Water released from Yanyanxia Reservoir to improve rafting conditions on the Green River this season
exist OARS Rafting Outlook 2026The company's operations manager noted that much of the West will enter a low-water year this year, setting the stage for a dry season on some of the region's most iconic rivers. But there is one important exception – Utah green river.
Many rivers will have reduced flows and more technical whitewater conditions this year, and with federally mandated releases of water from Flaming Canyon Reservoir this summer, the Green River is poised to become one of the West's most reliable rafting destinations.
If you’ve been reading the headlines about “no water” and re-examining your rafting plans, check out Gate of Lodor and Split Mountain Canyon At Dinosaur National Monument, further downstream desolate canyonExpect to offer a rare combination of sustained currents, splashing rapids and classic summer rafting conditions.
Why does the Flame Gorge Reservoir release water?
After more than two decades of drought in the Colorado River Basin, water levels in Lake Powell are near record lows, and many experts fear the reservoir will reach its minimum power generation capacity by the end of 2026. This occurs when the water level reaches 3,490 feet, which is the lowest level. glen canyon dam Can generate electricity.
To help stabilize the system and protect critical infrastructure, the Bureau of Reclamation plans to release 660,000 to 1 million acre-feet of water from Flaming Canyon into Lake Powell by April 2027 as part of its drought response.
According to the latest news from the BureauCurrently at 79% of capacity, supplemental discharges from Flaming Gorge are intended to increase water storage in Lake Powell while supporting water flow through the Colorado River corridor, including the Grand Canyon.
For river runners, the takeaway is simple. There is more water flowing through the Green River system than you would normally expect in a drought year.
“Like everyone who cares about these rivers, we are paying close attention to what is happening in the Colorado River system,” said OARS Director of Operations Seth Davis. “But the silver lining is that controlled releases from Flaming Gorge Dam will make the Green River the most reliable whitewater rafting option in the region this summer.”
What kind of water flow can rafters on the Green River expect?
In early May, flow in the Green River below Flaming Gorge Dam was steady at about 4,600 cubic feet per second (CFS). Then, the larval trigger research plan was released the week of May 4, which sent flows soaring to about 8,600 CFS, a powerful spike designed to mimic natural spring runoff and support endangered fish.
Flows began to decrease on May 11 and are expected to stabilize at a daily average of 1,100 CFS through May before a second large peak flow for smallmouth bass occurs sometime in June. Following these spring pulses, baseflow is expected to stabilize in the 2,050 CFS range through September.
While the bureau's release plans are subject to change based on changing conditions and weather, one thing is certain: Outfitters expect base traffic to be higher than normal during the summer.
This is more important than it sounds. In years with lower water volumes, late season flows through Lodore may drop below 800 CFS. When this happens, travel slows down, rocks become more exposed, and navigating the river requires greater precision as guides work to avoid the raft getting hung up in the shallow water.
This year's projected baseflow is more than double that level, helping to ease navigation challenges and keep travel running smoothly throughout the season.
“These flows do not change the river's classification,” said Bruce Lavoie, OARS Dinosaur operations manager. “They made the trip very enjoyable.”
This enjoyment can be found everywhere.
With the flow through Lodore's Gate healthy this year, iconic rapids like Catastrophe Falls and Hell's Half Mile will remain strong into late summer. Reliable water flow will also enhance quiet moments on the trip, from floating beneath towering red rock canyon walls to spending more time exploring places like Jones Hall Creek and relaxing at camp.
In the Split mountain canyon, The Best Day Rafting Trips in Utahplanned water releases mean bigger splashes and more excitement, while still maintaining an approachable, family-friendly environment.
Further downstream, Desolation Canyon hits its sweet spot with moderate currents. The more than 50 rapids in this section of the river are made more dynamic and are especially interesting for inflatable kayakers looking for a fun ride. Expect more campground options along the river this season, often in great locations with access to hidden side canyons, historic sites, outlaw hideouts and Fremont-era petroglyph panels.
Why 2026 is the Year of Green River Rafting
Lavoie said it best in the 2026 Rafting Outlook — the Green River “will be the emerald jewel of the Colorado River system this season.”
With dam-controlled releases to promote and stabilize water flows, Lodor, Split Mountain and Desolation Canyon are set for a season that is both exciting and reliable. Trips won't just be made – they'll be running well and conditions will remain stable after a brief spring runoff window.
For travelers who have been waiting for the right time to experience Green River, this is it.
Conditions, times, and water levels adjust in a way that doesn't happen every year, creating a season where you can plan your rafting trip with confidence and experience these canyons at their best.
