Overview
Canyonlands by Night and Day has been offering this evening program since 1963 and it is by far one of the most unique sound and light shows in the world. It has been hailed by many as “the highlight of our vacation.” The Canyonlands area is unlike any other in the world, making this boat ride one of the most outstanding events you’ll experience.
Your evening begins Canyonlands by Night, just two miles north of Moab. You will be served a cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner in a dining room overlooking the Colorado River. After dinner, you will be our guest on a a flat-bottomed boat as we head up river with a knowledgeable and entertaining guide who will point out things of interest and ignite your imagination. Once darkness settles in, the formal part of the evening begins with 40,000 watts of natural light illuminating the canyon wall. Lights, shadows, music, and narration make the stories of the canyon’s formation, creation, and history come to life on the walls above the river—as learned from the early settlers of the area (the Catholic conquistadors, Native Americans, and Mormon pioneers). The Canyonlands by Night and Day Sound and Light Show is a not-to-be-missed unique experience and a great end to a perfect day in Moab.
Highlights
- One of very few tours of this kind in the world
- Mellow and relaxing tour
Location
Moab, Utah
Includes
Dutch Oven Dinner
The cowboy-style dinner is cooked all day to perfection and includes BBQ beef, BBQ pork, BBQ chicken, roast beef, roast pork, cowpoke potatoes (cut potatoes with spring vegetables and cheese melted through), sweet baked beans, corn, homemade rolls (regular and garlic), a full salad bar (includes a green salad with all the toppings, a pasta salad and coleslaw), dessert, and bottomless soft drinks.
What to Bring
- A bottle of water
- Cameras are allowed as long as the flash function is disable.
- Dress for the local weather. Wear warm layers during spring and fall as evenings tend to be chili
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people fit on the boat?
144 people can fit on the Moab Queen II, which features stadium seating. Every guest has an individually assigned seat, so everyone is comfortable. Please contact the office if you have special needs.
Can I use my camera?
Yes. You can take photos without a flash. No bright lights are permitted as these detract from the show for other guests.
Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, but it is used for emergencies only.
Will I get wet?
Not at all.
What should I wear?
Dress casually and it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket. It does get cool in the evenings. If you get cold easily, you should consider long pants.
Do you go out in all types of weather?
No, the Moab Queen II is an open boat so guests are able to see high up the canyon walls. If bad weather arises, we have dinner and try to wait out the storm. It’s very common at certain times of the year for thunderstorms to build near sunset and then pass quickly. In fact, it helps cool the temperature of the canyon.