The Yampa through Dinosaur National Monument was featured in National Geographic’s “Wild and Scenic Rivers" Book. It’s the last free-flowing river in the entire Colorado River drainage and is incredibly wild in May and June. The melting snow from the Rocky Mountains creates roaring rapids, with an average rate of descent of 12-14 feet per mile. June trip is calmer and even a little lazy sometimes.

The Yampa River is a guide favorite and is entirely within Dinosaur National Monument. Enjoy the solitude of a wilderness river, an experience truly off the beaten path. You’ll float by Desert Big Horn sheep as they drink at the river’s edge. Eagles and hawks soar overhead coasting on the thermals. The scenery is dramatic and quite varied as the sandstone canyon walls change quickly while winding downstream. There’s time to explore some of the side canyons and see ancient Native American artwork. We pass the Mantle Ranch, a classic outlaw hideout 100 years ago, and still raising horses and cattle today. Camps are along the riverbank. All meals are prepared by the staff giving you time to explore the side-canyons.

Rafts are diverse to give a variety of experiences. Relax in the oarboat, team paddle in the paddleboats or enjoy the solitude of paddling your own inflatable kayak. Guides are in both boats while guides instruct those in the kayaks.

The Yampa and Green Rivers are sisters. The last two days of both journeys are the same as the rivers merge at Echo Park, deep within the Monument.

*There is limited access to the Yampa River; so few people have the opportunity to explore these areas. This river books quickly.