Virgin River

Utah's Virgin River flows southward across the state, forking along the way, but providing visitors with outstanding rafting and fly fishing. Most of the main rapid sections are very short, but can be extremely challenging. As a result, the best fish are found in the northern part of the river, where the silt content is less prevalent.

The Virgin River in Utah crosses in a southerly direction. Its many forks are great for fly fishing and rafting expeditions. However, whitewater parts are limited in length, and only experienced rafters should even attempt it. The fishing, though, is much more popular, especially in the virtually siltless sections to the north, where trout are plentiful.

It is interesting to note that the rafting experience that is so prized on this river is somehow not inspired by the meager river forks' names, or the fact that at least two remain nameless. They are definitely short in length, but do not underestimate their powerful flow. Hang on for dear life!

Further downstream, near Littlefield, the Virgin attracts most of its rafters, with rapids ranging from the very gentle to the most rough. Generally the rafting season lasts only for one month (April-May) because the water's speed decreases. The most courageous have even been known to end their run in Arizona, just to gamble their sanity away.

The Virgin, especially along its calmest points, has fishing spots that attract huge crowds, and varied campgrounds to go with them. Most are located within the two main state parks. There are many more natural camping sites, but some are privately owned.

Other Online Resources

  • Virgin River District Boy Scouts of America
    The Virgin River District Boy Scouts of America is located in St. George, Utah and serves the surrounding communities.
  • Virgin River Program
    The Virgin River Program is dedicated to balancing human interests on the Virgin River along with the necessary conservation of the area's ecosystem.
  • Virgin River Runners Coalition
    The Virgin River Runners Coalition is dedicated to improving river running access and boating rights along the Virgin River in southern Utah.

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