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Southwest Rafting - Teachers

This is a one-week classic river trip exploring some of the most beautiful waterways in Utah. It is designed to deliver understanding of Outward Bound educational framework and methodology and offers a unique Professional Development opportunity for educators and teachers including those who work at Expeditionary Learning Schools, an in-school curriculm developed by Outward Bound.

Courses for Teachers

Outward Bound is a pioneer in experiential education. Our rigorous, rich and purposefully designed adventures are a perfect way to explore and develop your own teaching methods and think "outside of the box". Be a student (for a change) by day and remember what it feels like to receive instead of deliver an educational experience and spend evenings in formal and informal discussions with fellow teachers about work, play and being a teacher.

Course Area

Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River, Utah – One of the most rugged and beautiful canyons, Cataract Canyon takes you through the heart of Canyonlands National Park. After negotiating 50 miles of flat water to the confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers, the Colorado becomes one of the swiftest rivers on the continent. You will experience 28 exciting rapids that rate with those of the Grand Canyon in power and difficulty, including the famous Mile Long Series, Capsize and Big Drops I, II, and III. In the nearby canyons, fantastic rock shapes carved by the whimsical forces of nature await you as your group ventures off-river. Motors may be needed to travel from the end of the rapids to the take-out depending on the water level of Lake Powell.

Course Description

Start off with a flat-water section to build muscle and skills before you and your team are maneuvering your raft through Class II – III rapids. You learn paddling commands, ruddering strokes, and how to anticipate the force of the current from far enough upstream. You and your companions will work to become a team, coordinating your positioning, spacing, and your paddle strokes. In places, the canyon rims rise thousands of feet above, enclosing you in a remote world of rushing water, delicate ecosystems and unbelievable beauty. As you travel the river, you will stop along the way to stretch your legs, explore side trails, canyons, and historic or geologic points of interest. These hikes will take you through rough terrain to incredible, remote places that are only accessible by river travelers. The hikes can be long and rigorous, but are always well worth the effort.