The Yampa River in Dinosaur National Monument has it all! Action, excitement, scenery, history and it is the last major tributary of the Colorado River System that is natural and free flowing. Each spring, May through June, the Yampa offers thrilling whitewater, including Teepee, Big Joe and Warm Springs rapid, which is considered one of the ten toughest rapids in the country. Warm Springs was just a minor rapid on the Yampa until June of 1965 when a combination of flash flooding and falling rock from a cliff deposited debris in the river making the rapid what it is today.
The Yampa River falls an average of 12 to 14 feet per mile. The lowest rate of descent is one foot per mile at the launch point, Deerlodge Park, and greatest rate of descent is 31 feet per mile at Teepee Rapid. The Yampa River flows are totally dependent upon run-off from winter snows. As the snowmelt ceases, so does the water level. Therefore, the Yampa has relatively short, but wild season. During peak flow, the water can be very high and swift. In calmer stretches, the river meanders through canyons filled with wildflowers, rich foliage and abundant wildlife.
You can expect to see beautiful scenery such as "Tiger Wall", named for its black streaks called "desert varnish", which is caused from run-off that leaches manganese from the rocks, causing oxidation. In addition to rapids, the scenery adds a beautiful dimension to the trip. Imposing white sandstone cliffs serve as the backdrop to groves of Box Elder trees. Eagles and falcons majestically soar above the canyon walls.
Evidence shows this area was first inhabited by prehistoric cultures, then early Native Americans and later by miners and homesteaders of the 1800s. You'll stop along the way to visit ancient Indian sites and other places of historical significance. This trip has been selected by geology professors many times over as a field trip for students. So, if you're a geology buff, there's plenty here for you.
Itinerary Yampa River expeditions depart from HATCH's headquarters in Vernal, Utah for the launch site at Deerlodge Park. Driving time is approximately one hour. Upon arrival, you will meet your river guides, board the rafts and begin your adventure. There will be time for hiking, exploring, fishing or just relaxing. In the evenings, you can sit aournd a campfire and lilsten to the stories fo by-gone days. At bedtime, the soothing sound of the flowing river gently lulls you to sleep. Camping each night is along the river banks in spacious camps.
The Yampa River joins the Green River at Echo Park, the site of imposing Steamboat Rock. You'll continue on the Green River through Whirlpool Canuon and, the last leg of the journey, Split Mountain Canyon with Moonshine, S.O.B., Schoolboy and Inglesby Rapids to end your trip on a high note. From this point, you will take a short bus ride back to headquarters. The total trip covers approximately 70 miles.
Trip Details
Duration
4-5 Days
Location
Yampa River
Season
May - June
Trip Type
Paddle & Oar
Nearest City
Vernal, UT
Physical Condition Required
Good
Destination(s)
Colorado, United States
Rated Classes
II-IV
Guest Capacity
25
Minimum Age Limit
6
Distance Traveled
70 Miles
Inflatable Kayaks
Available Upon Request.
Hard Shell Kayaks
Experienced paddlers can be accommodated.
Additional Activities
Fishing, Swimming, Off River Hiking/Exploring, Volleyball, Horseshoes, Geology
Dining
All meals included beginning with lunch the first day and ending with lunch the last day. HATCH serves the finest meals available on any river expedition and takes great pride in their food. Designed by an award-winning chef, all meals are well balanced, plentiful and well suited for your outdoor adventure. Special dietary needs and food restrictions can be accommodated. Please contact HATCH in advance to discuss your needs.
About Liquor
BYOB for Evening
Rates
$735.00 - $889.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
Additional Rate Info
Group rates and custom quotes available on request. Youth prices are available for children 14 and under. Prices are per person and do not include sales tax or gratuities.
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This Package Includes
Boats and Related Equipment
Lifejackets
Waterproof River Bags for Gear, Including Day Bags
Outdoor Toilets and Related Accessories
Licensed and Qualified Guides
Coolers on Each Raft with Plenty of Ice
Water and Lemonade Readily Available. Plus Coffee, Tea and Juice for Breakfast and Dinner
Meals as Indicated
Land Transportation
Special Arrangements for Anniversaries, Birthdays, etc.
Help with Camp Set-up as Needed
Notes
On-river itinerary is determined by several factors, including length of trip, group preferences and camp proximity.
Not Included:
Personal Gear
Sleeping Equipment and Tents (These items can be rented from HATCH with advance notice for an additional charge.)
Fishing Equipment and License
Soda, Beer, Wine and Other Alcoholic Beverages
Guide Gratuities
Camp Equipment Rental
Deluxe Sleeping Unit (sleeping bag, Thermarest sleeping pad, camp pillow and ground tarp) $40
Two-Person Tent with Rain-fly $35
Sleeping Bag $20
Thermarest Sleeping Pad $15
Camp Pillow $5
Ground Tarp $5
Reservation Policy
A $250/person deposit is required at the time of reservation. The balance is due 60 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations 60 days or more prior to the trip earn a full refund less a $100/person fee. Cancellations 59 days or less prior to your trip are not refundable.
If you transfer from one trip to another, there is a $50 per person charge up until 60 days before the trip. Transfers made after this time will be treated as cancellations.
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