Trip Description

Emerging from Slickrock Canyon the river enters Paradox Valley, an interesting geologic phenomenon where the river cuts across the valley rather than through the middle of it! This valley was extensively occupied by Pueblo Indian culture and was also famous in western history as a route through which rustlers traversed to sell stolen stock in the mining camps. In the spring, nesting waterfowl abound in the natural but unprotected refuge. From here the river cuts through Paradox and Mesa Canyons where one can view remnants of an almost unbelievable "hanging flume". Near the town of Gateway the river plunges into Gateway Canyon where some of the most difficult rapids of the entire river are encountered. Some 30 miles below Gateway, Colorado, the Dolores River unites with the Colorado River. You can combine Ponderosa Gorge, Slickrock, and Gateway Canyons to create one of the longest raft trips in the West. Day after day you will share the river with mergansers and great blue herons, exploring the desert from a unique vantage point. Exciting whitewater, fascinating geology, Indian ruins, interesting side creeks, and stunning sunsets will fill your days on this adventure of a lifetime. This trip is great for people that can't afford the time or expense of a Grand Canyon of the Colorado raft trip, or people just looking to truly escape the pressures of modern life.

Special Features:
Combine three canyons into the West's premier raft trip - the longest in Colorado. This trip is great for people that can’t afford the time or expense of a Grand Canyon of the Colorado raft trip, or people looking to recreate the wonder of a long raft trip through primitive country. Wilderness Aware is one of a very few companies that run a self-contained multi day trip. We take all of the equipment and food necessary for camp on the raft with us. We camp wilderness style along the edge of the river at private campsites.