Gates of Lodore Rafting Adventure
Raft Dinosaur National Monument and the Green River in this multi-day, unforgettable adventure!
Overview
The Gates of Lodore combines exciting rapids, remote wilderness, astounding geologic features, and wildlife in one spectacular adventure!
This rafting journey on the Green River traverses through Lodore Canyon and Dinosaur National Monument with views of colossal cliffs while paddling thrilling rapids like Disaster Falls, Triplet Falls, Hell’s Half Mile, and an abundance of other Class II-Class III rapids, wave trains and drops. Lodore Canyon, at the beginning of the trip, sends paddlers through an exhilarating Class III drop, then through additional rapids and falls, just the start of a riveting multi-day adventure. In early June, rafters can expect high water when the Flaming Gorge Reservoir has its dam release. After the Yampa River confluence, the river’s volume picks up along with the splashes to expect through Split Mountain towards the latter portion of the trip.
Experience billion-year-old quartzite cliffs and features like Mitten Park Fault, Steamboat Rock, and “The Gates”, as well as hiking to waterfalls, wildflower side canyons, and forested campsites. Who knows, you might even spot otters, foxes, deer, bald eagles and big horned sheep along the journey. In addition to rafting, enjoy camping at lush sites with opportunities to hike and explore while your guides set up meals and amenities. The Gates of Lodore brings together human and ecological history, protected geological structures, epic whitewater, and scenery in one amazing paddling trip!
This adventure is great for families or friends looking to unplug and get out in the wilderness for a few exciting days!
Trip Options include a 3 or 4-day paddling trip or a 5-day Women’s Wellness Rafting Retreat!
This trip ranges in age minimums due to the water levels. Early June means high water season (ages 12+) due to the dam release of the Flaming River Gorge Reservoir, but after early June, the minimum age is 7+.
Women’s Wellness Retreat Details – September 9-13, 2024
This exclusive offering includes yoga practices, meditation sessions, hiking, forest bathing and more in between the spectacular river rafting fun. Experience this breathtaking trip with other like-minded women in a peaceful setting that let’s you embrace the outdoors and your own wellness journey.
THIS ADVENTURE TRAVEL TRIP IS operated BY Wild to Mild Rafting, AND IS An authorized CONCESSIONER OF Dinosaur National monument.
Trip Details
Day One – Meeting Point & River Launch
The group will meet at 8:00 AM at the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham (1041 S 1500 E, Naples, UT 84078). Enjoy the scenic 2.5-hour drive to our put-in at the Gates of Lodore. We will start our adventure with a thorough safety orientation and then we will hit the river!
Once you pass through the soaring, scarlet Gates of Lodore, you won’t be waiting long for some of the most exciting rapids in the canyon! Depending on how the river takes us, you may stop before or after the whitewater section. Either way, pack some goodies you can easily access along the drift. Fanny packs and other small waterproof bags work great for all belongings you’ll need on hand.
Look forward to a thrilling afternoon of getting soaked while soaking in Lodore’s towering scenery. Usually in the early evening, depending on the float, you’ll come to a beautiful beach backed by a lush desert forest. While your guides set up the outdoor living spaces (kitchen, camp chairs, groover- the portable toilet), you can settle in by setting up your tent. Once home is set for the evening, you’ll have plenty of time to lounge on the beach, explore hikes, start a game, or anything that means relaxation to you! Enjoy hors-d’oeuvres while the guides prepare a delicious gourmet dinner followed by dessert. As the sun sinks behind the canyon walls you’ll have a campfire to keep you cozy. Share stories or simply stargaze under the glimmering Milky Way. Drift off whenever you please into a deep night’s sleep.
Day Two – On:
Wake to the smell of fresh coffee and a crackling fire. If you’re up early enough, enjoy a breathtaking sunrise painting the canyon with vibrant, Instagram-worthy hues. After a hot and filling breakfast, the guides will get the day going by breaking down camp while you pack up your gear and tent. Once the boat is rigged, you’ll get back on the river for a day of awesome adventures.
Lodore’s geology and ancient history will astound as you learn about Dinosaur National Monument, and the civilizations and explorers who lived within its walls. The day comes with splashing your face off in the drops of Harp Falls, Triplet Falls, and Hell’s Half Mile.
Robust with knowledge and river cred, you’ll roll into another supreme camping spot for the evening. Whether you’re at the confluence with the Yampa in Echo Park, or in the rolling open space of Island Park, there is more than enough to explore from your camp. Ancient petroglyphs left by the Fremont, or a pristine few of the Morrison Formation- where Dinosaur Fossils are still found today, are waiting for discovery.
The end of your trip comes with an epic ride through Split Mountain Canyon where the river steepens stirring up constant splashy rapids. As we reach our take-out at Split Mountain, you have the choice to visit the nearby quarry where you can marvel at a plethora of fossils. Then it’s back to hubbub of Vernal and to life, as usual, only now filled with the memory an awe-inspiring adventure.
Important Note: As the river is different every time it is run, so is each trip! Depending on water flows, the number of participants, and other circumstances Mother Nature imposes, our itineraries are just an estimate!
Guests are provided with the following:
- Transportation from hotel meeting point to the Gates of Lodore put-in, and returning shuttle at the end of the trip.
- High-quality rafts & equipment
- Professional Guide in each boat
- Type 5 PFD which must be worn at all times in the raft
- Helmet
- Small waterproof bag for use on the raft
- Waterproof bag for overnight gear and personal belongings
- Camp chairs & games
- All kitchen equipment & dining necessities
- Healthy food & meal preparation
- Bathroom setup — spectacular view included!
- Hand washing stations
- Free Parking
- Shuttle
We will provide a detailed packing list via email before your trip.
What is not included on this trip:
- Lodging the night prior & after the trip. You’ll need to make your own arrangements.
- Travel Protection Insurance
- Tent (available for purchase)
- Sleeping bag (available for purchase as an add-on)
- Sleeping pad (rentals available)
- Showers
- Personal items
- Alcoholic beverages— Pick up before trip departure!
- Gratuities
A detailed packing list will be sent sent out prior to your trip.
For the River:
- Quick-dry clothing / swimwear
- Sturdy water shoes which must have a heel strap
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses & chums
- Refillable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- SPF lip balm
For Summer Camping:
- Comfortable, light layers
- Sun hat
- Tent & sleeping bag (if not purchased)
- Sleeping pad (if not rented)
- Small pillow
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sandals: Chaco & Teva sandals work best!*
*Sleeping bags are not included but can be added for an additional fee. They are 20-25 degree bags that you can take home after use or leave with us.
Other Items:
- Rain gear: Rain jacket, Water-resistant pants, Poncho
- Insect repellant
- Hiking shoes/clothing
- Personal items & toiletries
- Fanny pack w/ Ziplock bags
- Biodegradable soap for bathing
- Alcoholic beverages if desired in non-glass containers. Please bring it in moderation.
We’ll provide you with a large dry-bag for your overnight items. The large dry-bag is about the same size as a large pillowcase, so it works well to pack your overnight items into a large pillowcase to make sure everything will fit easily into the dry bag. This dry bag will not be accessible when you are on the raft.
For items, you want to access you on the boat pack those in a small day bag, and we will provide space to store those in a dry bag that will be accessible at all times.
Mornings begin with continental items such as fresh fruit and hot beverages followed by a cowboy breakfast straight off the skillet.
Lunches can be personalized as you build your own deli sandwich and wraps. They’ll come with sides of chips, veggies, dip, and cookies.
Dinner starts with simple refreshing appetizers ranging from Caprese salads to cheesy goodness chips and queso. You can expect a classic and delicious main course like freshly grilled steak, perfectly cooked salmon, and flavorful pasta.
Dessert may be gooey brownies or cakes baked in a Dutch oven, to the staple of s’mores galore. Timing for each meal, except breakfast, will vary depending on river flow, side hikes, availability of places to stop, etc.
Feel free to bring your favorite snacks along, especially if you have kids, to stay energized along the way. Keep your munchies with you in your “carry on” dry bag or in another waterproof pouch. We are positive that you will feel happy, full, and healthy throughout your entire trip!
Payment and Cancellation Policy
A 50% deposit is due at time of booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to your trip date. Cancellations made prior to your trip will be subject to the following fees:
- Cancellations made more than 60 days prior to trip date will receive a refund less $200 per person unrecoverable fees.
- Cancellations made between 46 days and 60 days prior to trip date are able to reschedule for another trip/date, or receive a NOC Booking Voucher, less a $200 per person cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made less than 45 days prior to the trip date are not eligible for a refund or booking voucher.
