“What we get from this adventure is just sheer joy. And joy is, after all, the end of life. We do not live to eat and make money. We eat and make money to be able to enjoy life. That is what life means and what life is for.”
George Mallory
Green River through Canyonlands National Park and Labyrinth Canyon
Begins: September 24, 2021
Ends: October 3, 2021
This 120-mile section of the Green River is one of the most spectacular flat-water paddles in the country. Mile after mile of ever deepening canyons brimming with yellows, reds, greys and whites. The area was first explored by John Wesley Powell in the late 1800's. The area is rich in geologic as well as historical sites to visit. In many spots the canyon walls will rise above the water to over a 1000 feet.
Our group will start in the town of Green River, Utah. The first twenty miles is mainly Summerville Formation and Manco's Shale. Our first major observation will be the Crystal Geyser, which is a cold water geyser which erupts about 30 feet high. Its frequency is very unpredictable. The historic site of Dellenbaugh Butte will rise above the river within the first day of paddling. Named by John W. Powell for a member of his exploration party.
As the river cuts deeper into the canyons, the more geologic wonders appear. Entrada and Navaho Sandstone with its red and orange colors will make you wish you had brought more film for your camera.
Entering Labyrinth and Still Water Canyons you will begin to feel how small a person you really are. The Chinle and Moenkopi Rock formations will rise 1000 feet over the river like giant buildings in a large city. But only solitude and the occasional canyon wren will be heard.
Another highlight will be climbing up to Bowknot Bend where the river makes a complete loop coming back to a point where it is only a few hundred yards where it passed some seven miles back upstream. The view from the "Post Office" Register will give us a good view of how the river cut though the rock over the last millions of years.
Our group will also encounter the remains of the past. Looking carefully we will see the ruins of the Anasazi Indians who once inhabited this land some 700 -1500 years ago only to disappear without a trace. Looking high on the canyon walls and we will see their food grainerys and storage walls where they kept there food supply.
A short hike up Hell Roaring Canyon and we’ll find the inscription of trapper Denis Julien who passed though here etching his name and the date of "1836 3 Mai" along with a sun and boat on the canyon wall.
On our last day on the river we will reach the confluence of the Green and the Colorado Rivers. I have arranged for a jet boat to pick us and our boats up. This boat will take us up the Colorado River to Moab. After a week on the water it will be time to hit the Brew Pubs. We will again stay at the Bowen motel. Our shuttle will depart at 7am. on the 10th. We should arrive at the airport by noon.
References:
Belknap’s Revised Waterproof Canyonlands River Guide. $15.
Collapse, by Jarred Diamond
Down the river, by Edward Abbey
Down the Great Unknown: John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon. By Edward Dolnick
Additional Information
Our van picks everyone up at The Salt Lake City International Airport at 11:00am on the 24th. The van will return to the airport at 1pm on the 4th.
*We are limiting the group size to 10 paddlers. We believe this will add to the wilderness experience.
*Space is limited, pack light, think small, and know that you will be carrying 3-5 gallons of water in your boat. (Canoes rock!)
This is a friends only river float. All expenses are split evenly amongst all of us.
PRIMARY GEAR LIST FOR PARTICIPANTS
Small day pack or fanny pack
Compass
First Aid kit
Duct Tape
Pain reliever
Personal medical supplies (Prescriptions, inhaler, antibiotics, etc.)
Water bottles
Flashlight or head lamp
Spare batteries
Sunglasses
Prescription Glasses/Contact lenses and supplies
Tent
Spare tent stakes
Ground Cloth
Sleeping Bag (Temperature appropriate)
Camp pillow or stuff bag to fill with clothing to serve as pillow
Sleeping pad
Waterproof stuff bag for sleeping bag
Waterproof stuff sacks (For clothing and other gear)
Equipment repair supplies
Leatherman™ or Multi™ tool
Knife, fork, spoon
Knife (Swiss Army™ or good a folding model)
Cup
Plate
Feminine hygiene products
Toilet paper
Trowel
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Hair brush/comb
Biodegradable soap
Antibacterial gel
Pack towel/wash rag
Moist towelettes
Water shoes or sandals
Bandanas
Brimmed Hat
Mosquito head net
Raingear - waterproof/breathable jacket
Fleece or wool shirt or sweater
Light weight camping pants
Swim suit
Shorts
T-shirt
Long Sleeve shirt - light weight (Great for sun protection)
Underwear
Gloves (For paddling and warmth)
Sun Screen
Sunburn Cream
Insect repellant
Lip Balm
[Photo]
Optional Stuff (but nice)
Candle Lantern/candles
Books
Journal and pen
Playing Cards
Binoculars
Camera and film
Waterproof Camera Bag
Fishing Gear
Favorite beverage
Guide books
Snorkeling gear
snacks
