Westwater Canyon Guide
Black Rocks and Big Thrills: Rafting Westwater Canyon Guide
Westwater Canyon, often called "The West's Shortest Wilderness," is a thrilling whitewater rafting destination located on the Colorado River in eastern Utah. Known for its intense rapids, stunning black rock canyon walls, and relatively short length, Westwater offers a concentrated dose of adventure perfect for experienced rafters and thrill-seekers. This canyon provides a unique blend of challenging whitewater and breathtaking scenery, making it a popular choice for those looking for a memorable river trip. Westwater Canyon's history is tied to the exploration and development of the Colorado River. The canyon's name likely derives from its location west of the Colorado-Utah border. While not as extensively documented as Cataract Canyon, Westwater has long been recognized for its challenging rapids and dramatic scenery. Early explorers and settlers navigated the river through this section, and its potential for recreation was recognized relatively early on. Today, it's managed to preserve its wild character. The main draw of Westwater Canyon is its whitewater rafting. The canyon boasts Class III and IV rapids, including the infamous "Skull Rapid," which requires skillful navigation and teamwork. Guided rafting trips are the most common way to experience Westwater, and several reputable outfitters offer trips ranging from one to two days. Beyond rafting, visitors can enjoy hiking in the surrounding desert landscape and camping along the riverbanks. Due to the short nature of the trip, elaborate culinary traditions aren't typically associated with Westwater, but outfitters often provide hearty meals to fuel your adventure.
Transportation
Access to Westwater Canyon is typically through guided rafting tours. These tours usually include transportation to the put-in point at the Westwater Ranger Station, located off I-70 near Cisco, Utah. Driving to the ranger station is possible via paved roads. Permits are required for both rafting and camping within Westwater Canyon, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.