Glorious Grand Canyon Rafting Trips
Grand Canyon rafting trips along the Colorado River are invigorating and breathtaking.
Whitewater aficionados have declared Grand Canyon rafting trips to be among the finest whitewater experiences in the world.
It's no wonder. The wild Colorado offers Class IV and V rapids combined with some of the most stunning scenery on earth. What more could you ask for in an adventure activity?
But for those searching for a "milder" trip, it's still possible to enjoy a Grand Canyon rafting trip. It's just a matter of choosing the right guide and mode of transportation on the right stretch of river.
Why a Guided Trip?
At this date and time, the Grand Canyon National Park service has a long waiting list of non-commercial whitewater rafters who are hoping for an opportunity to paddle the waters of the Colorado River through the park.
Due to that fact, your at best chance enjoying a Grand Canyon rafting trip means making reservations with any of the dozens of outfitters who run hundreds of tours through the Canyon each year.
"Reservations" is a key word. Due to the popularity of these tours, they fill up quickly, particularly in the peak summer months. Plan far in advance if you hope to enjoy one of these tours on your next vacation, especially if you're traveling with your family or large group.
Trip Options
There are a number of ways to make your way down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.
For rugged outdoor-types, all-paddle trips are the only way to go. These are highly-participatory trips where guests will be doing the work that it takes to navigate the river and its sometimes wild rapids.
Others may choose oar-boat trips, where guides do the paddling and guests sit back and enjoy the scenery. Hybrid trips are also available for guests who want the best of both worlds. On these tours, you can switch from oar boat to paddle boat.
Guests who have a limited amount of time to explore the Canyon may choose a motorized Grand Canyon boat trip. These trips allow visitors to see all 225 miles of the river inside the Canyon in fewer days than it takes to paddle the mighty Colorado.
Many outfitters combine hiking with rafting for a true multi-sport adventure through the Canyon.
Trip Lengths
A handful of outfitters provide one-day excursions through the Grand Canyon. Rafting trips like this involve a helicopter ride to the floor of the canyon where guests can climb aboard their boat and paddle for the remainder of the day.
Often, these one-day trips take place on the calm parts of the river and are suitable for children as well as adults.
Most Grand Canyon rafting trips on the Colorado River range from 5 or 6 days up to more than 2 weeks. They include picturesque camping opportunities and delicious barbecues along the banks of the river. Lifelong friendships form on these tours.
Special Trips
Some longer trips are dubbed "specialty" trips and include travels with Canyon historians, ecologists, geologists, or archaeologists. These trips are fascinating and perfect for those who want a little more than just an extreme adventure.
Specialized photography tours include the help of a professional who will assist you in setting up perfect shots of the Grand Canyon. You'll be sharing them for years with your family and friends!
Don't forget…If a Grand Canyon rafting trip is on your list, plan your trip far in advance, research outfitters, and make a reservation with the one you've chosen as soon as possible. Grand Canyon rafting trips sell out quickly and you don't want to be disappointed.