Short answer: The Green River offers several distinct raftable sections. Flaming Gorge is a gentle Class I-II day trip section. Gates of Lodore through Dinosaur National Monument is a tighter, steeper Class III-IV multi-day run. Further downstream, Desolation Canyon offers a longer, mellower multi-day float. Each section suits a different kind of trip.
Key Takeaways
- Flaming Gorge, just below the dam, is a Class I-II section good for day trips and families.
- Gates of Lodore, inside Dinosaur National Monument, is a tighter canyon with Class III-IV named rapids over 44 miles.
- Desolation Canyon, further downstream, offers a longer, mellower 84-mile float over roughly 5-6 days.
- Each section has its own permit and access requirements, and each suits a different group and trip length.
- We run trips on the Flaming Gorge and Gates of Lodore sections, both launching from Vernal, Utah.
Flaming Gorge Section
Directly below Flaming Gorge Dam, this stretch of the Green River offers a gentle 7-mile run with Class II rapids like Bridge Rapid, Mother-in-Law, and Dripping Springs. The season runs late May through Labor Day weekend, and it’s the section most suited to first-time rafters and young kids, some outfitters take children as young as 5.
We run both a 1-day trip and a 3-day multi-day trip on this section. The 3-day trip is known for excellent trout fishing and a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to swim and explore side canyons.
Gates of Lodore Section
The Green River enters Dinosaur National Monument at the Gates of Lodore, a tighter, steeper canyon named by John Wesley Powell’s 1869 expedition. This 44-mile stretch holds three named Class III-IV rapids, Disaster Falls, Triplet Falls, and Hell’s Half Mile. We run 3-day and 4-day trips here, with the 4-day continuing through Echo Park to the Split Mountain take-out.
Desolation Canyon Section
Further downstream, Desolation Canyon covers roughly 84 miles with over 50 rapids, mostly Class II-III, cutting nearly 5,000 feet into the Tavaputs Plateau. It’s a longer, more relaxed trip, typically run over 5-6 days, and it’s a strong option for families or first-time multi-day rafters wanting more time on the water without heavier whitewater. We don’t currently run trips on this section, but it’s worth knowing about if you’re comparing Green River options.
Comparing the Sections
| Section | Distance | Rapids | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flaming Gorge | 7 miles (day trip) | Class II | Families, first-timers, day trips |
| Gates of Lodore | 44 miles | Class III-IV (named rapids) | Shorter trips with real whitewater |
| Desolation Canyon | 84 miles | Class II-III (50+ rapids) | Longer, mellower multi-day trips |
Which Section Is Right for You
If you want a manageable day trip or a relaxed multi-day float with good fishing, Flaming Gorge fits. If you want concentrated Class III-IV whitewater and the option to see Echo Park, Gates of Lodore is the better call. If you have more time and want a longer, gentler journey, Desolation Canyon is worth researching with an outfitter that runs that stretch.
|
Book Your Green River Section |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which section of the Green River is easiest?
The Flaming Gorge section, with Class II rapids, is the gentlest and most family-friendly of the sections.
Does Dinosaur River Expeditions run trips on Desolation Canyon?
No, we run the Flaming Gorge and Gates of Lodore sections. Desolation Canyon requires a different outfitter permit.
How long is the Gates of Lodore section?
44 miles, typically run as a 3-day or 4-day trip.
Can beginners raft the Gates of Lodore section?
Yes, with a guided trip. The rapids are real Class III-IV whitewater, but experienced guides scout every rapid and adjust the line for group experience and water levels.
Questions? Call 1.800.345.7238 or read more about our Green River rafting trips.
