Testimonials
Canyonlands By Night and Day loves to get mail! We love hearing about your trip experience
and enjoy sharing your experience with others. Just look at what some of our friends have said!
Send us your comments by mail or fill out our Testimonial Contact Form and we'll be happy to include you!
We really enjoyed our tour! Our guide was very knowledgeable and fun. On a return trip we would be interested in
taking a jetboat tour all the way down to the confluence. Is this offered?
Sincerely,
Erik Nore
P.S.- Attached is a nice B&W shot of our fun loving tour guide, racing another boat back up the river. Please look at it and make sure he gets a copy if he is so inclined!
Answer from Mallory: To answer Erick's question, we don't offer a trip to the Confulence because the full day lenght of the trip. After I showed Rory the photo, he explained he was pretending to help paddle the boat to make it go faster than the other boat in the photo.
I just wanted to take a minute and let you know what a great experience we had on the Canyons by Night boat tour.
When we bought our tickets the staff was very informative; they told us to dress warm and be at the dining room promptly at 7:00 pm. We were ushered into the dining room where Preston Paxman, the owner and guide for the night greeted us. He explained how dinner would work and about the feast that was waiting for us. He told us that all the meat was slow cooked for 12 hours in Dutch ovens. It was delicious and plenty for seconds. The dinner staff was very well organized and everything went smoothly.
We boarded the boat and started our tour up the Colorado River. If you love history you will love this tour. Preston has lived in the area for 40 some years and you could tell he loves it and was very informative about the river and of Moab itself.
If you are planning a trip to Moab, you have got to take enough time to do at least one of the boat tours, you will not be disappointed.
Well done Preston and staff!
LaRita Johnson
Spanish Fork, Utah
Greetings CBN, and thanks!
Can’t say how much I enjoyed the experience at night; the whole family did. Everyone with the company played their part well for a great production. I thought the entire presentation was first rate, and without a noticeable element of commercial attraction tied to it. You guys work hard to offer a lot of honest value to the cost paid. I was surprised to see that even prices in the gift shop seemed very reasonable and fair.
Before sending you this note of thanks, I logged into an event rating site that covers Moab attractions. I was pleased to agree with the notes that were positive and disappointed by those that took criticism. Most of the critical reviews I read revealed a person’s displeasure with ideology or philosophy that compromised his appreciation of nature and presentation; that’s unfortunate.
I love good food, and look for any opportunity to appreciate the world around me in every aspect. People who like ‘Dutch Oven’ cooking should enjoy the selection, attention by chef and servers and the amount of food that is available; it’s all done very well.
I've driven up-river during the day many times, and I’ve always been affected by the abundant beauty, but I never saw the canyon as beautiful and awe inspiring as it was through the accent of powerful strategic lighting; it was a whole new experience. The trip up-river with Preston's commentary was thoroughly enjoyable and informative. In the past, I've enjoyed briefer exchanges like his, in between river rapids and water fights on float trips; it was nice to have more time to enjoy colorful comments.
When it got dark, and the boat began its return float, I was amazed at how the well directed light and skilled placement of the boat introduced me to a canyon that I never realized was there.
As I listened to the recording I wondered if some people might be uncomfortable with the obvious reference to God being at the bottom of such beauty, and Mormon settlers being a part of the history; some people don't like to hear things like that these days. I guess it’s unfortunate that some people could be so bothered by it that it would distract from the incredible beauty around them.
There's no way any human narration can be choreographed in time and synchronization to nature like that, so if a person prefers perfectly coordinated orchestration, quiet solitude or their own style of background music, it might be best to take their I Pod or Bose noise canceling headphones with them (they probably already have both) so they can shut out everything else, and appreciate the tremendous positives that are otherwise available in this experience.
Thanks again!
Dennis Johnson
We took the 1PM boat ride on May 7 and would like to convey our total satisfaction with the entire trip. The captain was highly skilled in all aspects of his operation of the boat and a fountain of knowledge about the area and river. He is a large asset to the company and we would like to thank him again for a great day.
Tim & Pat McQueeney
My husband and I had the pleasure experiencing a most wonderful evening at Canyonlands By Night on October 9, 2009.
When we checked into our hotel earlier in the day we were given some brochures of local eateries and things to do. While my husband checked our emails and downloaded some photos, I glanced through the brochures. Nothing really "grabbed" me until I saw your ad! I decided this would be something fun and it would definitely beat sitting around a hotel room with nothing to watch on t.v. I called the number and a very friendly young lady took my reservation for DINNER and LIGHT SHOW. She told me to be sure and bring a warm jacket because it gets cold at night.
I was given directions and told to be there by 5:30pm and dinner started promptly at 6pm. Know what? I DID NOT EVEN ASK HOW MUCH IT COST! I just gave her my card number!
When I told my husband what I had done, he did not look too happy. He said, "Is this going to be another of those chuck wagon dinners like in South Dakota where it ended up being political?" I assured him it was NOT and quit frowning. (I sure hoped it wouldn't be!!!)
We went to the gift shop at 5:30pm to pick up our tickets and of course, buy a t-shirt! The ladies at the cash registers were so nice and friendly.
At 6:00pm, those of us that were not with a group entered the dining hall first, followed by the tour groups. By luck of our seats, my husband and I were the first to go through the wonderful buffet. Prior to dining, Preston told us what our choices of food were for the evening and it sounded wonderful! We started at the salad/pasta bar and then over to the main entrees. WHAT A DELICIOUS MEAL IT WAS! All the hot food was prepared slowly in heavy dutch ovens and to say it was delicious.....well, that doesn't do it justice! We had a choice of 4 meats: bbq chicken with sweet bbq sauce, pulled beef bbq, regular roast beef and a spicy, hot pork. Also, we had out-of-this-world-baked beans, sweet niblet corn, cowboy 'taters, choice of garlic rolls or regular rolls and for dessert....APPLE COBBLER! I am not a fan of apple cobbler, but this was so delicious that I had seconds! Speaking of seconds, you may have all the food you want, just do not waste any. Unfortunately, I saw some waste, but a lot of people at dinner were senior citizens and their appetites just are not as large as they once were, so this may account for that. I know mine and my husband's plates were clean! The chef on duty that night was Sammy and he was very friendly and funny. Preston kept coming around to each table and asking if everything was okay, which I thought was very nice.
Dinner lasted an hour and then we gathered outside to form a line and go down the steps to our boat for the ride and light show. It was not dark, but getting a little chilly. Preston was our "narrator" and he had us laughing with his stories of commercials filmed in the area, etc...When we were all on the boat, they started playing the theme from the t.v. show "Gilligan's Island".....Preston told us it was up to each of us to use our own imagination on the rocks as the light shown on them as we floated along. In addition to the lights on the rocks, there is a wonderful history of the area and the music is beautiful also. However, to be honest.....we just loved being on the Colorado River drifting along and every now and then was the wonderful smell of a wood campfire on shore! My husband and I just laid our heads back and watched the stars, satellites (I counted four!) and airplanes crossing overhead. We even had a CLEAR view of the Milky Way!!! My husband said he had not seen this many stars since he was a child (we are both 60) and he whispered a "thank you" for the wonderful evening! He said it was his favorite part of our vacation. When we reached the dock again, Preston said, "Wow! Wouldn't it be wonderful to top off a chilly evening with a cup of hot chocolate? Well, guess what? Our staff has hot chocolate ready for all of you in the dining hall! Just help yourselves!"
Tips are optional and are shared among the boat crew, cooks and clean up staff. A "milk can" is provided for the tips. My husband is normally a tightwad....I love him, but he is FRUGAL. However, I was pleased to note he dropped a $20 in the milk can because there was only loose change for such a wonderful experience and a wonderful group of employees at Canyonlands. I cannot wait to go back and try another tour there!
If you are on the fence about whether to spend the money on this tour.....please! Do it! It is wonderful and you won't regret it!
Cindy
North Carolina
Hi Mallory,
You may remember us as the confused English party who were a day behind on their travels.....?
Anyway, I'd just like to thank you and all your colleagues for a fantastic day. Firstly,I cannot express how grateful I am that you were able to book us on the correct day after my mistake ! The ladies in the shop were very friendly, the food we had a lunchtime was great and Rory was a perfect host on the water (very funny, and cheeky with it!)
Thank you again so much for the fantastic time we had.
Regards,
Lynn Barnshaw
(UK)
p.s. We enjoyed our stay at Red Cliffs Lodge, and were sad it was only for 2 nights. We have vowed to come back again, and would love to do the boat trip by night. I just need to save up the pennies - and I promise you, we will book the correct date this time !
Dear Mallory,
While my wife and I were on our annual vacation, we had the good fortune of spending a few days in Moab, UT (09/20/09-09/22/09.) We want to take this opportunity to thank all the staff at Canyonlands for their professionalism and people oriented mannerisms. Our thanks to the ladies at the gift store for their enthusiasm in answering all our questions about your tours and the points of interest in the local area.
We want to especially thank boat Captain Andrew for his demeanor and historical knowledge of the river canyon. Without his enthusiastic presentations, I'm sure the trip down river would have been boring.
It was an absolute delight to have professional hummer driver Erik take us on Hell's Revenge. His geologic knowledge along with his learned survival skills go unchallenged. He was helpful, thoughtful, and a very skilled vehicle driver.
Our dining room experience was a delight with the very tasty lunch prepared by chef Sammy and his staff. If we have the distinct pleasure of returning to Moab in the future, we will definitely come to Canyon Lands to have all our wants and desires met with enthusiasm and professionalism.
Vern and Kari Roberts
Folsom, Ca
You need to add the following to your website in very large letters: "The famous excursion train in Durango, Colorado, was great. It was everything it was cracked up to be. However, the jetboat ride at Moab, Utah, was EVEN BETTER. A brochure could not do justice to the speedy boat and fantastic rock monoliths. Also liked the little lizards when we stopped along the river bank. This is the perfect alternative for people who are too young, too old, too poor or just too chicken to go rafting on the Colorado."
---Charles S. Kennedy
Indianapolis
To the CBN Family
We are finally writing to express our appreciation to all of you, especially our guide, Preston. On August 25th, we embarked on our experience following a delicious "chuckwagon-style" dinner (thanks, Sammy!!). The pontoon-boat cruise was a wonderful adventure, thanks to the professional, humorous and just plain entertaining presentation by Preston. The music, the lights and the narrative combined to make it a magical evening.
This was a marvelous beginning, and truly one of THE highlights of our three and a half week road-trip adventure through Utah, Idaho and Banff, Jasper, Waterton Lakes and Glacier National Parks. Since returning home, we have sung your praises to all our friends. We intend to return for this and others of your tours!
Thanks again,
Vic and Joni Brenneisen
Santa Fe, NM
Every now and then we stumble across blogs that mention our names and we enjoy reading what others have said about us. Last week I happened upon Ron Wilson's blog entitled, "A Senior Moment". Ron was nice enough to let us share his experience on our website. Ron was on one of the tour buses that visit us on a regular basis and his insight into what a tour bus vacation is humorous and entertaining. In order to understand what built up to his experience with Canyonlands By Night, you have to hear about his whole day. I hope you enjoy as much as we have.
Note: Mr. Wilson uses TD for Tour Director and TW for the wife.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Day 7
The day starts out with Bags out at 7:00 A.M. Departure is at 7:50 A.M. We drink some coffee in our room and eat a couple nutrition bars for breakfast. We don't get to eat the hotel's breakfast again. Whoever set this up is a moron, if you ask me.
We leave at the appointed time, and head to our next destination, Monument Valley.
Monument Valley.
Ever since my childhood, back in the fifties, I have wanted to see this place. Everyone has memories of their childhood, and the things that mattered to them, back then. For me, it was the old west, of cowboys and Indians and covered wagons, and bad old gunfighters, the whole myth of the west. I remember watching the Cisco Kid, and Hopalong Cassidy, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans (Happy Trails to you!), Annie Oakley, and then all the prime time westerns like Have Gun Will Travel, Cheyenne, and so many more. And there were the movies, too. The first time I saw "The Searchers," I was eleven. I've never forgotten that first time, I was just totally taken in by the story. I believe I've probably seen that movie at least fifty times, and still watch it on occasion today. Also, all the others with John Wayne, James Stewart, Henry Fonda, so many more. Many of the films these actors worked in were made in or near Monument Valley.
And so, for more than fifty years, I've been hoping to visit Monument Valley. All the time I was growing up, joining the service after high school, meeting my sweetheart and getting married, having children and working hard to provide for my family, I kept hoping. I knew someday I would get there, and stand where my hero's from my childhood stood and saw what they saw. Today was the day. Today, I would be there. Yeah, you can say, I was really looking forward to it.
And it nearly didn't happen.
We rode up the road to Monument Valley, stopping at a place called Blanding Visitor Center for a restroom break , and then moving on. We reached a check in point, the entrance to the Main area. We are in the Navajo Indian Tribal Park, and Monument Valley is just a small part of it. We've been cautioned that this is now Indian Land, and we are expected to act accordingly. In other words, should you wish to take pictures of Indians, you are expected to ask permission and then to offer a gratuity. I understand this, but I have no intention of taking pictures of Indians, I just want pictures of the country.
We finally reach a parking area, wherein the bus stops, and the TD gets off to talk to two Indians, who have driven up in an old pickup truck. She talks to them for a few minutes, and the next thing I know is she gets in the pickup with them, and they go driving off the lot, following a dirt track down to some (dare I say it) huts about a half mile away. There, she disappears. Meanwhile, I'm sitting there, the door is closed, and I'm dying to get out and take some photo's. Sitting. Just Sitting. I'm getting really angry now. I've come all this way and can't do what I want to do. TW whispers to me to stay calm, and I try, but inside I'm just seething with anger. We're wasting time, darn it!, I think. I didn't think 'darn it' either. Finally, after ten minutes of wasted time, we see the Pickup coming back. The TD gets out and climbs back in the bus, and explains the situation. It seems this tour company thought they could drive the back roads here in the park with the bus, but that was not the case. The Indian's would be happy to take us on a tour, it would only cost $65 per person. Well, if they don't scalp you one way, they'll do it another, I guess. The TD turned that down. Meanwhile, we are still sitting on this bus, and I'm just burning with frustration. So I ask (loudly) if we can still get out to take some pictures? Of course, yes, she says, and I'm out of there, snapping away like crazy.
We were at the Visitor's center, so TW and I walked in that direction, and climbed some steps to get to the top of the center. They of course had a Gift shop there, and I proceeded to buy as much as I could, couple of T-shirts and DVDs and other smaller stuff. But most of time I spent snapping pictures and just looking at the vista. It is just beautiful there, incredibly exciting to see, for me, anyway. I couldn't drink it in fast enough. Everywhere I looked, something I remembered, a rock formation, a moment from a favorite movie, was there. As it turns out, as I found out later, many of the scenes in John Ford's Westerns were filmed right there where I was standing. I kept shooting pictures, and we walked slowly back to the bus. I didn't want to leave, really. I wanted to spend as much time as possible.
Turns out we were the last ones to return to the bus and the others had to wait for us to return. I felt bad about that. (NOT!)
As we left, I kept my eyes on the outside, I didn't want to miss anything at all. I took some pictures as we were leaving, through the glass of the Bus, complete with reflections, but I didn't care. I had gotten there, had the pictures and souvenirs to prove it. The rest of the trip would not compare to this, I thought. This was a highlight of my life.
I was wrong about that. What was coming, later on this day, would eclipse this moment. And make the day darn near one of the best days of my life, ever.
We stopped for lunch at Goulding's trading Post, where we sat down and had a nice meal. Something happened during the meal that I found to be very interesting. As mentioned, this is Navajo tribal land, and so were served by Navajo Indian people. This is nice really, and I was looking forward to some good food. We sat with another couple, and when the Navajo gentleman came to the table to take our order, the lady across from us ordered a Navajo Bread Bowl and Soup, only she called it NavaJOe. The fellow looked at her, and said, vehemently, "If you want to get served, say it correct. It's Navajo, Not NavaJOE." He really appeared quite angry at her mistake. Nevertheless, she simply said ok, and went ahead and ordered. I must admit, I was cringing a little, but nothing more was said. We ate, and TW and I got the heck out of there.
We wandered around the trading Post for a bit, taking pictures and just enjoying ourselves, and then it was time to board the bus and leave this place. I was feeling sad at the thought of leaving so soon, it had taken so much of my life to finally get here, but at the same time, I was feeling good, too. I don't know, all sorts of emotions played in my mind. I won't forget this moment in time, I guarantee that.
So, up the road we went, and I didn't look back. No point, really. I think I will be back someday, though. I'm sure that it will be here, just the same as it was, and it will welcome me back like an old friend.
We come into the town of Moab, Utah. I don't know what I was expecting, but I tell you, this is one of the neatest places I've ever been to. We pull in to the Best Western Canyonlands Hotel, where we are greeted with smiling faces and food and drink too. The TD does her thing and we get our keys to our rooms, and thankfully, we are for once on the bottom floor, relatively close to the front desk. That means it will be relatively quiet at night. Or as quiet as a hotel can be at night. Regardless, the room was clean and neat, everything was there for us. Our bags came quickly, only because I went out to get them. Y'see, we had to re board the bus for a trip out to a place Called Canyonlands By Night.
The Colorado River flows just north of Moab, on it's way toward the Grand Canyon. We cross over a bridge, and, just to the left, is a place called Canyonlands By night. It is a long low building, with a large dining room which probably holds 200 or so people, A Gift shop, of course, and behind it, facing the river is a boat dock with several large Flatboats in place. As soon as we arrived, an older gentleman appeared and came into our bus, greeting us and telling us we were just in time. We climbed off the bus and walked into the dining room, where long tables sat row by row. We all sat, and this gentleman, who's name was Dee, spoke to us for a few minutes, telling us what we were about to experience. There were several servers standing behind a table with all sorts of food stuffs in front of them. Dee invited us to pick up a metal plate, help ourselves to the salad bar, and then go over to the server's, who would load our plates with all sorts of good food. And it was, too.
It had to be one of the most delicious meals I've ever eaten. Dee invited everyone to partake of seconds. All we needed to do was leave our plate on the tables, go get another one, and start over again. It was quite a dinner, and we were stuffed by the end. Afterwards, we wandered over to the gift shop (of course) and looked around. Then we walked over to the boat area, where we waited to board the flatboat.
What happens next is hard to describe. I'm pretty sure I can't do it justice, but I will try. Canyonlands By Night is exactly that. We boarded the flatboat, which had room for some 150 or so seats. Once every one was on board, Dee began to talk, and told us what we were about to see and enjoy. We would take a short trip up the river, while he showed us various things about the cliffs and canyon walls that the river was coursing through. He told the stories of the various places on the rocks, and showed us things you could imagine to see on the walls. Meanwhile, it is getting darker and darker, because night is falling, and when we get to a certain point on the river, the light show begins.
I'm not at all sure I can describe what happens. Suddenly, a great beam of light from the shoreline blazes on, and is reflected back by the sheer walls of rock surrounding us. Some music starts playing, and the story of creation, both versions, are told, as it gets darker and darker. The light playing on the walls actually moves in time to the music and the narration, and it just mesmerizes you. Eventually, the stories end, the lights still play on the walls, but the river is silent, and the engine running the boat has been silenced as well. You look up at the ancient walls of rock, and your eyes automatically keep going, and suddenly you are looking at the stars. Hundreds and thousands of Stars. The Milky Way. The Necklace of the Night. It simply takes your breath away. The boat, and all souls aboard it, are completely silent. The only thing you hear is the catch in your breathing, and your heart beating, and you become one with what is out there. It's such magic, this moment. We are suspended in time, and it shall never end.
But of course, it does, the boats motor softly starts again, and the lights go out, and we are slowly docked again. No one wants to leave. Dee thanks us for coming, and we slowly, as if in a trance, leave this place.
We go back to the bus and TW and I just look at each other and then we smile. It was one of the most wonderfully magical times I've ever spent. We went back to the hotel and slept soundly. There would be more to see tomorrow.
Canyonlands By Night would like to profoundly thank Ron for letting us share his story.Thanks Ron!
We went on the Jetboat day tour and Absolutely loved it! Rory was by far the best guide we have ever had on any tour we have been on! He truly made the tour informative and Hilarious. We will definatley be coming back!
Matt and Kebbie Montgomery
Vernal, Utah
The evening river cruise was the highlight of our Sun City tour and we particularly appreciated Preston's information both on that trip and the "Arches" trip the following day.
HERB & PAT DROSDAT
Hi Mallory,
We arrived home last Thursday and have almost got back to normal following the time difference.
We would just like to say that making another visit to Moab with the sole purpose of taking your sunset/sound and light combo was well worth it. We thought our original river trip with you a couple of years ago was wonderful but this second trip was just magical and was the highlight of our three week's holiday in the US. Please convey our sincere thanks to all your staff both ashore and onboard the two boats especially Rory who again made the first part of the evening's activities so enjoyable with his charming personality and quick wit.
A special thank you to you also for making the booking process so easy and for being so welcoming when we arrived. Long may you all continue.
Diana and Bill Parker,
Milton Keynes,
UK
I was one of the Catholic group that took the Canyonlands by night trip on June 28 - and I just wanted to let you know what a treat it was for me. I've been a great Moab fan for many years - always wanted to take that trip but never quite made it. So it was special for me. Thank you for providing an delightful evening - here in Ogden, we never see the stars and I had forgotten how many there are up there! Thank you again - the trip was great and the food was especially good.
Darryl, Dawn & Leah
Sincerely,
Sister Luke Hoschette
Rory,
Wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our boat tour with you as our guide. The canyons are so amazing that our photos don't really do it justice- but we were there! It was a pleasure meeting you. The nighttime boat tour was enjoyable and informative (as well as breathtaking). I have never seen so many stars and seeing the Milky Way was certainly a bonus. Thanks for sharing Moab with us!
Darryl, Dawn & Leah
The Smiths
South Carolina
I visited your canyonlands by night boat trip last week with the Thomas Cook tour. We all agreed that it was the highlight of our holiday. I thoroughly enjoyed the meal you gave us especially the BBQ beans. I tried BBQ beans in other restaurants while on holiday but yours were definitely the best. Thank you.
christine reynolds
U.K.
Dear Mallory,
I am not one to say nothing when I see a class act. Your organization has it all together! The excursions were incredible.
Jet Boat - Rory made the trip - he is a great person - guide - and all around fun guy. We (my group of 4) all enjoyed not only his tour but his banter at the dinner afterwords. He's a keeper!
The way you organized the night boat tour was commendable. To assign seating and say no to cameras was awesome even though I had a camera.
The excursions you set up for us with Moab were just as fun and professional. I will be sending an email to them also.
I will not hesitate to recommend you to all my friends and family!!!
Again thanks and let all the employees know that they do a great job especially Rory!
Steve Roesner
Dear Sir/Madam,
We would just like to thank you all for an exciting evening on our recent trip to Canyonlands by Night. Everyone made us so welcome and we all thoroughly enjoyed the traditional cuisine. The river cruise was completely different to anything we have experienced and will certainly recommend it to anyone visiting the area. I am at present editing our photos of the area and wondered if you could give me the title of the song of the Colorado River that you played on the river cruise, it just seemed so appropriate but I can't find it on any search. Many thanks.
Mrs. Elaine Shawcross
U.K.
The song Mrs. Shawcross heard on the tour is entitled "Moonlight on the Colorado" it was made by Sons of the Pioneers. It may be hard to find as it is a rare, but it's a great song!
Dear Canyonlands by Night and Day,
Just a short note to let you know how much I really enjoyed your Evening Dinner and Canyonlands by Night Cruise. When my wife had suggested this to me I thought, "Here we go again, another bad rubber chicken dinner and really lame laser light show on some rocks." I went along anyway because after 40 years one learns better.
I could not have been more wrong.
Your entire experiance, from start to finish was nothing less than a wonderfully coriagraphed stage show. When one stops to consider that mankind flew to the moon and back on 64k of memory , less than 40 years ago, (less
computing power than a modern microwave) and that many shows like yours are using considerably more technology ...than a music concert, you folks are doing something very right.
You presentation was nothing short of inspiring using only a river, a boat, music, light and narration. In fact I know, all who were on this fully booked cruise, have come away with this same feeling. Your show does something that all of those other technology shows do not. It places the individual right smack into the middle of the Rocks, River, Nature experence on a very personal level with just a few simple "Old Tools'. I for one have a renewed faith in nature and the human creative process as a result. Thanks for sharing the Real West in a Real Way.
Almost forgot the food..........I can only say that if I were well off enough I would have your meals shipped to me in New York on a daily basis. Yes.....it was that good.
Sincerely (rom a recently retired engineer),
Jim Cooke
Mallory,
Please pass the following comments to your senior management:
Canyonlands by Night and Day did an excellent job in planning all the activities for my son and I while in Moab, Utah. Each of the activities scheduled were the best. The communication was excellent and the whole process was painless. I would recommend anyone planning a trip to Moab use your services for planning their time in Moab. You truly are adding value to tourism in Moab by making it easy for those visiting to get the most out of their vacation time. I should also mention we greatly enjoyed the Canyonlands by night tour with the great dinner, and the jet boat ride down the Colorado River. Your staff was friendly and knowledgeable.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks,
John Minerich
Just thought would drop you a mail; attended your sound and light show on May 15 2008 ; it was a memorable and wonderful evening;great food;a good tour and show.
My best to all the staff; a great job
Thanks Again
Gary Murphy
Allen, Texas
Just returned home from Moab, the highlight of the trip was the 4 hour jet boat ride. Our guide (Andrew) was very informed on the area and shared this information with us. Thanks again! I will reccomend your company with everyone who is headed your way, and when in the gift shop don't forget to purchase a bag of anasazi beans with the "special" spoon :)
Sondra Robin Detroit, Michigan
We loved our visit with you and want to show our pictures of that most memorable night of our entire trip. We did other things hiking the Narrows at Zion and hiking down the canyon at Bryce. But we enjoyed that evening light show it left us feeling so great to live in our country!
Tennie and Bill Lundy
I just wanted to take time and say thank you for the wonderful adventure on your Jet Boat last month. We truly enjoyed ourselves and it was so beautiful. We took your Canyonlands by Night last year and were so impressed that we had to do the Jet Boat this year. We look forward to doing another trip with you next year.
Sandy & Dale Anderson
Riverside, Calif.
We just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that we had a wonderful time on both the evening tour and the day tour. What a spectacular venue. Both Preston and Andrew were outstanding with the knowledge and humor part of the tours. I would go again if I were there.
Ray and Melody March
Florissant, CO
My wife and I were part of the most recent Trafalgar Tour party with Greg
Martin.
We thoroughly enjoyed your Canyonlands by Night excursion up the Colorado River. I wish that you could bottle the setting and the environment for us to take home with us for those work days when the stress of the day builds
and something is needed to unwind and relax. Your evening of dinner and the boat cruise was just magnificent! We hope to visit you again in the future.
Thanks for your hospitality!
Stephen Fader
Just wanted to drop you a line to thank you for our fabulous sound and light show. We have just spent 4 weeks in USA and that evening looking at the awe-inspiring canyon walls and letting our imagination run was just fantastic. The memory of floating along the Colorado while gazing at the beautiful night sky will stay with us forever.
You all do a fantastic job and obviously love it. We hope you can continue to show people what a beautiful, amazing and magical country you live in for a long time to come.
Best wishes
Breige & Darren Crossley
Nottingham, England
I just wanted to drop you a note regarding the fantastic time we had last week on your Jet Boat/Hummer combo and Dutch Oven Dinner/Light Show combo. Special kudos should go to Rory (Jetboat) and Mike (Hummer)
for making it the single best day of our vacation out west. We could not have be more pleased or impressed with every person we met on the Canyonland's staff. My only disappointment was in not finding one of your t-shirts in my size in the gift shop but I guess that happens when you book towards the end of summer.
The entire family fell in love with Moab and we hope to return in the next couple of years to stay for a week instead of just a few days. You can rest assured that we'll look you up again.
Steve Cormier
Preston,
Thank you for a most memorable day. We enjoyed all your intellectual information, spoof and otherwise.
Best Wishes,
Bobbie and Bill Lawrence
Tacoma, WA
I am sure that you are not in need of any more positive rave reviews of the awesome Sound & Light Show, however, I just wanted to let you know that it was a very awe inspiring and spiritual experience. Definitely worth absorbing the hot, dry, desert air while viewing some of the most majestic land formations in the world during the day to be followed by the nights gentle cool breeze coming off of the quiet still water of the river. While we idled slowly below magnificent rock formations from millions of years ago. The tour guide unpretigiously stirred our imaginations until the sun had set and then left us in our private thoughts to experience the sight, the smells and expertly choreographed "Sound and Light Show". I think that every American young and old should have the opportunity to experience this wonder. And, maybe, especially those that have experienced the sight, sound and smell of war to keep America, our heritage,our history, and our land preserved the way our forefathers envisioned. I, too, have to say that it was definitely the highlight of our honeymoon. Rick & I recommend it to everyone and we certainly hope that we have a chance to experience it again sometime.
Thank You so Much!
Rick & Shirley Sparks
Oklahoma
We have just returned from four week's holiday in the USA during which visit we did numerous organised trips. One of these was your jet/float trip on the Colorado and we just wanted to say how much we enjoyed this. Of all the trips we did this for us was the most memorable. From being picked up from our hotel to being returned after the trip it was just wonderful. Your driver, Rory, was very knowledgable and also very personable and amusing and he helped to make the trip all the more enjoyable. If ever we visit Moab again we shall make sure we enjoy doing the whole trip again and, if we have time, trying one of your other organised outings. We shall certainly let all our friends who are intending to visit the area know about your tours.
Again many thanks for helping to make this one of our best trips yet to America.
Diana and Bill Parker
Sir, I just got back from a "Premier Tour 2 Trains and 4 Corners" with Judith Pearsons as our Tour Director. She was great and she had highly recommended "Canyonlands By Night"! I just wanted to let you and your staff know it was the "Highlight" of my trip! It was an experience of a lifetime! It was breathtaking, spectacular and much more! It will stay with me for a long time! I just had to let you know! "Thank" you and your staff for putting on an unforgettable event like "Canyonlands By Night".
Barbara Pardue
And, lastly, before I forget... for anybody visiting the area, a company called "Canyonlands by Night & Day" gets my highest possible recommendation if you are looking for excursions into the beautiful countryside. I took both their "Land Before Time" 4-wheel drive tour and their "Where the Wild River Runs" jet boat tour and found them to be exemplary in every respect. When visiting these kinds of places, it's often difficult to know which company to choose, because there are so many and all of them advertise being "the best" (and sometimes end up being complete crap) but I got very, very lucky in finding this one. My only regret since I got here is that I don't have more time so I can sample some of the other adventures they offer (or do the two I've already done all over again).
David Simmer II
We just wanted to write and thank you for the wonderful trip Rory took us on. It was great that you did the trip for just the two of us. We think it was the highlight of our week in Moab. Rory was outstanding! We would recommend the trip to anyone.
Many thanks to you for making our day!
Deana & Mike Aaronson
We took your advice and hiked to Landscape, we drove to Delicate Arch Viewpoint, saw Park Avenue, hiked to Mesa Arch and Upheaval Dome, saw Green River and Grand View overlooks. All of it...overwhelming!!! Thank you ever so much for the personal tour in your personal truck. I'm sitting here in Austin, Texas, looking at my Mormon Tea and planning on having it one night this week. You and your company are terrific, and we saw a side of Moab, I believe, few people have seen, simply because of you and your company's nature. Congratulations on fully satisfying these two Texans. If we pass your way again... you'll see us. For now, we'll sing y'all's praises for a wonderful vacation that you blessed us with. You went above and beyond that of which we are used to. Please relay all this to Rory, because he was the other integral part of your wonderful service.
Thank you again
Jim and Carol Sweeney,
Austin, Texas
We contacted Preston and Rory Paxman before we came to Moab and found them to be genuinely interested in providing us with an exciting visit as they were when we had our first trip down the mighty Colorado River with them. The Paxman family truly enjoys the Moab area and what they do along the river. We had a great evening during Canyonlands by Night and then on Saturday afternoon, we enjoyed every minute of our jet boat journey down river for 30 miles and the return. Each boat trip was narrated by the Paxman men who made every bend of the river more interesting than the last. They demonstrate so much knowledge of the river and skill in navigating it. They also make their guests very aware of the natural beauty and wonder of the area as well as the need to preserve it. Luann and Rachel made the culinary events a treat as well. Now we are wanting more than ever to return to southern Utah on another vacation!
W. Parker Greene
Valdosta, GA
I had the opportunity to take your half day jet boat tour last week while visiting Moab/Arches/Canyonlands. I would just like to add my compliments to Rory for an enjoyable, educational and entertaining afternoon. Rory's vast knowledge of the area and his sense of humor made for a very enjoyable trip! This was my first visit to your state but I'm sure it won't be the last, thanks to special people like Rory.
Keep up the great work!
Steve Reeder
Lewistown, PA
I have come here for many, many years and it never gets old. On the contrary, it gets better every time. I have never enjoyed it more than this time.
Special C.B.N. Friend
Heidi Beck
Oakland, CA
It was spectacular! Loved it!! The pictures don't do it justice, I was simply blown away!
Jean Johnston of NM
It was a magical day looking down at what I usually look up too. An eagle's view of such beautiful views. I am soaring in my head!
Love, Bernard Margs
I just wanted to say "Thanks" for all the help that me and a friend received from your staff while we were on vacation in Moab last week. Rory was great doing the morning jet boat tour and especially with helping us with our luggage when we moved from Camelot Lodge to town. And Mallory was so helpful with allowing me to use the phone to check on our rental car shuttle and setting us up with the evening dinner and show. We had a wonderful time at the show! Keep up the good work and Thanks again!
Roseanne Barsamian
Thank you so much for your hospitality. I enjoyed my visit to So. Utah, it is very beautiful and the people I met were great. I will continue to recommend this area as a vacation destination. I will also return soon.
Patti Bradley
AAA Sales and Service Associate
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