Colorado Plateau Rivers Permits
Desert river adventures through Utah and Colorado.
Signature Experiences
The most sought-after permits in Colorado Rivers
GC Rafting
“Raft through nearly two billion years of Earth's history, past 47 major rapids, hidden waterfalls, and ancient civilizations—accessible only by river.”
Smith
“Multi-day river adventure through Colorado Rivers.”
Yampa
“Multi-day river adventure through Colorado Rivers.”
All Permits
Select a permit to learn more and set up alerts
Colorado River (Grand Canyon)
The ultimate river trip—225 miles through the heart of the Grand Canyon, past billion-year-old rock, world-class rapids, and hidden waterfalls only accessible by river.
Smith River
Montana's most sought-after wilderness float.
Dinosaur NM Yampa River
Last free-flowing river in Colorado system.
Rogue River
Oregon's premier wilderness river with lodges and rapids.
Desolation & Gray Canyons
Green River through Utah. 84 miles.
Dinosaur NM Green River
Through Dinosaur National Monument.
Lower Grand Canyon (Diamond Creek to Pearce Ferry)
52-mile Lower Grand Canyon river trip from Diamond Creek to Pearce Ferry. Separate permit system with easier lottery odds than the full canyon.
San Juan River
Utah desert river through Monument Valley area.
Owyhee River
Remote Oregon desert canyon river.
Deschutes River
Central Oregon river with Class II-III rapids.
Other Wild & Scenic Rivers Areas
Explore more wilderness permits in the region
Colorado Rivers Permit FAQ
What permits are required for Colorado Plateau Rivers?
Colorado Plateau Rivers requires permits for various activities including GC Rafting, Lower GC, Desolation, Gates of Lodore, Yampa, and 5 more. Each permit has different requirements and booking processes.
How do I get a permit for Colorado Plateau Rivers?
Permits for Colorado Plateau Rivers are available through Lottery, Reservation, First-Come, First-Served systems. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When should I apply for Colorado Plateau Rivers permits?
Timing varies by permit type. Lottery permits typically open months in advance, while reservation permits release on a rolling basis. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to never miss an opening.
Permit Directory
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Sierra Nevada, Lost Coast, and backcountry access
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USFS wilderness areas with quota systems
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Multi-day point-to-point traverses and epic long-distance trails
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Multi-day rafting and river access permits
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High-altitude summit permits and technical climbing routes