Moab Pedal-Paddle Combo: Mountain Biking & Packrafting on the Green River
Combine a gravity-fed bike descent with a packraft float through Labyrinth Canyon on the Green River—one unique day of desert riding and flat-water paddling just outside Canyonlands. Expect rock-strewn mining roads, wide river views, and a final pedal back to civilization.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydration and sun protection
Bring 2–3 liters of water and high-SPF sunscreen—the desert sun is intense and shade is scarce during the bike sections.
Bike setup and shoes
Use a mountain bike with sturdy tires and wear quick-drying trail shoes; you'll carry or lash the bike for the float and need traction on loose descents.
Packraft basics
Practice inflating and securing a packraft before launch; a properly secured bike and tight seams make the float safer and more relaxed.
Timing to avoid heat
Start early to finish the float before strong afternoon winds and high temperatures; spring and fall offer the most comfortable daytime windows.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Historic miners’ road viewpoints along the descent where you can spot mining relics and panoramic overlooks
- •An old explorer’s inscription on the riverbank—an unheralded marker visited during the float
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Great blue heron and river otter sightings along quieter pools
Conservation Note
This stretch of the Green River is ecologically sensitive—stay on designated access points, pack out all waste, and follow guide instructions to minimize bank and riparian disturbance.
Late 19th–early 20th century miners and early river explorers traversed this corridor; inscriptions and mining roads remain as evidence of their routes.
What to Bring
Hydration pack (2–3 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated on long desert descents and is easy to access while riding.
Trail shoes / cycling shoesEssential
Quick-drying shoes provide grip on loose singletrack and stability when entering/exiting the raft.
Light shell or windbreaker
Protects against wind on the river and cool mornings at higher elevations.
Sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential
Crucial for prolonged exposure across bike and paddle sections in the high desert.
Common Questions
Do I need whitewater experience to do the packraft section?
No—this is a flat-water float through Labyrinth Canyon; guides provide instruction and the section requires basic paddling skills and balance rather than whitewater techniques.
Is transportation provided from Moab?
Yes—shuttle service to and from the canyon is included when pre-arranged, typically a 40–60 minute drive each way depending on pickup location.
What should I wear for the bike and raft portions?
Wear breathable layers, quick-drying shorts or pants, sun protection, and shoes that can get wet; bring a light jacket for wind on the river.
Are bikes and packrafts supplied?
Yes—the tour supplies mountain bikes, packrafts, PFDs, and basic safety gear as part of the trip inclusions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to handle sustained downhill bike riding with some technical sections and light paddling while carrying gear.
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