BASIC TRIP INFORMATION
RIVER INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW*
ENJOYING A RIVER TRIP: It is assumed that most people have some knowledge of basic camping and cooking preparation. It is also assumed that most people have some knowledge of canoeing. The information list here is not meant to serve as a complete list of items to bring on a trip. Please ask if you have questions.
WEIGHT CONSIDERATIONS: Most canoes will easily carry several hundred pounds of weight, much more than is carried on a backpacking trip. However, for safer, more comfortable paddling and to simplify camp set-up, it is advised that the amount of gear be reduced when practical. On all trips involving jet boat pick-up, equipment weight should be limited to 50 lbs. per person by the end of our trip. At trips end, when food and water supplies are depleted, this limit is not hard to achieve.
KEEPING YOUR STUFF DRY: On the flat waters like the Green and Colorado Rivers, canoers using common sense rarely capsize. Because of the daily splashing of your paddle and the possibility of rainy weather, gear protection is a necessity. This is especially true for equipment sitting at the bottom of the canoe where water will collect. Heavy duty dry bags available in most sport stores and most commonly used on white water trips work great. Large plastic storage boxes, found at most discount department stores, are very useful but are not completely watertight in the event of a capsize. Large heavy duty trash bags will work fine as a temporary dry bag.
ITEMS FORGOT OR MISSED: Moab has a very well stocked, full service super market! It is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day and should help you to complete your canoe trip shopping list and any forgotten items.