Green River Whitewater Expedition

We invite all adult survivors 18 and older to join us on the Green River Whitewater Expedition as we gain new perspective and experience a truly rewarding challenge.

TAPS Expeditions are outdoor skills-based events that require dedication, preparation and a real sense of adventure. On this thrill-seeking rafting trip in the Dinosaur National Monument, we'll wind through deep canyons and stunning red rock scenery.

During this adventure, we'll take on several class II and class III whitewater rapids. When we're not on the water, we'll hike on beautiful trails, spend our evenings relaxing on the shores and share stories with each other of our fallen heroes.

Leading up to the trip, we'll form a team bond and gain familiarity with each other through team meetings to discuss training regimens, gear lists and more. Your team will be a source of encouragement as you train for this adventure and an ongoing support network after the expedition is complete.

To join the Green River Whitewater Expedition, fill out an application. TAPS Expeditions staff will contact you shortly after your application is submitted to discuss the next steps. If you're unsure if this event is for you, complete an application and TAPS Expeditions staff will connect with you to share more about our program and this event.

This trip is being put together through a partnership with O.A.R.S. For more information, visit www.oars.com/adventures.

SCHEDULE

Day 1: Our group will meet at 7 p.m. at the O.A.R.S./Don Hatch Warehouse in Vernal, Utah, for a trip orientation and to meet our guides.

Day 2: Our journey will begin after a scenic drive to our starting point at the Gates of Lodore. We'll pass through the Canyon of Lodore and experience our first — and the river's most exciting — whitewater rapids. By mid-afternoon, we'll make it to our campsite where we can hike nearby trails and enjoy each other's company.

Day 3-4: We'll spend our third and fourth days on the river to experience more rapids with plenty of thrills. As we descend further into the canyon, we'll have an opportunity to see some of the oldest geological formations in the world. During the evenings, we'll make camp on a beach that has access to great hiking trails.

Day 5: On our last day, we'll hit our final rapids and make our way to our end point at Split Mountain. From there, we'll return to Vernal in the late afternoon and say our goodbyes to our fellow adventurers.

*Note: Please be aware that this itinerary is subject to change due to a number of reasons, including weather and participant skill level.

This schedule is provided by O.A.R.S. For a more detailed itinerary, visit www.oars.com/adventures.  

TRIP FEES

A $50 deposit will be collected at the time of registration. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, TAPS will cover the rest of the trip costs, with the exception of your transportation to and from Vernal, Utah, your first night's lodging and some meals.

LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION

You will need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Vernal, Utah. The closest airport is the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Your first night's lodging will be on your own, but we can assist in recommending lodging options that fit within your budget. Plan to arrive in Vernal on Thursday, June 8. Our expedition will conclude late afternoon on Monday, June 12. You may want to stay in a hotel that night as you will likely be tired. You will need to cover the cost of your stay. If you choose to travel home that day, we suggest you book late flights.

TAPS will cover the costs for all subsequent lodging and meals. During this expedition, we will be camping along the Green River.

SKILL LEVEL

This is a physically demanding expedition and will require some preparation. To maximize your enjoyment of the expedition and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest you engage in a regular exercise regimen leading up to the trip.

If you have any questions, please email expeditions@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).