Desolation Canyon on the Green River lies between the towns of Duchesne and Green River in east central Utah. This canyon is rich with the history of the Fremont People, John Wesley Powell, ranchers and outlaws and are a registered National Historic site. In 1869, after traveling through “a region of wildest desolation”, John Wesley Powell named Desolation Canyon. Gray Canyon also received its name from Major Powell after considering the names Lignite and Coal Canyons.

Desolation Canyon Information:

River: The Green River
Rapid Rating: Class III-III
Put in: Sand Wash, Utah.
Take-out location:Swaseys boat ramp.
River Miles: 84 miles
Number of rapids 50+
Trip Lengths: 5, 6 or 7 Days

Best Time to Go:  May, June, August, September, October

Colorado Plateau