mind-boggling to try and imagine how varied and different the outcome would be for every guide that has ever worked for Worldwide River Expeditions if the company never came to fruition. Only the individual guide will know the depth of the change that would have occurred in their life, had they not guided for the company.

I’ve scrutinized my life looking for the Butterfly effect that I could say was responsible for setting the whole river experience in motion and I think I’ve found it.

It was a seven-year-old boy in Phoenix, Arizona in 1950 that went to the cotton fields to pick cotton.

Any guide, any employee who has ever been associated with World Wide River Expedition, who was influenced by their experience as a guide on the Colorado, Green, of Salmon Rivers can attribute the positive effects of these experiences to a small boy who answered an advertisement, from the Murphy School District in 1950, to meet at the school on a particular Saturday morning, to be bussed to the nearby cotton fields to pick cotton.

On learning of the opportunity to make a couple of dollars, I opted to go pick cotton, as did my brother and a friend. We had to bring our own lunch and Gunny sacks to hold the cotton and we were paid by the pound for our work. I was good for two Gunny sacks full of cotton, and then my energy and lack of enthusiasm for the work waned. I think I made $1.50 ($16.50 in 2021) for my day’s effort.

It wasn’t the money that I earned that day, that was important, but the realization that if I worked, I could earn money, and that excited me, even as a 7-year-old, for it gave me money to buy comic books – 10 cents each, candy bars at 5 cents each and movies for 10 cents each.

In 1950, my parents moved the family from Phoenix back to South Salt Lake City where they were from. Work was scarce for a 10-year-old boy, but I did secure a job as a Newsy, hawking newspapers on the city streets in Salt Lake. Papers sold for a dime and newsies got to keep 50%, or a nickel for each paper sold. If I sold all 25 of my papers, I came home with $2.50 in my pocket. ($27.60 in 2021) Again, the lesson learned was that if I worked, I could earn money.

I advanced from selling newspapers on Salt Lake street corners to having my own paper route. All through Jr. High School, I delivered papers, by bike, throughout my neighborhood, which gave me plenty of spending money, especially to buy clothes which were important in Jr. High School.

In my local church, I attended Scouts. At one troop meeting, in 1958, a representative from the Great Salt Lake Council of scouting came to our scout meeting and announced that the council was offering one week river trips on the Colorado River through Glen Canyon, now Lake Powell at a cost of only $50.00 per person. We needed only to bring our own clothes and a sleeping bag.

Of the twenty boys in my troop, I was the only one that had any interest in going on the trip. In addition to lack of interest, I’m sure the cost of the trip - $50 was more than most boys or their parents could afford. Fifty dollars in 1958 is the equivalent of $552.00 in 2021. The boys didn’t have the money and neither did the parents. I know mine didn’t.

But I had a paper route, which easily allowed me to pay my own way.

That first trip through Glen Canyon was a wonder to behold. I was hooked. In high school, I organized trips for my classmates and took several trips each summer from 1959-1961.

Following my mission – 1962 – 1965, I attended the U and BYU, but could never find my niche for a profession, all the while I continued to work as a river guide during the summer. Finally, in 1971 I bagged school altogether, hung my shingle out and stated to all the world that I’m now a professional river runner and open for business.

The rest is history, and 50 years have now passed, and thanks to Steve and Nicki, World Wide River Expedition is better and stronger than ever, but it all began with a seven-year-old boy answering the call to go pick cotton, which became the Butterfly Effect for many.

We all have a Butterfly effect in our lives. What was yours!

Seasonal River Adventures: Best Times to Visit

nikki@resmarkweb.com (Nikki DeSantis) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 18:41:25 GMT

Whitewater rafting in Moab, Utah, with World Wide Ride Expedition is a memorable adventure that promises a blend of breathtaking landscapes and exciting rapids. For enthusiasts and first-timers alike, understanding the best times to visit between May and August can make all the difference in your river adventure experience. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best time for your Moab rafting adventure during our operational months.

May

Pros: May marks the beginning of our rafting season, and it's one of the best times for high-intensity whitewater adventures. The spring runoff from the melting snow in the mountains leads to higher water levels in the river, resulting in more intense rapids. This month is ideal for thrill-seekers looking for challenging Class III and IV rapids.

Cons: The weather can be variable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 30-50 degrees F. It’s important to pack appropriately, including wetsuits and water-resistant clothing, to stay comfortable.

Highlights:

Cataract Canyon : Known for its challenging rapids, this area becomes especially exciting with the high water levels in May.

June

Pros: June continues to offer high water levels and thrilling rapids as the spring runoff is still strong. The weather becomes more stable, with warmer daytime temperatures ranging from 70-90 degrees F, making it a bit more comfortable than May. This month is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and slightly warmer weather.

Cons: Evenings can still be cool, with temperatures dropping to 40-60 degrees F, so layering is key to staying warm during early morning or late evening rafting trips.

Highlights:

Balanced Adventure : Experience both thrilling rapids and warmer temperatures, making it a versatile time for rafting.
Longer Days : More daylight hours mean more time on the river and opportunities for exploring the surrounding scenery.

July

Pros: July offers consistently warm weather, with daytime temperatures between 85-105 degrees F and nighttime temperatures ranging from 55-75 degrees F. The water levels begin to stabilize, creating more predictable and manageable rapids, making it an excellent time for group trips and beginners. The warmer water temperature is also more inviting for swimming and other water activities.

Cons: The peak season brings more visitors, so booking your trip in advance is essential to secure your spot. Additionally, the intense sun requires good sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and lightweight, long-sleeve clothing.

Highlights:

Family-Friendly Trips : The calmer sections of the Colorado River are ideal for family outings and other group trips.
Full-Day Adventures : Longer daylight hours allow for extended trips, giving you more time to enjoy the river and the surrounding scenery.

August

Pros: August continues with warm temperatures and stable water levels, similar to July. However, as the month progresses, the crowds start to thin out, offering a slightly quieter experience. Some sections, like Westwater Canyon, actually have better rapids in lower water later in the summer, providing a unique experience for adventure seekers.

Cons: The weather remains hot, so the same precautions for sun protection apply. It's also important to stay hydrated during your trip.

Highlights:

Westwater Canyon : Known for its excellent rapids in lower water levels, making late summer a prime time for this section.

Moab’s Weather

Moab’s Canyon Country is known for its fantastic weather. During our operational months, daytime temperatures range as follows:

May : 60-80 degrees F
June : 70-90 degrees F
July : 85-105 degrees F
August : 85-105 degrees F

Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, so packing layers is essential. Rainstorms are rare and short-lived, but a light rain jacket may be handy for cool mornings or late afternoon showers. Always check the local weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin.

Book Your Rafting Trip Today

May through August each offers unique whitewater rafting experiences with World Wide Ride Expedition in Moab, Utah. Whether you seek the high-intensity rapids of May and June, the warm, family-friendly conditions of July, or the quieter, adventurous vibe of August, there’s a perfect time for everyone to embark on a river adventure. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.

For more information and to book your next rafting adventure, visit World Wide Ride Expedition . Let us help you find the perfect time to create lasting memories!

Family-Friendly River Trips: Perfect Destinations For All Ages

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 21:40:35 GMT

Family-Friendly River Trips: Perfect Destinations For All Ages with Worldwide River Expeditions

When it comes to planning a family vacation, finding activities that everyone can enjoy can be a challenge. Fortunately, river trips offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty that can captivate all ages. At Worldwide River Expeditions, we specialize in creating family-friendly river trips that cater to both the young and the young at heart. Here are some of our top destinations and tips for planning the perfect family river adventure.

Why Choose a River Trip for Your Family Vacation?

River trips are ideal for families because they provide a unique way to explore nature, bond through shared experiences, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re navigating gentle rapids, floating through serene landscapes, or camping by the riverside, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s why river trips are the perfect family vacation:

Nature Immersion: River trips allow families to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The sights and sounds of the river, combined with the beauty of the surrounding environment, create a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.
Adventure and Excitement: For those seeking a bit of thrill, river trips offer opportunities to navigate rapids, swim in pristine waters, and explore hidden coves and beaches. The excitement of these adventures can bring families closer together.
Learning Opportunities: River trips provide an excellent educational experience. Kids can learn about the local flora and fauna, geology, and the importance of environmental conservation. Our guides are knowledgeable and love sharing their insights with curious minds.
Quality Family Time: Without the distractions of screens and technology, families can spend quality time together, whether it’s paddling, playing games on the riverbank, or sharing stories around the campfire.

Top Family-Friendly River Destinations

Cataract Canyon: Cataract Canyon, with its exhilarating rapids and stunning red rock scenery, offers one of the most thrilling and picturesque river rafting experiences in the heart of Utah's Canyonlands National Park.

Westwater Canyon : Westwater Canyon, often dubbed the "Mini Grand Canyon," boasts exhilarating Class IV rapids and breathtaking black granite cliffs, making it a premier destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Desolation Canyon : Desolation Canyon, with its towering sandstone cliffs and serene river stretches, offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, making it a prime spot for unforgettable river rafting and wilderness exploration.

Fisher Towers: The Fisher Towers, with their striking red rock formations and dramatic spires, provide a stunning backdrop for adventurous hikes and captivating photography in the heart of Utah's rugged landscape.

Tips for a Successful Family River Trip

Choose the Right Trip: Consider the ages and abilities of your family members when selecting a river trip. Opt for rivers with gentle currents and plenty of opportunities for breaks and exploration.

Pack Smart: Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water to stay hydrated. Pack layers of clothing to accommodate changing weather conditions. Don’t forget water shoes or sandals with good traction.

Engage the Kids: Involve your children in the trip planning and preparation. Let them help pack, choose activities, and even learn basic paddling techniques. This engagement helps build excitement and a sense of responsibility.

Safety First : Ensure everyone wears life jackets and follows safety instructions provided by your guide. Our trips include thorough safety briefings to keep your family safe and confident on the water.

Plan for Fun: Bring along some fun activities for downtime, such as binoculars for bird watching, a journal for sketching or writing about the trip, and simple games to play at the campsite.

An Experience The Entire Family Will Enjoy!

A family-friendly river trip with Worldwide River Expeditions is more than just a vacation; it’s an adventure that will bring your family closer together and create memories to last a lifetime. With destinations that cater to all ages and interests, our expertly guided trips ensure a safe, fun, and enriching experience for everyone. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on a river journey that your family will cherish forever. Book your family river trip today and let the adventure begin!