Our featured video showcases Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park, which has some of the biggest whitewater rapids in North America. During spring runoff on the Colorado River, the Big Drop rapids can get up to class 5, with the rest of the over 20-mile stretch of rapids hitting class 4. It’s technical, scary, and not to be taken lightly. I recently got the chance to experience Cataract Canyon myself on a shoot for KSL Outdoors, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
Along with the rapids, Cataract Canyon also features several side hikes along the way. Honestly, I enjoyed my time off the river as I did on. Trails leads from the shores of the river to ancient native ruins, petroglyohs, pictographs and astounding views in Lathrop and Indian Canyons. Just before the rapids, a hike to the Doll House is a must do. Huge sandstone towers rise above hidden valleys a thousand feet above the water. Slot canyons, caves and even more ruins are highlights. Best of all, this is one of the most remote places in America, so it’s truly a treat to explore.
We shot two episodes of KSL Outdoors about Cataract Canyon. You can see the first below:
Check back for part two next week.