Family River Rafting – Page 2 – Dinosaur River Expeditions

Posted on July 6, 2023 at 3:50 pm.

Visit Dinosaurland and Vernal, Utah

Vernal, Utah, is a gateway to some of the most spectacular scenery in the American West. The town is located in northeastern Utah, and it is surrounded by towering mountains, deep canyons, and ancient dinosaur fossils.

If you’re looking for an adventure-filled summer vacation, Vernal is the perfect place for you. There are endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, and learning dinosaurs.

In this blog post, I’ll outline a 3-day itinerary for visiting Vernal that will take you to some of the best spots in the area.

Day 1: Dinosaur River Expeditions

Start your day with a Utah one day river rafting trip on the Green River with Dinosaur River Expeditions. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the canyons and get cooled off on a hot summer day.

Dinosaur River Expeditions single day river rafting trip takes you along the Green River from Flaming Gorge Dam to Little Hole. This scenic 7 mile section of the river takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery around, not to mention some fun class 2 white water action along the way.

After your rafting trip, enjoy a delicious Dinner at the Vernal Brewing Company. This brewery is located in the heart of downtown Vernal, and it has a great selection of craft beers on tap. Vernal Brewing Company is locally owned and operated, brewing all of their beers in house. Their menu is top notch with a great selection of options for all visitors.

Day 2: Vernal Rodeo

If you visit Vernal, Utah during the first part of July a must do is the Vernal Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo. This rodeo is a great way to experience the cowboy culture of the Uintah Basin. You’ll see some of the top cowboys and cowgirls competing in events like bull riding, bronc riding, and barrel racing.

Tickets are affordable, so this is a great way to see some live entertainment in Vernal and experience rodeo action like nowhere else as the top cowboys and cowgirls compete for their chance at the National Finals Rodeo.

Day 3: Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

On your last day in Vernal, visit the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Not only a great place for single day river rafting trips,this recreation area is home to stunning scenery, including towering cliffs, deep canyons, and the Flaming Gorge Reservoir.

There are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. You can go hiking, camping, fishing and boating.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, take a scenic drive on the Flaming Gorge National Scenic Byway. This byway winds its way through the Uinta Mountains and incredible canyons offering some incredible views of the reservoir.

Accommodations

There is a variety of accommodations to choose from in Vernal. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Vernal KOA campground. This campground has RV sites, tent sites, and cabins.

If you’re looking for a hotel stay, consider booking a room at the Dinosaur Inn. This motel is in the heart of downtown Vernal, and it has a swimming pool, hot tub, great breakfast menu and is within walking distance of restaurants and several museums.

Logistics

The best time to visit Vernal is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. The nearest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport, which is about a 3-hour drive from Vernal.

Budget

The cost of a trip to Vernal will vary depending on the length of your stay, your activities, and your accommodation. However, you can expect to spend around $1,000 for a 3-day trip.

Tips

Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for your time in Vernal.
If you’re planning on doing any hiking or rafting, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Bring a camera to capture all of your memories.
Be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially during the summer months.

Vernal, Utah is a great place to visit if you’re interested in dinosaurs, outdoor recreation, and a quiet small town with lots to offer.

What should you put in your adventure bag when going out rafting?

Posted on August 9, 2022 at 6:52 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

Outdoor water activities are a fun way to enjoy summer. However, being unprepared may ruin your experience. Keep reading to find out which items to bring on your outdoor water adventure.

James Green

James Green, Owner, Build A Head Big Heads.

Pack an Extra Pair of Clothes

An extra pair of (dry) clothes will be a welcome addition to your adventure bag at the end of a day of rafting. As much as you’d like to think you won’t get wet, you’ll be soaked by the time you get down the river. Having a dry pair of clothes waiting for you will make the rest of your day so much more enjoyable than having to walk around in wet clothes for a few hours.

Eran Galperin

Eran Galperin, Founder & CEO of Gymdesk.

Comfortable and Waterproof Footwear

Outdoor activities like water rafting are great adventures that you or your friends can do anywhere around the world.

Personally, I believe that you should make sure to pack a good pair of comfortable footwear in your adventure bag if you’re going to participate in water rafting. Of course, you’ll want to make sure that your shoes are waterproof and that they have a good grip on them too. This will help you to feel most comfortable during this activity. Wearing the right pair of shoes can prevent you from obtaining a serious injury too.

Dan Voelker

Dan Voelker, Vice President at Aquion Energy.

The Essentials

Here are the items that should always be in your adventure bag if you’re planning an outdoor activity like rafting:

2x quick-dry clothes/swimwear
River shoes
Head protection, like a sun cap
Sunglasses (preferably with a strap)
Water bottles, and hydrating snack bars
A towel for drying and a wind protector for when you’re out of the water

Tyler Callantine

Tyler Callantine has more than 30 years of river guide and white water rafting experience from all over the western United States. His favorite river trips are right in their own backyard — on Colorado’s world-famous Yampa River and Green River through the Gates of Lodore. Find him at Dinosaur River Expeditions.

Rain Gear is a Must

There are a few items that I always make sure to have with me when I go on an outdoor adventure. A good quality rain jacket and rain pants are always in my kit.

I like breathable Gore-Tex material. It keeps the moisture off and breathes, so if I am river rafting I do not get too sweaty inside the jacket and pants. Good rain gear also doubles as a splash layer on a rafting trip or a nice piece of equipment for warming up if you get chilled.

Besides rain gear I never forget a good water bottle. Bigger is better and something that is strong and durable. A water bottle that can be dropped, beat up, and still work well is important.

Anton Radchenko

Anton Radchenko, Founder of AirAdvisor.

Extra Plastic Bag and Swiss Knife

Avoid unnecessary items. Just bring your clothes wrapped in plastic, your action camera because it’s lighter and make sure it’s waterproof. Leave the rest behind.
An extra plastic bag. During the rafting, expect everything to get wet. So prepare yourself and make sure to bring many plastic bags.
A swiss knife. But make sure it’s well kept because it may prick your boat and deflate it. A swiss knife can be a lifesaver, and having that in your belongings can save all of you during your trip.

This is a crowdsourced article. Contributors are not necessarily affiliated with this website and their statements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this website, other people, businesses, or other contributors.

Water and the west

Posted on July 14, 2022 at 8:58 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

How is the water coming down in

Lodore in the summer of 2022?

This poem is a great intro to how the water is going to go down in the Gates of Lodore this summer and many to come, “Cataract of Lodore” written by Robert Southey and published in 1823 based off of a waterfall in Cumbria, England was the inspiration for the name Lodore by Andy Hall (19), one of John Wesley Powell’s recruits on his 1869 expedition.

“How does the water
Come down at Lodore?”
My little boy asked me
Thus, once on a time;
And moreover he tasked me
To tell him in rhyme.
Anon, at the word,
There first came one daughter,
And then came another,
To second and third
The request of their brother,
And to hear how the water
Comes down at Lodore,
With its rush and its roar,
As many a time
They had seen it before.
So I told them in rhyme,
For of rhymes I had store;
And ’twas in my vocation
For their recreation
That so I should sing;
Because I was Laureate
To them and the King.

Water Issues

Many have heard that the Western United States is in a severe water shortage and drought. The amount of water in the reservoirs is scarce and at very low levels requiring a different way of managing water. Growing populations and climate change are big factors in this scenario. Knowing what we know now, the infrastructure put in place as early as 1931, the Hoover Dam and those that followed, Glen Canyon Dam (1956-1964), Flaming Gorge Dam (1958-1964), and other smaller dams/reservoirs not named, were not necessarily the best decision made to address water needs in the west. However, what has been done is done and so we are making the most of what we have at this moment in time. That being said, the water resources needed to manage the water further south than Flaming Gorge are requiring bigger more consistent releases from Flaming Gorge.

Dam Releases

Historically speaking for several years Flaming Gorge Dam has released extra flows on the Green River to initiate the Larval Trigger Study Plan put in place by Fish and Wildlife Service. It is optimally timed to meet the Yampa River Peak (near end of May/Early June) mimicking a more natural flow for the reclamation of Endangered Fish Species like the Razorback Sucker. Alongside these flows for the Fish, this year we will be seeing an unprecedented amount of water released due to the high needs of the Lower basin, Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam. Some rebalancing of water supplies between the Upper Basin and Lower Basin of the Colorado River Systems includes Flaming Gorge Dam acting on that need. Communities like the LaChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation and other communities in the American Southwest rely on the water supplies and hydroelectric power. Solutions being made, are bigger releases from Flaming Gorge to backfill the lower basin reservoirs to try to meet those basic needs to keep things functioning. Flaming Gorge has a capacity to store nearly 3.8 million-acre feet of water. It is reported to be releasing roughly an extra 500,000-acre feet of water by the end of summer/early fall, dropping it 10-15 feet by fall. What does this mean for rafting on the Upper Green River below the dam and through the Gates of Lodore this summer?

Fun Flows and Great year for rafting the Green River

What does all of this mean for the less adventurists and the thrill seeking, river loving, outdoor adventurists? It means come go rafting because we have water and it’s going to be a blast. So, in all honesty, last year we had a low water year and it flowed at a pretty low water level all season (and we still had so much fun) this year we are going to see more water consistently throughout the summer. We want to take you on Lodore and give you the thrills and chills of a once in a lifetime opportunity that will make you want to come back over and over again. With higher flows, the rapids are still exciting and fun, we can often spend more time in camp, on hikes, relaxing on the beaches, and exploring our inner need to feel the peace of being in the middle of a beautiful place with nowhere to go or nothing to do except BE. You need this in your life, and we want you! To continue Robert’s poem with a little fun and child giddiness, as you enter the Gates and enjoy the Canyon of Lodore with as much enthusiasm as this poem, I can assure it is one of the best rivers to explore in the Western United States.

From its sources which well
In the tarn on the fell;
From its fountains
In the mountains,
Its rills and its gills;
Through moss and through brake,
It runs and it creeps
For a while, till it sleeps
In its own little lake.
And thence at departing,
Awakening and starting,
It runs through the reeds,
And away it proceeds,
Through meadow and glade,
In sun and in shade,
And through the wood-shelter,
Among crags in its flurry,
Helter-skelter,
Hurry-skurry.
Here it comes sparkling,
And there it lies darkling;
Now smoking and frothing
Its tumult and wrath in,
Till, in this rapid race
On which it is bent,
It reaches the place
Of its steep descent.

The cataract strong
Then plunges along,
Striking and raging

As if a war raging
Its caverns and rocks among;
Rising and leaping,
Sinking and creeping,
Swelling and sweeping,
Showering and springing,
Flying and flinging,
Writhing and ringing,
Eddying and whisking,
Spouting and frisking,
Turning and twisting,
Around and around
With endless rebound:
Smiting and fighting,
A sight to delight in;
Confounding, astounding,
Dizzying and deafening the ear with its sound.

Collecting, projecting,
Receding and speeding,
And shocking and rocking,
And darting and parting,
And threading and spreading,
And whizzing and hissing,
And dripping and skipping,
And hitting and splitting,
And shining and twining,
And rattling and battling,
And shaking and quaking,
And pouring and roaring,
And waving and raving,
And tossing and crossing,
And flowing and going,
And running and stunning,
And foaming and roaming,
And dinning and spinning,
And dropping and hopping,
And working and jerking,
And guggling and struggling,
And heaving and cleaving,
And moaning and groaning;

And glittering and frittering,
And gathering and feathering,
And whitening and brightening,
And quivering and shivering,
And hurrying and skurrying,
And thundering and floundering;

Dividing and gliding and sliding,
And falling and brawling and sprawling,
And driving and riving and striving,
And sprinkling and twinkling and wrinkling,
And sounding and bounding and rounding,
And bubbling and troubling and doubling,
And grumbling and rumbling and tumbling,
And clattering and battering and shattering;

Retreating and beating and meeting and sheeting,
Delaying and straying and playing and spraying,
Advancing and prancing and glancing and dancing,
Recoiling, turmoiling and toiling and boiling,
And gleaming and streaming and steaming and beaming,
And rushing and flushing and brushing and gushing,
And flapping and rapping and clapping and slapping,
And curling and whirling and purling and twirling,
And thumping and plumping and bumping and jumping,
And dashing and flashing and splashing and clashing;
And so never ending, but always descending,
Sounds and motions for ever and ever are blending
All at once and all o’er, with a mighty uproar, –
And this way the water comes down at Lodore.

And so it is,

The Gates of Lodore

LET’S GO RAFTING!!

River Guiding In My Hometown

Posted on March 5, 2022 at 8:43 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

Guiding in my Hometown

*Who am I?
I am a river lover! My name is Kassie Robbins, I am 38 years old. I am married and
have three young children. My two boys are ages 9 and 7, and my daughter is 4. I have
been a whitewater raft guide since I was about 20 years old. I started guiding in
southern Utah on the Colorado River and the Green River. My first experience with
seeing river guides was on the Green River Gates of Lodore at a very young age, maybe 11. We
were taking a private family river trip down that section of the Green River through the heart of Dinosaur National Monument. The Hatch
River Expeditions crew was camping at Jones Hole. I saw those boats and knew then
that I wanted to become a river guide. Coming from a family of river runners I had no
idea I would land here. I had intentions of making it into the Grand Canyon. However, I
find this place to be as serene and unique as any river I have traversed and that is why I
keep coming back.
*Why I choose to guide here?
I choose Dinosaur National Monument as a place to guide for several reasons. Not only is it one of the best places for white water rafting in Colorado or river rafting in Utah but it is my backyard. One of the biggest reasons of those being that I get to be home regularly with my kiddos. They get to see mom in
action which is really cool. I get to embrace the beauty that surrounds me year-round.
Being able to take advantage of the monument and the rivers flowing through it is such
a huge bonus to my work. Sharing my love for the area is something that is within me. I
grew up rafting these canyons from an early age. We would run through Split Mountain
(the last day of a multi-day for both the Yampa River and Gates of Lodore) camping at the takeout,
sitting around a campfire, laughing and roasting marshmallows and sleeping in a tent I
have fond memories of this place and I seriously love that I get to share it with so many
people, but especially MY little people.
*Why I love working for a locally owned company in my Hometown?
Can we all say the word connection? Relationships are built on connections. I build
relationships on my trips and some of them go on forever. I still connect with some
ladies I took down the river in my first few years of guiding. So, to say that building a
lasting relationship with the owners of Dinosaur River Expeditions is of value to me, is
an understatement. They are like family. They truly care about me, my family, the team
of guides that work for them. I have had many jobs and opportunities to work for
various employers and can honestly say that Jen and Tyler Callantine are literally some
of the best out there. They bring a level of professionalism and empathy to the
workplace. People work hard for people they respect. They have given me a gift of
being able to work part-time in between being a Mom. They understand the importance
of family! I also love the feeling of being able to give back to a small family owned and
operated company.
*What are some of the hidden gems of the area?
Being able to work in and around Vernal, UT, I have learned about many of the neat
places that exist. Some of the cool places to see are actually outside of the monument.
Being able to explore the area throughout the last 15 years and to find out I still have
more to see. It seems that if you are looking you can find a Gem just about anywhere if
you are willing to explore. Whether you like fishing, camping, hiking, sightseeing or
anything else that requires you to get outside, this place has a lot to offer an avid outdoors person. When you take the opportunity to come run a river trip with me and
the crew, we would love to share some of these places with you.

Water Is Life

Posted on June 19, 2021 at 10:22 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

WATER IS LIFE

By: Kassie Robbins

My Water Story

My name is Kassie Robbins, I am 37 years old. My life has been filled with water adventures from a young age, particularly river adventures. My mother and father met in Salt Lake City at the University of Utah in some round about way this meeting and their eventual marriage has led to my love of rivers and river rafting.

Parents

My mother was born in the heart of the river loving community of Vernal, Utah. She grew up in the Vernal with the Hatch Family. Her family rafted through the canyons close by. Her older brother Lory guided for Western River Expeditions for a couple summers. My father was thrown on a 28-foot pontoon boat and learned to row by fire on the Gates of Lodore with his new family.

My dad grew up in Ogden, Utah and is a rock guy. He studied geophysics in school. This landed him a job working with some cool folks, one of those being Robert Tubbs. Robert and my father both decided to buy brand new orange Rogue bucket boats in the early 80’s. It was an easy sell for both my parents. Afterwards, my dad took his first trip down the Grand Canyon. He was enamored by the gorgeous geology and became highly fascinated by the corridors of rivers throughout the world.

Childhood

Fast forward to my parent’s union with the new raft and young family we were towed along for the ride. My first river trip was at the age of 3 still wearing diapers. My parents were troopers with 4 kids ranging from 9 to infant. My life has been nothing short of an adventure full of rivers and excitement. My soul was called to the rivers.

I feel so blessed to have had the experience of riding the waves of the Colorado River System. I have had an opportunity to love nature in a very personal way. My soul was drawn in and at 16 years old my dream of becoming a river guide was created after seeing a guided river trip on the Green River in Whirlpool Canyon. The boats were lined up at Jones Hole river camp 1. It was Don Hatch River Expeditions. I thought to myself I want to do that for a job. It has since been one of my greatest legacies I get to carry on to my children.

River Guide

At 19 years old, I drove my little orange CJ7 Jeep to Moab, Utah in the summer of 2003 with hopes of figuring out housing or not and beginning my life as a guide. I had no plan other than working at Adrift Adventures and hoping to see as much river time as possible.

For two summers I ran through Westwater Canyon, Desolation-Gray Canyon, and Cataract Canyon, as well as the Moab Daily Section. This is where I wanted to be! This was the life! I was boating, listening to good music, eating good food, and meeting some cool people.

This opportunity helped me to understand the water issue and the drought of the desert and water scarcity and limitations. I remember more seasoned guides talking about the low water we were experiencing and wondering what that meant to me and what I could do. I figured that I needed to learn more.

At one point I was running through Cataract Canyon and the walls of sediment we were traversing through were once under Lake Powell. These embankments were being cut through with real time erosion as the river was making its way down the canyon. The embankments were sediment deposits from the drying up low lake levels. This was the first time I had seen this problem in real life. The river was not putting in as much as we were using out of the Glen Canyon Dam. It has only gotten worse since 2004.

Water and Utah

Water shapes Utah and the geologic uplift creates the perfect opportunity for mountains and plateaus to be eroded. I have spent the last 14 years guiding and personally rafting in Dinosaur National Monument. I have worked with various companies and have found my home with Dinosaur River Expeditions.

During this time, I have learned about the dams and the good and bad those bring. Dams generate power and supply cities with drinking water, grow our food and factories make goods all while overuse and pollution of water by the same ones receiving it. 20% of the world’s electric power is generated by dams.

I also wouldn’t have a job that gives me the most amazing office-space for the whole summer season without a dam. It also breaks my heart to know we have covered so many amazing things, from ancient Indian dwellings and burials to beautiful canyons never to be explored in its natural state again, to collect water in these reservoirs.

We can learn from our past and try to move forward being aware of the future Water needs. Water conservation is a topic that many want to skirt around because of the political ramifications that come with it. Water shortages are real and happening right before our eyes. Utah is in the desert. Less than half of Utah’s small amount 13 inches of annual precipitation falls as rain.

“There are two ways to die in the desert – thirst and drowning.”

-Craig Childs – Author

In Utah, 82% of water goes to crops for agriculture and livestock, 8% to commercial use, 6% to residential outdoor use, and 4% to indoor residential use. This means most of the water in Utah is for farming. The first step in gaining understanding is finding a way to become aware of the water issues. Then you can make good decisions on what you can do in your corner. Utah is not the only place dealing with water issues and what to do.

What Can We do?

If you are in Vernal, Utah before July 31, 2021, take a trip to the Uintah County Heritage Museum and go check out the FREE H20 Today Exhibit on loan from the Smithsonian. There is a lot of great information where you can learn how water is tied into almost everything we do. Did you know it takes 600 gallons of water to make 1 pound of cheese?

I love highwater as a river runner for a couple reasons, one of those being big fun splashy rapids, and another because I know we have more water coming into the reservoirs because we are running on low low low levels for the needs of our growing populations and communities. Let’s do our part and become educated and do our part to help conserve.

My soul is at peace when I am on the river. What kind of water story are you living and how has it influenced your life?

River Rafting With Kids

Posted on March 13, 2021 at 9:01 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

What to Expect While Rafting the Upper Green River with your Kids?

As a mother of three rambunctious little kids getting outside is a necessity in the summer. We love playing in the dirt and going swimming on hot summer days. We are lucky to live in Vernal, Utah with so many beautiful outdoor opportunities close to town. We have Dinosaur National Monument, multiple state parks, lots of incredible desert and the gorgeous Uinta mountains all outside our backdoor. One of our families most favorite things to do is visit the Flaming Gorge area and go whitewater river rafting. We really enjoy going on Section A of the Green River, launching our raft right below the dam. A day on the river gives us the chance to play in the dirt and get wet! Utah and Colorado have a lot of white water river rafting opportunities, but for a great Utah one day raft trip this is a wonderful place to go.

Safety

I have been guiding on whitewater sections for over 15 years. Safety is my number one priority when it comes to playing on the river. We wear personal flotation devices and talk about the important safety precautions needed while being near bodies of water, especially moving water. We do a safety talk and check for understanding. My kids have been going with me on this section of river below Flaming Gorge Dam since they were tiny tiny. This particular area on the Green River is a great spot to introduce newbies to the adventure of river travel.

Feel Goods

I have two little boys who love to be involved with all things rafting and river. Our little girl loves the rush of fun. We make sure to bring our water bottles, swimsuits, sunscreen, fishing supplies, rain gear and water guns. We row down the river and splash the other boats as we go by, the kids laugh and duck for cover.

Having a picnic on the side of the river at one of the beaches is one of the kid’s favorite things to do when we go. Though the yummy lunch is great, the kids are actually really looking forward to being able to run the beach, throw rocks, inspect bugs, bury their feet in the sand and try to catch minnows in their hat.

My middle son, age 6, loves using his hat to swipe through the water swirling in the eddy at the lunch spot trying to catch as many minnows as he can. His efforts often get countered by his 3-year old sister who runs into the water laughing, splashing and throwing sticks! My oldest son, age 8, usually pulls out his fishing pole and patiently watches the beautiful Rainbow Trout hovering in the water. He is hopeful that it will bite!

Rapids

Let’s not forget the exhilarating rollercoaster ride through the swift water. My kids love the thrill of the faster moving water with white caps rolling backwards. They hoot and holler, “Go big Mom, hit that one, wahoo!”

My kids know what it means to T-UP. It means to straighten the boat up, so it forms a T to the wave rolling backward. It is so the boat pushes through the big wave and stays up right!

Scenery

This section of the Green River has a beautiful crisp clear color because the water is being released from the bottom of the Flaming Gorge Dam. The dark purple Precambrian Uinta Mountain Group block canyon walls are staring down at you from up high. The beautiful ponderosa pine trees create shady break spots. The sun glistens on the water. At times we see Great Blue Herons lurking on rocks and waiting to be startled to flight. Sometimes a deer or two will pop out of the tall green grass off the banks of the river. Kids love seeing the different animals making their way through the canyon on their own time.

Lessons Learned

I am naturally a venturesome person and have such a great desire to pass along this adventure of rafting to my children for them to enjoy as they grow up. We spend a lot of time on the water and in the outdoors and I try to teach my kids the Leave No Trace principles to help maintain the beauty of the environment.

From picking up our crumbs after eating lunch to being gentle to the surroundings. My kids know that we are supposed to leave things as we found them.

After a few beginner trips down this fun and mellow section, my kids now feel like they need to row the boat. We let them with my assistance! I help them learn how to read the water and use the oars. They especially love being able to row through the little rapids. It makes them feel accomplished and builds their confidence as I guide them through the process.

What Can You do?

If you are looking to take your kids on a river trip in the summer. I can attest that a guided tour of the Upper Green River will be beautiful, exciting, and something you and your family will never forget. Come join us with your kids and rest easy and know you are going to have fun.

Dinosaur River Expeditions and a Utah single day rafting trip is a great way to introduce your family to a new vacation favorite!

How do you mentally prepare for white water rafting?

Posted on February 26, 2021 at 10:46 pm.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

When it comes to extreme sports, there’s a fine line between excited anticipation and fear. You’ve probably heard a host of things about the exhilaration of white water rafting, and maybe it’s on your bucket list. But if fear creeps in the closer you get to hopping in the raft, breathe deeply. It’s normal to be afraid of the unknown, but you can overcome. We asked people with rafting experience to share their tips for staying calm, cool and collected as you approach your big adventure.

Alex Thompson

Alex Thompson, Founder and director of Festoon House.

Knowledge is comfort

When it comes to white water rafting, knowing the basics, and even some advanced points, is your best bet if you want to become mentally prepared. If you know the levels of the sport, the different river types, clothing guidelines, safety instructions, and if you have an experienced guide, this will lessen your anxiety once you’re already there.

Acknowledge the feelings
If you have pre-trip anxieties, acknowledge them but know that you’re going to feel better once you’re actually in the experience. As you board the boat and start the sport, your fears will be replaced with awareness and readiness. So it’s okay to be scared at first, but if you’re really anxious, taking anti-anxiety meds might help.

Don’t forget to listen to your guide
Having someone experienced is important in white water rafting, especially if you’re a beginner. To mentally prepare yourself, talk to your guide beforehand and ask about his or her experiences. This will also give you some comfort. Plus, when you’re already in the water, having a guide helps a lot in terms of safety and technique.

Make sure you’re focused
Do not take any alcohol or drugs before doing this sport. It’s extremely important that you give your undivided attention to ensure safety and reduce risks.

Torben Lonne

Torben Lonne is an entrepreneur, dad, scuba diver, and ocean lover who is deeply concerned with how we are treating our planet. He runs Divein.com, an online magazine about scuba diving and how we can all make a positive difference for the environment.

Enjoy the experience

Nothing beats the adrenaline rush of going on your first white water rafting trip. It may seem frightening as you imagine rocks everywhere and the force of the water tossing your dinghy like a balloon through the water. For many people unacquainted with white water rafting, the prospect might seem scary, but it is well worth the experience.

The good news is that most destinations that offer white water rafting are perfectly safe, including for entire families. I’ve been fortunate to go white water rafting a few times, and it was hours of exhilarating fun. The first thing you need to remind yourself when mentally prepping for a white water rafting trip is that the [raft] is actually made of strong materials and resistant to bumping against rocks. So forget the idea that it’s a balloon ready to pop at any moment since it would be almost impossible for the [raft] to pop during the average white water rafting expedition.

Second, it’s all mind over matter, since most of the fear will pass once you get in the water. The sheer excitement of rushing through the water and maneuvering around will occupy your mind, leaving no room for any fear. Remember that you always have a life vest, and the tour guides are trained to handle any emergencies. For them, white water rafting is a daily routine, and you should feel confident that they know what they are doing at all times.

Overall, just try to enjoy the experience, and the fear will pass. Everyone should try white water rafting once in their lives, just make sure to heed all safety precautions on your trip.

Simon Elkjær

Simon Elkjær, Chief Marketing Officer, avXperten.

Know what to expect

I have a love for extreme sports, and I know that some might get anxious and scared about the idea of white-water rafting. One of the best ways you can mentally prepare yourself for white water rafting, or for any new activity for that matter, is by knowing as much as you can about it before the said activity or trip.

Knowing what to expect will help you set realistic expectations and quell any possible myths you have [heard] about the sport. With that being said, it’s important to check information from experts, not get too ahead of yourself and listen to the guide who’ll be accompanying you. Though some may say what you don’t know won’t hurt you, when it comes to situations like this, it probably might hurt—a lot!

Holden Harris

Holden Harris, Founder and editor at PeachTown.org.

Create an emergency plan

People sometimes have anxiety about white water rafting due to the risks and dangers involved, but there are ways to handle this. Creating an emergency plan is one of the best ways to make sure you’re ready for the experience. Knowing what to do if things go wrong can help you feel safe and secure.

John Frigo

John Frigo, Digital Marketing lead at BestPriceNutrition.Com.

Keep in mind you’re in good hands

We had a rafting place next to us so we walked over there one day and had such a great time. [We] wound up going a couple of times.

I’ve rafted once or twice in the past but don’t have a ton of experience and nobody else in my group had rafted. They typically run 3 different routes with various difficulties. We were going to go on the tamest one; however, they were only running the most intense one the day we called due to water levels. After a bit of chatter about whether we should still go, we ultimately decided to go, most of us being a bit nervous.

It wound up being a ton of fun and wasn’t as scary as we anticipated. I think one thing to remember is most of these places, the reputable ones at least, have highly trained guides who have gone on some pretty crazy rivers around the world, they live for the raft and do it day in and day out. They know exactly how to navigate the river safely so keep in mind you’re in good hands. Make sure to listen to their safety speech. Know what to do if you fall out, how to react, how to float, how to get rescued back into the boat, and you’ll be fine.

Why do kids seem to love dinosaurs so much?

Posted on February 26, 2021 at 7:22 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

People from all over the world are drawn to our rafting adventures through Dinosaur National Monument. The monument boasts over 1,500 dinosaur fossils exposed on a cliff face in the exhibit hall. But what draws people—especially young people—to these mysterious creatures from many millions of years ago? We crowdsourced this question to try to get to the heart of the allure. Read on to learn more.

Alex Thompson

Alex Thompson, Founder and director of Festoon House.

Dinosaurs are cool creatures.

They’re big, they’re scary, and they have cool names. But aside from that, dinosaurs also get to do what they want — and that’s one of the reasons why many kids like them. They’re like the ultimate fantasy and they’re living the dream. Dinosaurs don’t have to follow any rules, they don’t have bedtimes, and they don’t have to eat their veggies before they can eat their dessert. For kids, that’s a pretty bad-ass way to live life.

Kids get praised when they say something about dinosaurs.

When kids mention dinosaur names like Brachiosaurus and Velociraptor, they often get praise from adults. They get things like, “You’re a genius!” or “That’s really impressive!” This reinforces their interests and makes them want to know more about dinosaurs.

Dinosaurs are magical yet real at the same time.

Kids love stories and they love fictional characters. But with dinosaurs, kids know that they existed millions of years ago. So while they see cool pictures and animations of dinosaurs, the fact that they were real definitely sparks their interest.

Mark Coster BSc Ph.D.

Mark Coster BSc Ph.D., Owner and Chief Editor of STEM Toy Expert.

Names are music to a child’s ears

Everyone has seen it. A 5-year-old girl can barely talk in longer sentences but has no problem rolling those big, complicated names off her tongue. They are not just “dinos.” One has to be specific, even if it takes five minutes to spell a name. The mouthfuls such as Micropachycephalosaurus, Huehuecanauhtlus, Propliopithecus, and of course, everyone’s favorite T-Rex – those are music to a child’s ears!

This unbelievable devotion is a result of multiple factors. Ancient, long-extinct species that roamed the earth millions of years ago, some of them bigger than whales, others more ferocious than sharks – what’s there not to love? But it seems there’s more to this passion than just the story of small, bad guys and their big, gentle counterparts. Kids typically love animals because they let them explore the world in an empathetic way. Dinosaurs take this love one step further because they have to do with the deep past that none of us got to see personally.

A child that gets into these majestic creatures can really become an expert, rattling down all the names and periods. Envisioning their features, habits, struggles, and surroundings is so much fun. Plus, it opens up room for other important conversations: what kind of natural world they lived in and how it was different from today’s world. All of that instills a child with confidence and brings their enthusiasm to an even deeper level.

Moreover, with all those fascinating fossils and skeletons, who can say they weren’t real? Lying at the intersection of science and mystery, dinosaurs grow into a symbol of power, freedom, and passage of time. A child can’t articulate it, but they can still feel and admire it!

Janet Ruth Heller, Ph.D.

Janet Ruth Heller, Ph.D. taught English and American literature, composition, creative writing, linguistics, and women’s studies courses for 35 years at 8 colleges and universities. Find her at Janetruthheller.com

Dinosaurs are unusual, large, and powerful

Children like dinosaurs because such creatures are unusual, large, and powerful. Children are small and lack power in our society, so they get attracted to dinosaurs, which are the opposite.

Also, children get a lot of exposure to dinosaurs in the media. There are television shows about dinosaurs, such as PBS’s The Dinosaur Train. There are also movies about dinosaurs, such as the Jurassic Park series. Such media get youngsters interested in dinosaurs.

Museums often have displays of dinosaurs. When I was growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, my father would often take my siblings and me to the Milwaukee Public Museum, which had re-assembled dinosaur skeletons. We could imagine what these creatures looked like when they were alive.

Uneaka Daniels

Uneaka Daniels is a 30-year veteran teacher who has taught kindergarten to 4th grade. She currently is a Reading Specialist who enjoys sharing all kinds of books with her students. Find her at Theuniqueblogger.com

Dinosaurs are mystical creatures

Children seem to love dinosaurs so much because there are animals they have never seen and have a mystical appeal to them. The pictures that they have seen of dinosaurs usually show large animals set in environments such as forests and on bare land.

Once they are able to touch replicas of these animals or visit museums such as the Smithsonian [National Museum of Natural History] in Washington D. C. they become totally infatuated. Dinosaurs give them an opportunity to use their imagination to create an unknown world with these animals.

What outdoor activities make great dates for adventure-loving couples?

Posted on February 9, 2021 at 5:06 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

RNature has a way of bringing couples together. No interruptions, no distractions. Just the beauty around you and a chance to focus on your loved one. We asked outdoor lovers to weigh in with their favorite outdoor activities for couples. Read on for ideas, and make sure that you check out our whitewater rafting adventures, too. The thrill of the trip against the backdrop of the stunning Dinosaur National Monument will bring you closer and help you create a treasured memory.

Max Alderman

Max Alderman, Co-founder of Scubanerds.com. He is an avid traveler who has traveled all over the world and fell in love with scuba diving.

Scuba diving

With 51% of Americans admitting they are terrified of sharks, what better way to get over your fears [than scuba diving] alongside your lover. There is nothing more romantic than getting outside of your comfort zone and getting over your fears together. It is important that you pick a dive operator with a stellar background, as the conservation and protection of the sharks are fundamentally tied back to the operator that you go with. It is also important to make sure that you are completely calm before going down to swim with the sharks, as they can sense fear. This is a great way to calm down your partner, and let them know that you are in this dive together. It will allow you to show a different side of yourself that your partner would not typically see in the day-to-day workings of your relationship.

Exploring and being adventurous as a couple is what keeps the spark alive, and there is nothing more thrilling than having a 13ft great white shark brush past you and your partner. You will always remember “that day you went shark diving”.

Tatiana Sorokina

Tatiana Sorokina is an award-winning travel blogger at Family Road Trip Guru.

Treasure hunting

Treasure hunting in line with the theme of the evening: “You are my treasure.” Depending on location, it can be tide pooling, searching for rare seashells, diamonds and other beautiful minerals, and hunting in various state parks and beaches famous for those activities, such as Diamond Crater State Park, etc.

Michael Humphreys

Michael Humphreys, Founder & CEO of Z Grills Australia.

Go somewhere you’ve never been before

Basically, any outdoor activity that involves a couple working and moving together is a great [couples activity]. Some examples include kayaking, mountain or wall climbing, paragliding, jet skiing, and hiking. Still, this will depend on what kind of activities the couple can do and prefers.

When doing some blood-pumping activities, try to go somewhere new instead of going to the usual spot where you’ve been going. Why not go scuba diving in another country or climbing a mountain you’ve never trekked on? This adds more to the excitement!

Bertie Cowan

Bertie Cowan, Founder of Effortless Outdoors, an avid hiker, camper, and a lover of everything outdoor-related.

Horseback ride along the beach

When I am not off on one of my adventures I am home planning for the next one. Here are a few suggestions for dates for fun-loving adventurers like myself:

There is nothing more romantic than being alone with your significant other on the water. Renting a canoe and heading off downstream armed with a blanket is the perfect way to spend the day. Take along a portable grill and enjoy hot food cooked on the fire served with a glass of champagne.

Camping under the stars sparks romance in every heart. Take a nighttime hike to find your perfect location. Set a fire, curl up and share toasted marshmallows.

If you are not far from the sea, try sharing a horseback ride along the beach. Bareback riding would make the date even more special. For those not familiar with riding, you will definitely need to soothe aching muscles with a couples massage afterward.

Laurel Robbins

Laurel Robbins is an avid hiker and founder of Monkeys and Mountains Adventure Travel.

Gourmet mountain-top picnic

I’d recommend adventure-loving couples do an easy hike to a mountain with panoramic views. Then, have a gourmet mountain-top picnic to reward their efforts and to take in the stunning scenery. My favorite mountain-top picnics include olives, chocolate-covered strawberries, home-made chocolate in heart shapes, and a small bottle of champagne to celebrate, all of which easily fit in a backpack. It’s an easy way to make your hike feel more special. It’s also a great way to surprise your partner.

Kate Moore

Kate Moore is a travel blogger at ParkedInParadise.com

Spend the weekend in a camper van conversion

Renting a camper van conversion for the weekend is the perfect way for couples to experience the outdoors and grow closer in a tiny home.

Campers allow you to park overnight right next to nature so you can be the first ones to hit the trails in the morning. You get an awesome camping experience, while still going to sleep in a comfortable bed. In the morning, you can brew coffee in the camper kitchen and relax in the secluded outdoors.

My husband and I have gone on many camper van dates. I love the fact that you don’t have to pay for a separate hotel and car rental, and you can even spend the night at some amazing outdoor locations for free!

Campers are fully mobile, so you can explore the city or National Parks during the day and settle down beneath the stars at night.

Matt Bailey

Matt Bailey is the co-founder and video host of MustDoCanada.com.

Ice Climbing

For those in Canada or any winter destination, frozen waterfalls are always popular to see. They’re beautiful and unique, like something out of the movie “Frozen.” But for those seeking adventure, why not make it a date and hire a guide to climb them.

In the Canadian Rockies, there are all sorts of frozen waterfalls that are popular for climbing, and the guides make it safe and comfortable. It’s hard work to make it to the top but with a harness, you’re safe to take stops and rest as you climb. It’s a great way to have an adventure, be in nature, and see some incredible ice formations in one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. Afterward, warm up with a hot chocolate or a bottle of wine next to the fireplace.

Anupama Singh

Anupama Singh, CEO of Fabulously.

A good plan and preparation

There are many ways to celebrate [your relationship in the outdoors]. You just need a good plan and good preparation for it. Let’s look at some of the things you can do to add adventure and excitement to your celebration of togetherness:

Plan for a bike ride in the daytime. You can choose a beautiful sunset location and have a bike ride with your partner to reach the destination.

You can choose to stay in a tent at night and enjoy the warmth together.

You can visit a romantic hiking destination together

You can go for a long drive without deciding the destination

These outdoor activities will make your time together exciting and memorable.

Jeanine Romo

Jeanine Romo is a solo world traveler who loves outdoor adventure. She is a podcast host, travel blogger, and content creator. Find her at Lewildexplorer.com

Hike to a secluded hot spring

One outdoor activity that will be a great date for adventure-loving couples is to plan a hike to a secluded hot spring. They can bring a beverage in a non-glass container and enjoy nature. If they are spending the night nearby, they can enjoy the springs at night, under the stars. This is a romantic and memorable activity that anyone can enjoy, even with the cold winter weather.

Critical Supplies to Take When River Rafting

Posted on December 12, 2020 at 5:15 am.

Written by Dinosaur River Expeditions

River rafting is a prime way to reconnect with nature, spend time with loved ones away from distractions, and inject adventure into your life. The difference between a good trip and a bad trip, however, ties back to preparation. Before you head out on the water, read these tips from people who have learned from experience (and sometimes regrets) what not to forget.

Shannon Serpette

Shannon Serpette, Chief Editor at Mom Loves Best.

Here are a few essentials

River rafting is a great opportunity for parents to spend some time with their children in an outdoor setting away from electronics. I took my own children recently on a river rafting trip with another family, and I learned I wasn’t as prepared as I thought I was.

Our trip was supposed to be four hours, but so many things went wrong that the entire trip actually lasted just over six hours. We had a few essentials with us, but there were other things we should have brought as well. Here is what I recommend having on hand:

Water

Water is essential, especially if you’re out in the hot sun or your trip is an extended one.

Sunblock

You might think you won’t need sunblock if your trip is going to be shorter, but you should still bring a bottle. Your trip may not go as quickly as planned or you may be splashed more than anticipated, leading to your sunblock wearing off faster. Ideally, pick one that’s eco-friendly.

Phone

Bring your phone with you in a water-proof case. You never know when you might need it in case of emergencies.

Snacks

Having some food on hand can make everyone happier. Plus, it can keep your energy up for navigating down the river.

Life jacket

You may think you’re too cool to need one, but you’re wrong. Everyone should wear a life jacket.

Sunglasses

These can stop you from squinting the whole time you’re on the river. You’d also be smart to buy a cord, like Chums, that help your sunglasses stay attached to you.

Simon Hansen

Simon Hansen, Founder and Homebrew Expert at homebrewadvice.com, a company dedicated to providing quality content on the art of homebrewing and winemaking.

Don’t forget the sunscreen

What most people forget to bring when doing outdoor activities such as river rafting is sunscreen. Contrary to what people think, simply not being exposed to sunlight doesn’t mean that one’s safe from the risks of sunburn and UV light exposure. Sunlight bounces off of surfaces such as ice and water. Forgetting to apply sunscreen before river rafting means more than just getting a bad and uneven tan, you risk being exposed to harmful light as well.

Bob Hoffmann

Bob Hoffmann, editor-in-chief at BonfireBob.com, a blog focusing on camping, fishing and the great outdoors.

Thermos flasks

I would have to recommend bringing a proper Thermos flask that can latch on to your backpack for quick access at all times. Even if you are surrounded by water while rafting, it’s always good to stay hydrated. You can also fill up the flask in small streams and always have a water supply for the day.

Thermos flasks are also good to keep your coffee hot during the morning chill when you wake up after a night of camping, or to keep your soup warm later at night. So I would recommend bringing a Thermos for its versatility for both rafting and camping afterward, not to mention it’s more eco-friendly than bringing plastic bottles.