Westwater Canyon Permit: Quota and Route
Westwater Canyon permits are first-come, first-served in Colorado Plateau Rivers. The route covers 17 miles.
This guide covers the Westwater Canyon permit.
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Daily Permits
$10 per person, plus a $6 reservation fee
Permit Cost
1-2 days
Duration
17 miles
Distance
expert
Difficulty
About Westwater Canyon
17 miles of the Colorado River through a black granite inner gorge, with 11 named rapids and only five launches a day.
The Westwater Canyon route
- Distance
- 17 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- 1-2 days
- Difficulty
- expert
Colorado Plateau. Nearest town: Moab
Westwater Canyon permit detailsandAll Colorado Plateau Rivers permits
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This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Westwater Canyon permit?
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Westwater Canyon permits are available first-come, first-served. They can be booked online when they become available. Popular dates fill quickly.
When is the best time to visit Westwater Canyon?
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BLM says the river typically peaks near 20,000 cfs in late May or early June and recedes through summer to about 3,000 cfs in fall. Some rapids get harder at high water and others get harder at low water, so pick the flow you have practiced on.
How long is the Westwater Canyon route?
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The route is 17 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 1-2 days.
How difficult is the Westwater Canyon route?
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This is a expert route, extremely challenging and requires advanced skills.
What gear do I need for the Westwater Canyon route?
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Essential gear includes: All drinking water, at least a gallon per person per day, Human waste carry-out system, Whitewater-capable boats and rescue gear for Class IV, Alternate communication device, because there is no cell coverage.
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