A long, remote desert expedition through Desolation and Gray Canyons, featuring moderate rapids, expansive scenery, and exceptional wildlife viewing. Ideal for extended rafting trips with significant logistical planning.
Snapshot
Important information for this section of river
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Current Availability
The following dates have one or more sites available
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Last checked 3 days ago
Water Level
FAQ: What's the current water level for Desolation and Gray Canyons?
2,220 CFS
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FAQ: What's the ideal range for this section of river?
900 – 50,000 CFS
Key Dates
Here are some key dates to remember for Desolation and Gray Canyons.
May 1 – Sep 30
High demand season requiring lottery permits
8am MST
Dates not in the lottery open up on a first-come, first-served basis to be reserved beginning at 8am MST. (March - April & October - November)
Permit Details
A permit is required for all river travel through Desolation/Gray canyons between Sand Wash and Nefertiti during the typical boating season (March-November). During winter months (December-February), the river typically freezes over and is impassible to watercraft, resulting in extremely hazardous conditions for river travel. Dates not in the lottery open up on a first-come, first-served basis to be reserved beginning at 8am MST on December 1. (March - April & October - November)
Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Desolation and Gray Canyons.
Do I need a permit to run Desolation and Gray Canyons on the Green River?
Yes — a permit is required for all river travel through Desolation and Gray Canyons between Sand Wash and Nefertiti from March through November. Permits are available on Recreation.gov; non-lottery dates open December 1 at 8:00 AM MST on a first-come, first-served basis.
How long is the Desolation Gray Canyon river trip on the Green River?
The classic Desolation and Gray Canyon trip runs approximately 84 miles from Sand Wash to Nefertiti, typically completed in 5–8 days depending on pace and flow levels.
What class of whitewater is Desolation Canyon on the Green River?
Desolation and Gray Canyons are predominantly Class II–III, making them one of the longest accessible multi-day wilderness river trips in the West. The rapids are engaging without being technically demanding, allowing paddlers to focus on the extraordinary canyon scenery.
When is the best time to run Desolation and Gray Canyons?
The most popular season is May through September, with spring flows providing the best rapids and cooler temperatures. Summer trips offer warm weather and reliable flows but can be hot in the desert canyon.
What makes Desolation Canyon on the Green River special?
Desolation Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the United States and a designated wilderness area with no road access. The extraordinary remoteness, ancient pictographs, and diverse wildlife — including bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and river otters — make it a bucket-list multi-day expedition.
Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Desolation and Gray Canyons?