A Wild Adventure on the Colorado River

In a striking transformation over the past decade, the water levels of Lake Powell have plummeted, revealing features that had been submerged for nearly 60 years. Created in 1963 by the Glen Canyon Dam, the reservoir once flooded 186 miles of the Colorado River and its side canyons. However, a combination of overuse by the 40 million people dependent on the river and changing climate patterns has led to significant water loss, exposing the riverbed and its historical rapids. The Returning Rapids Project is currently documenting these changes as the Colorado River begins to restore itself. Notably, ten historic rapids in Cataract Canyon have re-emerged, with more expected to follow. This resurgence marks a dramatic shift from the early 2000s when guided rafting trips offered only a limited experience of the canyon's whitewater. By 2023, the rapids have regained much of their former intensity, with the rapid known as Gypsum showcasing a powerful current that challenges rafters. Participants on a recent rafting trip noted the stark contrast to previous experiences, recalling a time when motorboats could navigate the canyon with ease. River guide Zack Sam emphasized the raw and wild nature of the Colorado below Lake Powell, suggesting that the area now offers a more adventurous experience than even the Grand Canyon. As more rapids return, the canyon promises to unveil stories from the past, enriching the journey for future adventurers.