Cataract Canyon

Duration:

9 minutes, 34 seconds

Get ready for your backcountry whitewater trip to Cataract Canyon. Helpful tips and advice provided in this video will help you plan your trip and Leave No Trace while out in these pristine areas.

 

Low water level complicating Cataract Canyon takeouts

Since Lake Powell's water level is so low, the river is cutting into lake sediments at the North Wash Boat Ramp (AKA Dirty Devil). It is a primitive, unimproved dirt take-out. You will not be able to back a trailer down the dirt slope. Recent washouts have further deteriorated conditions. Taking out may require lengthy efforts to pull boats out of the river. As boaters approach the lake, coordinate your take out times to reduce congestion or plan to continue down lake.

 

Cataract Canyon contains 14 miles of rapids ranging in difficulty up to Class V. It is a particularly hazardous and isolated section of the Colorado River and is subject to extreme water level fluctuations.

You must have a river permit for all trips through Cataract Canyon. People interested in boating through Cataract Canyon should also read about the flatwater as these sections cannot be bypassed.

Most Cataract Canyon trips put in at Potash, Moab, Green River, or Mineral Bottom. The usual take-out for Cataract trips is Hite Marina on Lake Powell. Boaters should be aware of lake conditions as they will affect the final day(s) of your trip.

While hiking trails lead to the rivers from each of the districts, these trails are too long and rugged to be seriously considered for shuttles, even for inflatables and other lightweight boats.

Mussel Advisory

All boaters on Lake Powell must comply with Glen Canyon's mussel regulations.

 

A raft hits the top of Big Drop Two during high water

NPS Photo by Travis Poulson