Moab Rafting

Today we rafted 13 miles down the Colorado River on an all-day adventure with Western Rafting Expeditions out of the Moab Adventure Center. The drop-dead magnificent scenery was awesome as we paddled the canyon's class 1 and 2 rapids.



We also spent much time in the water between rapids, escaping the sun's upper 90 degree temperatures, as Ellen demonstrates here...



... and our fellow raft-mates show here...



White's Rapid is a technical rapid with large boulders creating an obstacle course which our guide, Sam, negotiated with expertise...



... as she regaled us with local stories, geologic information, and her charm. Here Sam maneuvers the raft as I capture it on my waterproof camera. Sam also joined us in the water several times, and even did back flips off the front of the boat.



I'm not sure which rapid this shows, but since we were busy paddling as we ran each rapid, photographic style points were far less of an issue than survival.



I've done many rafting trips across the country, but today's riverside BBQ buffet at Red Cliffs Lodge was the best ever, with all-you-can-eat burgers, hot dogs, brats, chicken breasts, salad, baked beans/chili, fruit, and many other sides, after which we hit this rapid...