Grand Canyon Rafting

Recommended Grand Canyon Rafting Tour: Colorado River Float Trip - More

The view from the South Rim is how most vacationers remember the Grand Canyon-- stunning and unforgettable, like a master's painting. But step into the picture and you become an intimate part of the kaleidoscope of colors, smells, sights and sounds of an ancient, untamed world. A Grand Canyon rafting experience is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that in one moment finds you drifting in peaceful solitude down a languid river framed by deep, shadowy canyon walls, next speed racing through gleaming white water rapids, ahead discovering thunderous cascading waterfalls. Side hiking trips reveal sparkling streams, spectacular side canyons, deserts, swimming holes, alpine forests, and Anasazi ruins. Every sense awakens on a Grand Canyon rafting trip!

Open air and the aroma of foods cooking in the outdoors sharpen the appetite, and you won't miss a meal prepared by your expert rafting guide, who doubles as storyteller and historian. When night falls, drift off to sleep in a cozy tent under a blanket of stars with the murmur of the Colorado River in the background...no cars, sirens, radios...just the soothing sounds of nature. Morning beckons as the first rays of sun slip over the canyon wall, instantly transforming night to day. It is a life changing journey.

Most Grand Canyon rafting trips depart from Lee's Ferry (north end of park). You can experience the grandeur for as little as 3 days or the whole 275 mile trip to Lake Mead in about 18 days (see oars.com). Opt for more--or less--white water. Is it dangerous? Thrilling, but not too dangerous; even if you should go overboard (few do), the river is not rocky. The upper portion of the Colorado River contains more of the white water rapids. The milder lower canyon is better suited to a family adventure. Few rafting trips take children younger than 10.

Make your reservations well ahead. Only licensed companies may offer rafting expeditions. Trips may be Oar, Paddle, Hybrid, or Motorized (see azraft.com for explanation of choices). You must be in excellent physical shape. A strenuous hike may be required to get to your start location or back from your end point. Prices start about $1600 for a 6-day trip (see westernriver.com).

Most expeditions have you covered for all but some special clothing. You will need waterproof sneakers, socks that wick moisture away, swim suit, rain suit, windbreaker, long underwear (for the occasional cool night), sun hat, eye protection. Also waterproof camera, water bottle, skin protectant (both sun screen and moisturizer), flashlight. Outfitters like Paragon Sports or Barts Water Sports can help you with the right gear.

Bon voyage!