White River in Utah

Trip Overview

The White River is located right in the middle of the desert here in North Eastern Utah. What was amazing to me was the contrast of features. Right next to the river there were large Cotton Wood trees that extended to about 100 yards off shore. Then right after the tree line it was the harsh desert. We also went through canyons lined with red rocks.

One major problem that we encountered was the hordes of horse flies. We tried our insect repellant but they went through that like it wasn't even there. The river itself has a whitish color to it and it is very calm. I took my wife and 3 kids ages 2 - 8 years in a canoe. The only problems that we had were the large Cotton Wood trees that had fallen over into the river.

There were also some mild class II rapids. This is a great place to go for those that want to get away from the rat race and enjoy the seclusion that comes with it. The BLM in Vernal has a great web site and some pamphlets at their main office that will show were to put in and take out. There are also some fees that you will have to pay if you plan on going through Tribal land to the Whites confluence with the Green River.

Accommodations:

The White does not have any developed campgrounds, but they do have a place designated for campers. You will need to bring you own drinking water and supplies.

Fees:

The Ute Indian Tribe will require you to pay fees if you plan on going through their land.

Directions:

About 3 miles south of Vernal on highway 40 you will take the exit to Bonanza. From that turn off point you will go about 30 miles to the second bridge (one over the Green the next one is over the White). Just past the second bridge (Bonanza Bridge) you will see a sign that points you to the put in point

Launches:

There are many put in points. You can put in at Rangley Colorado or at the one just South of Bonanza Utah. Most people put in at the Bonanza Bridge and take out at an Oil Well location that the BLM has set up. There is also a take out point on Tribal land called the Mountain Fuel Bridge. If you plan on taking out on tribal land you will need to contact them for fees.

Contact:

The Vernal BLM's office number is (435) 781-4400.

Resources:

The BLM in Vernal has a great pamphlet that has a map of the river and where the rapids are located.