Moab is famous for its dramatic red rock scenery and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a surprisingly good place to enjoy a memorable lunch on the go or while taking in the views.
Whether you’re craving a hearty BBQ by the river, a beginner-friendly rafting trip with a picnic-style meal, or a more relaxed day on the water with a gourmet lunch, Moab offers options that cater to different tastes and activity levels.
We particularly like the Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch, which combines excitement with a delicious meal in a picture-perfect setting.
While exploring Moab’s renowned landscapes, these lunch experiences stand out because they blend adventure with good food, making your day in Utah even more special. For an active day on the river combined with a tasty BBQ or a relaxing float with a gourmet stop, these tours promise memorable moments and some of the best scenic views around.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top-rated rafting tours, each with its own unique appeal:
– A full-day Colorado River rafting adventure with BBQ lunch that combines scenic paddling with a delicious riverside cookout (Tour #1)
– An introductory rafting trip for families and beginners, including a deli-style lunch and safety instruction (Tour #2)
– A full-day Colorado River trip in Arizona, offering both calm and mild rapids with an exclusive BBQ lunch at a ranch (Tour #3)
Below, we explore each in detail, helping you decide which fits your style and interests best.
1. Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch
This full-day Colorado River rafting trip is an excellent choice if you want a mix of adventure and great food. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with most of your time spent floating past iconic red rock formations, including Fisher Towers, and enjoying the scenery that has starred in many movies. The trip includes mild rapids and plenty of calm stretches, perfect for taking photos and soaking in the landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is the BBQ lunch served at a riverside ranch. It’s a classic Western-style cookout—think grilled meats and sides—and a fitting reward after paddling. The guides have a reputation for being friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the scenery and local history along the way.
With a 5.0/5 rating from 352 reviews, this trip is very popular, especially for those who want to combine adventure with a hearty meal in a stunning setting.
This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as it involves mild rapids and no prior experience is necessary. The trip’s value is high—around $138 per person—for a full day immersed in nature with excellent food and expert guidance. Reviewers highlight the scenic drive to the launch point and the quality of the lunch as particular highlights.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full day of paddling, sightseeing, and satisfying your hunger with a BBQ, this tour offers a balanced, memorable experience.
2. Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch — Colorado River
This introductory rafting adventure is perfect for families or first-timers. It features a guided trip on a scenic stretch of the Colorado River just outside Moab. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and includes a comprehensive safety orientation and paddling instruction, making it accessible even for those with no previous experience.
During the trip, you’ll encounter mild class II rapids, ideal for beginners and those who want a gentle float with exciting moments. The guides, with an average of 2,000 miles of rafting experience, bring a wealth of knowledge and engaging stories.
Alongside the paddling, you’ll get a new perspective on Utah’s ancient geology—fascinating formations and towering cliffs are the backdrop for your adventure.
The highlight for many is the deli-style lunch on the riverbanks, which provides a relaxed, scenic meal midway through your day of adventure. This tour costs around $132 per person and consistently receives 5-star reviews for its friendly guides and well-organized itinerary. One reviewer mentions, “Enjoyed the whole experience from start to finish, with a fun and relaxed atmosphere and a tasty lunch.”
Bottom Line: For a family-friendly, beginner-level rafting trip that combines manageable rapids, scenic views, and a picnic-style lunch, this tour hits the sweet spot.
3. Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch
Though based in Arizona, this full-day Colorado River rafting trip shares many similarities with its Utah counterparts. It features a 5.5-hour float through calm stretches and mild rapids, with the highlight being a BBQ lunch at a scenic ranch along the river. The tour offers the option to paddle in paddle rafts or two-person kayaks, making it flexible for different preferences and skill levels.
What sets this tour apart is the exclusive riverside location at Red Cliffs Lodge, where you can enjoy your meal amid the rugged scenery. The tour is ideal for those who want a full day of water activity but prefer a more relaxed pace, with plenty of time to take photos or simply enjoy the wilderness.
Though there’s only one review, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who want fewer crowds and a gourmet lunch option in a luxurious setting.
At approximately $138 per person, this experience provides good value for a full day of water, wildlife, and scenic views. It’s best suited for those who want a more laid-back pace but still crave the thrill of mild rapids and a top-notch barbecue.
Bottom Line: For water lovers who want to combine paddling with a scenic lunch in a more exclusive setting, this trip in Arizona is a worthwhile choice.
How to Choose Your Moab Lunch Adventure
When selecting the best lunch experience in Moab, consider your activity level and what kind of scenery and amenities you prefer. If you’re after a full-day adventure with a hearty BBQ and iconic scenery, Tour #1 offers a complete package.
For beginners or families, Tour #2 provides a gentle, guided experience with a picnic-style lunch. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with options for kayaking and a gourmet meal, Tour #3 in Arizona might be just right.
Budget-wise, these tours are similar, with prices around $130-$138, but their focus varies—from beginner-friendly paddling to full-on adventure. Think about how much time you want to spend on the water, whether you’re traveling with kids, and if you’d like a more luxurious setting or a straightforward outdoor experience.
Booking early is a smart move, especially during peak seasons, since these popular trips tend to fill up fast. Be sure to check the weather and water levels beforehand—milder conditions make for a more enjoyable outing.
Final Thoughts
Moab offers a surprisingly diverse range of lunch experiences that turn a day of outdoor activity into a true feast for the senses. From the exciting full-day rafting adventures with BBQ to beginner-friendly trips suitable for families, there’s something for all.
If you’re looking for a hearty meal paired with spectacular scenery, the Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch is a top pick. For a relaxed, beginner-friendly day, the Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch is ideal.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and preparing for a day on the water will ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. Moab’s outdoor culinary options are as memorable as its landscapes—so pack your appetite and sense of adventure.