Mark Your Calendars: April 8-12, 2026

Experience the thrill of big water kayaking on one of the most iconic rivers in the Southwest — Cataract Canyon. In partnership with Mild to Wild Rafting, this raft-supported instructional expedition trip is designed for paddlers who are confident on Class III whitewater and are ready to take their skills to the next level.

Guided by ACA-certified instructors from 4Corners Riversports Paddle School and supported by the professional river crew at Mild to Wild, this course combines technical skill development with the adventure of running powerful, challenging rapids.

Trip Overview:

Over the course of 5 days, you’ll navigate the Colorado River through breathtaking canyon landscapes, learning to manage large waves, holes, and hydraulics that make Cataract Canyon world-renowned. With the safety of raft support, participants can focus on technique and confidence-building in conditions that would be intimidating on a solo trip. From the Big Drop Rapids to the glassy surfable waves, this trip offers a range of whitewater experiences that will expand your skills and understanding of big water dynamics.

Skills and Instruction:

Participants will receive hands-on coaching in:

• Reading and navigating big water: Identify river features, plan lines, and anticipate hazards in complex rapids.
  
• Surfing and riding waves: Learn to use river waves for both skill development and enjoyment.
  
• Handling holes and hydraulics: Practice techniques for powerful river features, including holes like those found in the Big Drops, Brown Betty, Water Hole Canyon, Can Opener, Gypsum Canyon, and Dark Canyon rapids, to name a few!
  
• Advanced boat control: Refine bracing, edging, and rolling skills to maintain stability in turbulent water.
  
• Self-rescue and group safety: Build confidence with swift-water rescue techniques, ferrying, and group coordination in large water environments.
  
• Expedition strategy: Learn river-running logistics, scouting rapids, and working as part of a supported team.
  

The Experience:

Between rapids, enjoy stunning red-rock scenery, beautiful campsites next to epic surf waves, and the camaraderie of paddling with a group of like-minded adventurers. With meals and gear logistics handled by the M2W raft support team, you can focus entirely on improving your paddling, enjoying the river, and absorbing the beauty of Canyonlands National Park.

Trip Details:

Duration: 5 Day Expedition Trip

Location: Cataract Canyon, Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Support: Raft-supported, meals, and gear transport handled by Mild to Wild

Prerequisites: Comfortable paddling Class III whitewater; proficient with roll or self-rescue

This expedition is ideal for paddlers seeking to push their limits in a controlled, educational setting, combining technical instruction with the unmatched adventure of big water in one of America’s most dramatic river systems.

Join 4Corners Riversports Paddle School and Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours for an epic adventure down Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River!