Information On Colorado River Grand Canyon White Water Rafting

Rafting down the Colorado River can be an intimate way to experience the Grand Canyon's colorful formations. Enjoy gentle to vigorous physical activity while rafting the pristine river waters and enjoy healthy, camp-style meals before sleeping under the stars. One-day trips include both smooth water and whitewater runs launched between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry on the northeastern end of the Grand Canyon, according to the National Park Service, or from Diamond Creek on the western end.

When to Go

June and August are the main months when people book whitewater rafting trips, and reservations are highly recommended during these times, according to the National Park Service. Keep in mind that summertime is the season for occasional thunderstorms and flash floods. May and September are also pleasant times of year to raft the Colorado River due to mild temperatures. Temperatures peak around 70 degrees Fahrenheit in May and 76 degrees Fahrenheit in September, according to the Arizona Leisure Vacation guide.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open year-round, although some facilities are closed in winter. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is open for camping between mid-May and mid-October.

What to Expect

Grand Canyon whitewater rafting outfitters offer motorized rafts or oar-powered boats. Oar-powered boats offer more of a traditional experience if you are interested in enjoying the physical exertion of paddling down the Colorado River alongside the guides. Motorized boats may be preferable for families with younger children, those interested in a smoother ride or people who enjoy the camaraderie of larger groups.

Trips offer views of brilliantly colored canyon walls, rushing white rapids and deep, glassy swimming holes. It is possible to view Native American hieroglyphics along some areas. Some rafters might spot mule deer, squirrels, beaver, coyote or bald eagles.

Most Colorado River whitewater rafting companies welcome first-time rafters aboard, although some may require that guests know how to swim and that everyone wear life vests. Expect to get wet at times, although you may choose the intensity level of the trip when making a reservation.

Multi-day trips involve camping outdoors, including sleeping and eating. Most companies prepare hot meals for dinner, while lunchtime meals may involve cold cuts and sandwiches. In the afternoons and evenings, there is time for hiking, fishing, swimming and relaxing onshore.

What to Bring

After registering with a Colorado River whitewater rafting company, they typically send you a list of items to pack for the trip. Common suggestions include sunglasses, waterproof sunscreen, hat, waterproof camera, water bottle and clothing made from materials other than cotton for the river ride. For camping, common suggestions include a sleeping bag, ground pad, rain jacket, headlamp and insect repellent. If you are planning to hike or fish, double-check with the tour outfitter to make sure it's okay to bring appropriate gear.

Cost

The cost of whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon varies depending on trip length, level of service provided by tour company and in some cases, time of year. In 2010, three-day trips cost around $1,195 while 12-day trips cost in excess of $2,695.

Outfitters

There are a number of companies offering Colorado River whitewater rafting tours. Arizona River Runners offers both motorized and oar-powered rafting trips from early April through mid-October, with trips ranging in length from three to 13 days, according to the company website. Western River trips range from three to seven days, with special options for families, couples, first-time rafters and solo travelers, according to the company website. They offer trips from May through September.