Private River Trips


Private River Trips: Private river trips are organized by individuals on a non-commercial, cost-share basis. On private trips, boaters use their own equipment or rent boats and gear and share trip expenses. Government regulations prohibit individuals utilizing private permits from charging for guide services, trip arrangements, or amortization of equipment. Questions? Please call (435) 259-2100.

River Recreation

River Shuttle Services: Several companies offer shuttle services to boaters visiting Moab area rivers. The Moab Field Office does not endorse individuals or companies providing vehicle shuttle services.

Current List of Shuttle Companies

State of Utah Boating Regulations: The Utah Division of Parks and Recreation has the primary responsibility for boating safety and enforcement on Utah waters under the Utah Boating Act. On Utah rivers, every person on board a vessel must wear a personal flotation device (life jacket) of proper size and of an approved type; except on designated flat water areas where they may be loosened or removed. Life jackets must be worn by all persons from 1) Westwater Ranger Station to Big Hole and 2) Onion Creek to Drinks Canyon. Persons under 12 years of age must wear personal flotation devices at all times while on Utah rivers. Utah law also requires that an extra oar or paddle be on board, as well as a bailing device. All motor powered craft must be registered in Utah or in the boater's home state. Click here for highlights from Utah boating laws and rules.

How Do I Register My Boat: All motorboats and sailboats must be properly registered with current registration decals to legally operate on Utah waters. Boat registrations are processed by the Utah State Tax Commission, Division of Motor Vehicles. To register your boat, submit a signed appplication to your local office of the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles. A registration certificate, along with two yearly registration decals and two expiration decals will be issued. The assigned bow number must be displayed on the boat with the decals as shown on the Utah State Parks website. The bow number will remain with the boat as long as it is registered in Utah. The registration certificate must be carried on board the boat for which it is issued and must be available for inspection whenever the boat is in operation.

River Use Ethics: Please exercise the utmost level of care and caution when visiting desert rivers. The following principles should be adhered to during your visit:  

  • Urinate directly in the river
  • Carry and use a portable toilet for solid human waste
  • Dispose of human waste in approved facilities
  • Respect wildlife encountered along the river
  • Camp in previously hardened sites or on beaches
  • Pack out all trash (including fire ash, charcoal, and food waste)
  • Gather only driftwood for campfires

For private river trips, it is the responsibility of each boater to follow the highest standard of river ethics possible.

Additional Information: River guides are available through the mail or by phone order from the Canyonlands Natural History Association at: 3031 South Hwy. 191, Moab, UT 84532 (435) 259-6003, or visit their website: Canyonlands Natural History Association Bookstore. Further information on outfitter services, accommodations, and shuttles can be obtained by contacting:

Moab Area Travel Council
P.O. Box 550
Moab, UT 84532
(435) 259-8825
(800) 635-6622