Whitewater Rapids, Rapids, Rapids

Our guide is shouting instructions, trying to make herself heard over the river's roar. "Secure your gear and hang on — this is where the fun begins!"

We stash cameras in dry bags while she points the big raft at the boiling water. Suddenly the river grabs the raft and twists it sideways, shoving it toward boulders. Kathy rows with all her might, fighting the current. She gets the raft lined up just before the river rockets us 10 feet into the air and then drops us into the heart of the tempest.

Our knuckles turn white as we hold on, as we hold our breath. Seconds later we shoot out the bottom of the rapid. I marvel at the power of the river and feel relief that we're all still aboard — that we haven't lost people or gear.

One down and 25 to go!

We're rafting Cataract Canyon, on the Colorado River below Moab, where there are 26 substantial rapids in just 18 miles. Cataract is one of the most intense, difficult and rewarding stretches of whitewater in the world. It normally takes 3-7 days to do the trip, the majority of the time spent on relaxing flatwater that snakes through deep, scenic gorges in Canyonlands National Park. The rapids are located on the lower section, just before the river dumps into Lake Powell.

River guides now offer an option for us excitement junkies. They will take you over the flatwater in jet boats, putting you on rafts just above the rapids. You shoot the 26 rapids in one day and then take a small plane back to Moab. A week's worth of adventure, 120 miles of river, packed into a single day!

After a day like that I'm looking for a meal at a nice restaurant, a soak in a hot tub, and then a firm mattress.

The next day, maybe I'll climb into a Hummer and challenge some of the most difficult 4X4 routes in the world. Or perhaps mountain bike the Slickrock or other intense trails, or hike the Devil's Garden in Arches National Park.

World-class adventure — just another day at Moab.

May and June are ideal months for these activities, and for camping, auto touring, hiking, biking and sight seeing in our other national parks and play areas.

Watch our slide show depicting the Cataract trip.

Give us a call and let us book your next adventure: 1-888-881-1120.

— Dave Webb

Upcoming Major Events

San Rafael Swell Mountain Bike Festival will begin May 14th at John Wesley Powell Museum in Green River. A variety of rides are offered, with something suitable for every experience level. There will also be a Dutch Oven dinner and other activities.

Great Salt Lake Bird Festival runs May 14-22 in Farmington and around the lake's shoreline. This festival provides a great opportunity to view and learn about birds and the lake ecosystem. There are activities and events for all ages.

Cycle Salt Lake Century will be May 15. The Cycle Salt Lake Century is Northern Utah's premier spring bicycle event. It features 31, 67 and 100 mile options for riders of all ages and abilties. It is a great first century with mostly flat terrain through majestic rural vistas from SLC North to and including a ride.

Moab Steelbender Triathlon will be May 22. This classic race involves swimming 1500 meters in Ken's Lake, biking 20k on Flat Pass Trail (nicknamed "The Steelbender"), and running 10k in the foothills of Spanish Valley above the city of Moab. This is without a doubt one of the most scenic triathlons ever.

Scandinavian Heritage Festival will be May 28-29 in Ephraim. Contact June Crane for booth information 435-283-4298 5/28 9 - 12 Conference continues Celebrate the rich Scandinavian heritage with ethnic foods, crafts, exhibits, story telling, entertainment and a parade.

Old Ephraim's Mountain Man Rendezvous will be May 28-31 in Hyrum. Come join one of the largest gatherings of mountain men in the West. The event recreates the adventure and rugged spirit of a bygone era. See primative archery and shooting, kids games, candy canons, Dutch-oven cooking, and trader's row (pre-1840).

Moab Arts Festival runs May 29-30. This annual arts and crafts show draws regional and even national artists and provides a wide range of activities.

National Trails Day Hike Down Big Mountain will be June 5 in Salt Lake City. The Utah Historic Trails Consortium will host the hike along a segment of the Mormon, California, and Pony Express trails. Contact Ron Andersen: 801-969-4698.

Free Fishing Day will be June 5 in Utah. Anglers will not need a license to fish on this day only. All other regulations will be enforced. Fishing clinics and derbies will be held at many locations around the state. Watch our fishing report for details.

Park City Marathon will Jun. 12. This 26.2 mile race winds into and beyond Park City. Scenic and challenging, it begins at 6,375 feet and rises to 7,041 at mile 17. It uses 13 miles of trails as it runs through mountain meadows, past ranches, streams and into historic Old Town. Contact Russell Schwartz: 435-647 0314.

National ATV Jamboree will begin June 21 in Fillmore, Utah. People from all over the country will enjoy designated rides, food and other events.

Fourth of July celebrations will take place in all of Utah's cities and larger towns, and in many small communities. Visitors are always welcome to join the festivities. Panguitch, in the heart of national park country, offers a full schedule of activities that are typical of what you'll find at other Utah communities, including a pancake breakfast, youth parade, youth rodeo, dance and fireworks display.

Festival of the American West will be July 30-Aug 7 at the American West Heritage Center, Logan. This is one of the premier Old West events in the US and features Native American lore, mountain men, cowboys, Dutch Oven cooking, military displays and many more activities/attractions.

Check our comprehensive events listing for other activities.

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