Zion Canyon was carved by the Virgin River that runs through its heart. This undammed river swells and retracts depending upon rainfall, the winter snowpack and the time of year. Spring offers the best waters, as in the dry months the river can become little more than a low stream too shallow to support rafting or kayaking.
The river is currently too shallow to raft or kayak, so those who wish to explore the Virgin within Zion need to hike it. But nearby rivers offer great alternative opportunities. Two of our favorites are the Green River, and, of course, the Colorado. Check with the Visitors Center for a list of local guides.
Green River
The Green River offers a variety of rafting experiences including guided and unguided tours. The section of the Green River where it runs past Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area sports Class 1 and Class II whitewater. Further down, where it feeds into Dinosaur National Monument the rapids offer Class I to Class IV rides. Keep floating downriver to Desolation and Gray Canyons, that, together feature 60 rapids from Class I to Class III. Outfitters can be found in Price and at Green River. Many people looking for a milder experience guide themselves through the Green River Daily section of the river just above the town of Green River which offers Class I and Class II whitewater.
Dorie Down Desolation Canyon
Moki Mac River Expeditions pulls out the dories, small flat-bottomed boats used by fresh and saltwater fisherman for centuries, in a unique float down Desolation Canyon on the Green River. The colorful wooden boats can hold up to four people each. I’ve seen ocean fishermen arriving to shore in these fleet fleets, literally surfing in as they cut their engines to catch a waves. The dorie floats and bobs like a cork making this one of the most fun watercrafts to ride the Green River. The company is owned by three brothers whose father began organizing rafting groups on the river in 1947.
