How good is Down the River?

Down the River has a Lunoo score of 8.8/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

Where does Down the River rank on Lunoo?

Down the River is ranked #39 in Lunoo's Best Travelogue rankings with a score of 8.1/10.

Is Down the River worth it in 2026?

Down the River scores 8.8/10 in the Travelogue category on Lunoo. Compare it with alternatives to find the best fit for your needs.

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Down the River

8.10

Great

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Travelogue Nature 20TH Century River Americas Edward Abbey

description Down the River Overview

*Down the River* is a 1982 travelogue and nature writing collection by Edward Abbey detailing his river trips in the American West.

help Down the River FAQ

What is the main focus of Edward Abbey's 1982 book "Down the River"?

It is a collection of nature writing and travel essays where Edward Abbey details his river trips down various waterways in the American West. The book strongly advocates for the preservation of wilderness areas against industrial destruction.

Which specific rivers are featured in "Down the River"?

Abbey documents his journeys down the Colorado River through Glen Canyon, as well as the Green River in Utah. The book serves as an elegy for Glen Canyon, which was flooded by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam to create Lake Powell.

How does this book relate to Edward Abbey's famous novel "The Monkey Wrench Gang"?

"Down the River" explores the real-world environmental inspiration behind the plot of "The Monkey Wrench Gang," specifically the devastation caused by the Glen Canyon Dam. Abbey uses these river trips to articulate his radical eco-defense philosophy.

What specific environmental philosophy does the author promote in this travelogue?

Abbey promotes a brand of environmentalism often referred to as "monkey-wrenching," which argues for sabotage to protect nature. He articulates a deep-seated hatred for industrial tourism, government dams, and off-road vehicles in national parks.

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