grand canyon rafting trips 2023

Reservations: 800.477.7238

Reserve: 800.477.7238

Grand Canyon River Rafting

Find your perfect grand canyon trip.

Rafting the Grand Canyon has been our passion since 1970. We can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you! Our staff will be with you every step of the way from helping you find the right trip until you return home – exhausted, sandy, and full of happy memories.

Our river crew will guide you through famous rapids, take you to waterfalls deep within the canyon, and wow you with their backcountry culinary skills. We strive to make Grand Canyon river trips a reality for those with an adventurous spirit and desire to see the canyon up close.

Explore What We Offer: Compare Trip Types How to Choose A Typical Day

"The trip was amazing! Seeing the canyon from the river was unbelievable. The scenery, excitement, relaxation, rhythm of sleeping and rising with the sun.....all of it made this time one of the most relaxing vacations I have ever had! Everyone should do this!" - Lyn, age 62

Grand Canyon River Expeditions

Grand Canyon river trips are much more than a tour. These multi-day expeditions can have an empowering effect as passengers travel along the river through world-famous whitewater and hike to unimaginable places. Completely unplugged from the distractions above the rim, our guests find it easy to spend quality time with family members and friends – old and new. Each day is capped with a hearty meal and camping under a canopy of stars. Explore our trip types or contact our helpful staff to find a Grand Canyon itinerary that’s just right for you.

• Motor Trips
• Hiker’s Special Trips

• 3 Day Video Itinerary
• 3 Day Ranch Activities
• 3 Day River Activities

No question too small!

Want more info on river trip availability, packing, FAQs?

Call us now at 1-800-544-2691

• Motorized River Trip
• Dory River Trip
• Art On The Water
• Ecology Trip
• Geology Trip
• Hiking Trip
• Photography Trip
• History Trip
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• Guest Photos | 2024 Season Gallery
• Guest Photos | 2023 Season Gallery
• Side Canyon Gallery
• Waterfalls Gallery
• Dory Rafting Gallery
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• Meals on the River
• Grand Canyon Trivia
• GCE’s COVID-19 Updates
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Explore the Grand Canyon like never before!

Welcome to grand canyon expeditions.

GCE has been an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service since 1964. Our trips allow you to experience areas of the Grand Canyon that are only found from the water, explore side canyons that hide emerald pools, hidden waterfalls, beautiful flowers and plants, and wildlife that is just as laid back as you are. Relax and enjoy sleeping under the endless tapestry of stars, eating delicious meals, and letting life on the Colorado River become part of who you are. Grand Canyon Expeditions rafting tours create memories that last a lifetime.

Call us or book now for an adventure of a lifetime!

8 & 9 Day Motorized River Trip

An out-of-this-world adventure. In eight memorable days, you will cover approximately 277 river miles, negotiating nearly 200 exciting white water rapids in safety and first-class comfort.

14 & 16 Day Dory River Trip

For those who want a longer, more in-depth and up-close experience a dory trip is for you. Since most people raft the Grand Canyon only once, it makes sense to have time to drift, to wander, and to ponder.

What Makes GCE Different

With over 57 years of rafting the Grand Canyon, our intimate knowledge of the Grand Canyon and its breathtaking geologic features, rich historical sites, and hidden wonders, make your vacation an experience, and not just a Colorado River whitewater trip. Take the opportunity to raft 277 scenic miles through Grand Canyon on our 8 & 9 day motorized and 14 & 16 Day Dory Trips. During your Grand Canyon rafting experience our guides will take you on tours that include everything from hiking and swimming in side canyons to running class IV whitewater rapids that spray refreshing jets of liquid diamonds into the air.

Typical Day on the River

Check out the itinerary for what a typical day looks like rafting through the Grand Canyon.

All of our expeditions begin and end in Las Vegas, Nevada. Be sure to arrive the afternoon or evening the day before to your river trip. Las Vegas is served by many major airlines, making travel arrangements easy….

Frequently Asked Questions

Get some of your questions answered with our FAQ’s. If you find that you still have some unanswered questions please don’t hesitate to call or click here to message us!

Trip Dates, Fares & Availability

Trip availability for 2024.

August 13th:  15 day full canyon (8 openings) September 3rd: 15 day full canyon (2 openings) September 22nd: 15 day All-Paddle Full Canyon trip (1 opening) and 7 day All-Paddle Upper Canyon trip (1 opening) September 28th: 9 day Lower Canyon trip (3 openings) October 6th: 16 day full canyon (5 openings) October 18th: New Charter Opportunity (12 or more openings)

Please call our reservations team for more information: 800.654.0723

Trip Fares Include : Transportation to and from the river on all trips; sleeping gear and tent; $60 takeout fee to the Hualapai Tribe on Full and Lower trips; Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee; complimentary mug and illustrated waterproof river guide; $1/day for conservation. There are no added sales tax charges, nor any additional fee for paddle boat participation. Visit our Trip Package page for more details. Trip fares are subject to approval by the National Park Service.

• HS are Hiker’s Special trips, SQ is our String Quartet trip, ASTRO  is our astronomy trip, and BOT is our botany-focused trip.
• All trips are Hybrid trips unless followed by P (All Paddle Trips).

Full Canyon 16 Day – $6,190 / 15 Day – $5,950 / 14 Day – $5,650 Upper 7 Day – $3,385 Lower 9 Day – $4,185 / 8 Day – $3,785

*Fares updated 9/19/23

Prices include transportation to and from the river, sleeping gear and tent, and entrance and exit fees. There are no added taxes or surcharges for paddle boat participation. Prices are subject to approval by the National Park Service.

• HS are Hiker’s Special trips , BOT is our botany-focused trip, SQ is our String Quartet trip and ASTRO is our astronomy trip.

Full Canyon 16 Day – TBD / 15 Day – TBD / 14 Day – TBD Upper 7 Day – TBD Lower 9 Day – TBD / 8 Day – TBD

The glories and the beauties of form, color, and sound unite in the Grand Canyon – forms unrivaled even by the mountains, colors that vie with sunsets, and sounds that span the diapason from tempest to tinkling raindrop, from cataract to bubbling fountain.

~ John Wesley Powell

Explore Grand Canyon With Us

Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

• Rafting Trips in Arizona, Utah, Alaska
• 5 Star Rated Rafting and River Trip Vacations
• Grand Canyon Rafting Trips Since 1971
• We Provide Everything You Need For A Great Rafting Trip and Vacation

Book Your Adventure Today!

(800) 253-7328.

Cataract Canyon Rafting Canyonlands

Desolation Canyon Green River Rafting

Alaska River Rafting Trips

Incredible grand canyon whitewater rafting trips.

                                                                                                                                          “Here I am writing another review for the BEST River Company. I have used CRATE seven times for river adventures and they have yet to disappoint me. ”    -Kevin M                                                

                               We Have 2024 Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Availability

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions (CRATE) has been a licensed white water rafting concessionaire in the Grand Canyon since 1971. We began rafting other stretches of the Green River and Colorado Rivers shortly thereafter, including Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon, and Westwater Canyon. In 1978, we explored the Tatshenshini and Alsek Rivers in Alaska and soon added those wild and remote rivers to our catalog of rafting adventures. For nearly 50 years, we have consistently provided high quality, fully outfitted rafting adventures through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the west.

Off-river hiking and side canyon exploration are emphasized on all of our river trips. Our guests have unique opportunities to see and experience the remote back country beauty, as well as the grandeur of the river corridors and the thrill of white water rafting!

If you are looking for a fun, exciting, and unforgettable outdoor adventure, contact us today for more information about the Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon, Alaska, and our other river rafting trips.

One of the best trips of my life!

I can't say enough good things about this trip, company, and their employees. Myself and about 8 other folks just did a 5 day float with CRATE through the lower Grand Canyon. Their employees Walker and Bonnie were not only super nice, laid-back, and professional but also very knowledgeable about the canyon and answering any of our questions about the rocks, flora, fauna, or history of the canyon. The entire time we were comfortable, safe, and well fed! the food they whip up every meal time is great! Book your trip with CRATE and you will have an excellent experience!

Daniel C. - TripAdvisor

Find Your Rafting Experience

There are many different rafting trip adventures and experiences to choose from. find the one thats right for you.

8 Day Motorized Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Starting at $3925 per person

Grand Canyon Natural History Special Emphasis on geology and off-river hiking to unique eco-zones and archaeological sites with professional naturalists.

Starting at $4305 per person

11 Day Motorized Spring Hiking and Rafting Expedition

Spring Hiking & Rafting Special The focus is on off-river hiking and exploration.

Starting at $4620 per person

4-5 Day Motorized Rafting Trip

Cataract Canyon Starting at $1695 per person + Flight

5 Day Rowing Trip

Desolation Canyon

Starting at $1650 per adult + Flight $995 Ages 12-18 + Flight

11 Day Tatshenshini Rafting Expedition

TATSHENSHINI RAFTING EXPEDITION Named the #1 River Trip in the World in National Geographi c

Starting at $5895 per person

Reviews of CRATE Rafting Trips

Rafting Since 1971

Proud Partners With

Phone: (800) 253-7328 (801) 261-1789 Fax: (801) 268-1193

Main office: 5058 s. commerce drive salt lake city, ut 84107 click for directions mailing address po box 57575 salt lake city utah 84157-0575, mon-fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (mt), recent whitewater rafting adventure news, splash into summer 2024 go rafting with colorado river & trail expeditions.

  Splash Into Summer Colorado River & Trail Expeditions(CRATE) has availability on many of our rafting trips in 2024.  And we want your business!  This is a great year to reconnect with nature, get outside, and take advantage of these opportunities.   We specialize in multi-day guided rafting expeditions on the

Instructions for Replacing the Tiller Handle on a Tohatsu MFS 30D

Instructions for Replacing the Tiller Handle on the Tohatsu MFS 30D   Step 1:  Remove the Upper Cowling by unhooking the latch at the back of the motor Step 2:  Remove the (2) 10 mm bolts that hold the side cover piece Step  3.  Remove the Rubber Grommet that holds

A February Update of the Colorado River Basin Snowpack and what it means for Rafting

February 7, 2024 What do atmospheric rivers mean for the Colorado River Basin? Outside, at our office in Salt Lake City, the sky is dark and the rain is falling.  Overall the winter in Utah has felt mild.  January was full of warmer than average temperatures due to a high

CRATE Rafting Trips Since 1971

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Plan Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Find the perfect Colorado River adventure for you

Choose the trip that’s right for you

Meet Our River Guides

Highly skilled, fun and talented.

Grand Canyon Whitewater guides will have you laughing and learning your way through the Canyon.

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“go for it and don’t look back”, “a+ or 10+, whichever you prefer”, “thank you, gcw”, “we will definitely be coming back”, stay up to date with grand canyon whitewater.

Grand Canyon Whitewater PO Box 2848, Flagstaff, Arizona 86003 United States of America [email protected] 800-343-3121

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This service is operated by Grand Canyon Whitewater, LLC., a Concessioner under contract with the U.S. Government and administered by the National Park Service. The Concessioner is responsible for conducting these operations in a satisfactory manner. Prices are approved by the National Park Service.

928.526.4700

Motorized grand canyon river rafting.

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Grand Canyon Motorized Rafting Tours

Rafting the Grand Canyon is the Ultimate Adventure

Take an extraordinary voyage on one of our motorized rafts and let yourself become absorbed by the magic of Grand Canyon . Try sitting up front in “the bathtub” for at least a few rapids – you won’t regret it!

Our motorized Grand Canyon rafting tour is by far our most popular whitewater rafting expedition . Choose our 7 Day Full Canyon expedition and see it all from Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash, or spend 4 days getting to know the Upper Canyon or 4-5 days in the Lower Canyon.

If you have questions about one or more of the following Grand Canyon motorized rafting trips, see if we’ve answered them on our FAQ page . Otherwise, please reach out directly.

Grand Canyon Motorized Raft Trips

The Ultimate Rafting Adventure

7 Day Grand Canyon River Rafting Trip

Your Epic 7 Day Grand Canyon Expedition

Experience the Grand Canyon on a 7-day, 6-night rafting expedition. Your adventure begins with a night’s stay at Cliff Dwellers Lodge. Then, conquer 188 miles of the Colorado River, navigating thrilling rapids, exploring hidden side canyons with waterfalls and ancient ruins, and enjoying refreshing swims. After each action-packed day, savor delicious meals prepared by your crew and unwind under the Canyon’s starlit sky. Your journey concludes with a scenic helicopter flight to Bar 10 Ranch and a fixed-wing plane to Marble Canyon or Las Vegas. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and deepen your understanding of the Grand Canyon’s wonders. Learn more in this downloadable 7 Day Full Grand Canyon Motorized Trip packet .

2024 Standard Price

2024 MID-SUMMER RATE (JUL-AUG)

2025 Standard Price

2025 MID-SUMMER RATE (JUL-AUG)

Pre-Trip Stay

Pre-trip stay at Cliff Dwellers or another lodge

Total Distance

Exit transportation.

Flight to either Marble Canyon or the Las Vegas international airport

7 DAY GRAND CANYON WHITEWATER EXPEDITION

A great experience start to finish.

Join us for 7 days and 6 nights as we travel down the Colorado River, exploring the incredible Grand Canyon. Start your vacation the night before launching with the included lodging at Cliff Dwellers Lodge. Launch the next morning raft 188 miles from Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash, and experience intense rapids, beautiful hikes, ancient ruins, waterfalls, and memorable swimming spots. After each day’s events, enjoy a plentiful and delicious feast made with love by your crew while you relax at camp under the glowing stars beyond the canyon walls. On the last day of your trip, take a scenic helicopter ride out of the Canyon to Bar 10 Ranch, where you will say your goodbyes before boarding a fixed-wing plane to either return to Marble Canyon or head to the Las Vegas international airport.

Motorized Grand Canyon rafting trips are exhilarating! To learn more, download the trip packet below.

$3,796 /person

$3,546 /person, $3,936 /person, $3,677 /person, 4 day upper grand canyon expedition, a 4-day and 3-night rafting adventure.

Discover the Upper Grand Canyon on a thrilling 4-day expedition. Start your journey at Cliff Dwellers Lodge in Marble Canyon, Arizona, amidst the breathtaking Vermilion Cliffs. Raft 89 miles of the Colorado River, conquering iconic rapids like Soap Creek, House Rock, Grapevine, and Hance. Your adventure culminates with a challenging 9.5-mile hike on the Bright Angel Trail from Phantom Ranch to the Canyon’s South Rim. Experienced guides ensure your safety and enrich your understanding of the Grand Canyon’s geology and history. Learn more in this downloadable 4-Day/3-Night Upper Grand Canyon Motorized Trip packet .

89 miles of rafting from Lees Ferry to near Phantom Ranch

The Hike Out

9.5 mile hike up Bright Angel Trail Minimum age 12 years old

Not included for upper canyon trips

Begin your adventure at the Cliff Dwellers Lodge beneath the stunning Vermilion Cliffs in Marble Canyon, Arizona. Then, spend 4 days and three nights exploring the 89 river miles from Lees Ferry to the bottom of Bright Angel Trail. Each day is packed with adventure as you traverse Grand Canyon’s thrilling rapids, including “Soap Creek,” “House Rock,” “Grapevine,” and “Hance.” On the last day of your trip, hike an intense 9.5 miles on the Bright Angel Trail from near Phantom Ranch to the South Rim of Grand Canyon.

Upper and lower canyon trips will be limited in 2024 and 2025 due to construction planned for Bright Angel Trail by the National Parks Service. Check out our full canyon trips here , or reach out to join our waiting list in case we add additional trips to the calendar later.

To learn more about our 4-day upper motorized rafting Grand Canyon tour, download the packet.

$1,864 /person

4-5 day lower grand canyon whitewater expedition, raft, hike, and explore the lower grand canyon.

Challenge yourself with a thrilling Grand Canyon expedition! Choose between a 4-day/3-night or 5-day/4-night adventure rafting 99 miles of the Colorado River. Your journey begins with a demanding 9.5-mile hike down the Bright Angel Trail into the heart of the Canyon. Conquer legendary rapids like Hermit, the Gems, and Lava Falls. Conclude your trip with a scenic helicopter flight to Bar 10 Ranch and a fixed-wing plane to the South Rim or Las Vegas. Expert guides ensure your safety and provide insights into the Canyon’s unique environment. Learn more in this downloadable 4-5-Day Lower Grand Canyon Motorized Trip packet .

2024 4-Day Price

2024 5-Day Price

2025 4-Day Price

2025 5-Day Price

The Hike In

9.5 mile hike down Bright Angel Trail Minimum age 12 years old

99 miles of rafting from near Phantom Ranch to Whitmore Wash

Flight to either the South Rim or Las Vegas international airport

Not included for lower canyon trips

4-5  Day Lower Grand Canyon Rafting Expedition

Choose a 4 or 5 day grand canyon rafting trip.

Spend 4 days/3 nights or 5 days/4 nights rafting the 99-mile span between the foot of Bright Angel Trail and Whitmore Wash. On day one, check in with your hiking guide at 5 am at the South Rim and then begin the intense 9.5-mile descent into the Grand Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Experience rapids like “Hermit,” “The Gems,” and “Lava Falls.” On your last morning, board a helicopter for a scenic ride out of the Canyon to Bar 10 Ranch and take a few final photographs before you depart on a fixed-wing plane either back to the South Rim or to the Las Vegas international airport.

$2,345 /person

$2,710 /person, want a private charter.

Turn your Grand Canyon dream trip into reality with our Private Charter options at Hatch River Expeditions. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or special occasions, our private charters offer a personalized and exclusive experience tailored to your preferences. Enjoy the luxury of having a raft to yourselves, guided by our expert team who will curate an itinerary just for you. Whether it’s seeking thrilling rapids, serene stretches for relaxation, or specific hiking trails, we can craft a journey that aligns with your group’s interests and pace. A private charter not only provides flexibility and privacy but also a unique opportunity to bond and create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most stunning natural settings.

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Leave your watch behind and the details to us.

A - Lees Ferry

Grand canyon rafting map, b - phantom ranch, c - whitmore wash.

If you’re hungry for Grand Canyon River rafting, with loads of white water rapids and lots of miles, this is the Colorado Rafting Trip for you. Aboard your Wilderness River Adventures motor-powered or oar-powered raft, you’ll experience 188 river miles, complete with 67 rated rapids that you can brag about for years to come!

To Get Started

Choose from 4 rafting trip presented below. All raft trips travel that same distance on the river and include that same superb services and equipment. All you have to decide is how much time you would like to spend on the Colorado River and leave the rest to us.

6-Day Motorized Raft Trip: Dates & Rates

2024 & 2025 rates, trip includes transporation from las vegas to page at the beginning of the trip., 2024 dates & trip offers, 2025 dates & trip offers, 7-day motorized raft trip: dates & rates, 8-day motorized raft trip: dates & rates, preferred trip , preferred trip, 12-day oar-powered raft trip: dates & rates, hybrid raft trip  , 2024 dates & trips offers, 2025 dates & trips offers, pre-trip instructions.

The Day Before Trip Departure:

Please plan to arrive at Page, Arizona the day prior to your trip departure. As such, you will require accommodations in Page, AZ. If desired, Wilderness River Adventures will arrange your stay at Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas for an additional cost. Resort confirmations will be sent along with your trip instructions. You will be charged for your stay at the time of booking.

The Evening Before Trip Departure:

The evening before your trip departure you will need to attend our “Meet & Greet” orientation at  WRA Headquarters, 199 S. Kaibab Rd, Page, Arizona 86040 at 5:00 PM.

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ALL-PADDLE GRAND CANYON RAFT ADVENTURES

Our All-Paddle Adventure  offers the ultimate whitewater Grand Canyon rafting adventure as guests are required to participate on the paddle raft, every day. You won’t be paddling all day, non-stop, but when you’re on the rafts, you better believe you’ll be paddling! This is the best choice if you enjoy a physical challenge, teamwork and sharing time on the river with others who have a similar zest for adventure. This All Paddle trip offers three paddle rafts and three support oar rafts that carry the gear down river. Each paddle raft carries six paddlers, plus the paddle captain in the back of the raft who steers the raft and calls paddle commands. The camaraderie fostered on an All-Paddle Adventure makes this an unforgettable experience.

Our All-Paddle Adventures begin at Lee’s Ferry, river mile 0, and end at Diamond Creek*, river mile 226. In order to shorten this expedition, guests can hike in or out on the Bright Angel Trail. The Upper Canyon Adventure begins at Lee’s Ferry. At Pipe Creek, river mile 89, guests will make their way out of the Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Oppositely, the Lower Canyon begins at the South Rim of Grand Canyon, with a hike into the Canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. The Lower Canyon adventure ends at Diamond Creek*. 

*Diamond Creek, a dirt road alongside Diamond Creek Wash, is the only road to the bottom of Grand Canyon, and could become impassible due to severe flooding. Although this is rare, it is possible that trips may need to continue to Pearce Ferry Road at river mile 279, and could cause our expeditions to return to Flagstaff very late in the evening or possibly the next morning.

FULL CANYON

• 226 River miles
• 3-4 paddle rafts, 3 oar boats to carry gear
• Round trip to and from Flagstaff
• Recommended Minimum age: 16
• Maximum group size: 18 or 24 guests
• 2024 Price: $5,275
• 2025 Price: $5,520

Photo ©Ralph Hopkins

UPPER CANYON

• 89 River miles
• From Flagstaff to South Rim, GCNP
• 2024 Price: $2,989
• 2025 Price: $3,159

LOWER CANYON

• 137 River miles
• 3-4 paddle rafts, 3 oar rafts that carry gear
• From South Rim, GCNP to Flagstaff
• 2024 Price: $4,098
• 2025 Price: $4,330

What to pack when rafting the Grand Canyon

Posted: July 28, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Protective clothing

Camp pillow

Container with a lid

First aid kit

Daily contacts

Solar shower

Solar charger

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Dates are filling fast for 2023 Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Many people still labor under the impression that the year is only just beginning; the reality is that the year is going fast, and intelligent people are already making all the right arrangements they need to make the year memorable. Interestingly, this also applies to the world of whitewater rafting. Rafting trips run all year round, and at Advantage Grand Canyon , we have already drawn out a calendar with fun activities and incentives planned. 

Sadly, you may miss out on all the fun if you waste too much time booking your trip . We don't want this to happen, so in this article, we will outline some of the benefits of booking your trip early, what steps you should take, and some of the adventurous trips planned at Advantage Grand Canyon to make your year memorable and fun-filled.

Why You Should Book Your River Trip Early

With dates filling at a rapid rate for this year, there are several reasons why booking river trips early is advantageous for you. Here are a few reasons:

Availability of Trip Dates

Dates are usually more available earlier in the year but decrease as the year winds down. Even booking close to the trip may be too late. Booking early offers you more variety as you'd have more dates to pick, and your preferred date will still be available.

Booking Early Saves You Money

Many rafting outfitters like to offer early bird discounts on their rafting trips as the year rolls out. Some can even offer a 30% discount on some trips. Booking early gives you access to money-saving offers that would be withdrawn as trips get booked, or trip dates get closer.

Get the Preferred Date for Loved Ones'

Rafting routes usually have different classifications depending on the type of rapids you'd likely encounter. Intense rapids require more physical effort and may not be for every family member. Some families often find that they can't pick a date because the route difficulty isn't friendly to a family member. Booking early allows you to pick a date and a route that suits all your loved ones.

Why you Should Go on a Grand Canyon Trip

Whitewater rafting is a popular activity that appeals to the sense of adventure of many people. But it is more than just fun and cheap thrills. Here are some benefits of whitewater rafting:

Learning About Nature 

Grand Canyon Rafting trips usually go through some of the most breathtaking scenes. You'll encounter caves, waterfalls, rapids, and the Grand Canyon. All the while, you'll have a tour guide telling you about how some of these points came about. Learning about nature while immersed in it will surely make an indelible mark on your mind.

Great Form of Exercise

Rafting trips are usually rigorous affairs; asides from rowing through the rapids, you can also go swimming and hiking. The rigorous nature of the rafting trip makes it a good thing, as exercise is generally good for the system.

Create Awesome Memories

If you plan on taking a Grand Canyon rafting trip with your family, you'll quickly discover that you can have many beautiful memories with them. Between bouncing off a raft, taking peaceful hikes, and taking lots of goofy pictures, you're bound to make many memories for years to come.

Great Bonding Experience

Besides making good memories, you also have a bonding experience with your loved ones. While you roll together through rapids or take in the mind-blowing Grand Canyon as a family, no doubt you'll feel a connection with those you care deeply about.

Boost Your Self-Confidence

Many people usually doubt their abilities but if there is one thing that surviving a rafting trip can teach you is that you have more within you than you know. Many people who take rafting trips are often pleasantly surprised that they have more resilience than they knew.

Steps to Booking Your Grand Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trip

No doubt you don't want to miss out on the benefits of rafting. If you're a bit confused about how to book your trip, here are the steps you can take to book a spot:

Visit our Professional Outfitter's Website

One of the most important steps is getting the right outfitter. Outfitters will handle all your crucial arrangements, such as an experienced tour guide, camping locations, and other provisions. Hiring the wrong outfitter could make your trip less than ideal. Fortunately, Advantage Grand Canyon offers you the best of service and offers all 15 top outfitters in ONE PLACE. 

Choose a Rafting Trip on The Colorado River

Rafting trips range from beginner to advanced and are classified based on the difficulty of the rapids you'll encounter along the route. The duration varies, ranging from a day to a couple of weeks. Decide to book early, then choose your most preferred trip from our many trips. You'd want to consider your schedule and that of others if you're bringing loved ones along.

Pick a Date

There are several things to consider when picking a date. Naturally, you'd want to consider your schedule. Then you'll have to consider water levels and if there are suitable for you or those at your party. Another thing most people want to take note of is the peak season for rafting. Depending on your kind of person, you may or may not prefer crowded rafting season.

Book Your Spot Online

When carefully researching and considering everything, you want to book your spot quickly. As you already know, booking early can make you eligible for certain benefits. Visit the Advantage Grand Canyon website to make all your arrangements, and you will surely have a pleasant experience.

Some of Our Best Rafting Trips of 2023

The year is just beginning, but that doesn't mean we haven't mapped out ways to give you the best experience possible. Our trips have been designed to show you the Grand Canyon's beauty and ensure that you have the most memorable experience. Here are some of the best trips we are offering in 2023:

Western Grand Canyon River Trip

One of the most popular family trips is the Grand Canyons River trip. The trip involves camping along the mighty Colorado River . This route will carry you across the westernmost section of the Colorado River from Whitmore Wash to Lake Mead, and the trip will begin and end in Las Vegas, where you can optionally lodge.

From Las Vegas, the raft guide will take you to the Grand Canyon National Park Service , or the launch point for your trip, where you will experience the Grand Canyon within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. 

The Western Grand Canyon trip is a suitable adventure for different people, including children, since it isn't as strenuous as other trips. The route is ranked a beginner-level route as you will likely experience smooth-flowing water with medium to low-intensity rapids. Your guides will provide whatever you need for this trip, and they all have different specialties ranging from geology to local culture, canyon folklore, and history. 

Upper Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

The upper Grand Canyon rafting trip is a trip that passes through a lot of incredible sceneries. The trip begins at Lees Ferry and follows a narrow winding path through the Kaibab Plateau. 

If you're a photography buff, this trip will offer you plenty of beautiful photography spots, especially in the first few miles. The trip cuts across the milky blue waters of the Colorado River through the deepest part of the canyon, a hike of over 7.5 miles, rapids of varying classifications, and archeological sites.

You will also have the chance to see the Glen Canyon Dam , the side canyon hikes, the Shinumu Wash, the granaries of the Nankoweap canyons, and the twists and turns of Carbon Creek.

This trip ends at the Phantom Ranch . Rafter's then hike up and out of the Grand Canyon through the Bright Angel Trail to the South rim. It is possible to have motorized raft trips, paddle boats, and oar rafts.

Full Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Full Grand Canyon trips usually cover the entire length of the Grand Canyon, starting from Lees Ferry to Whitemore Wash, Diamond Creek, or Pearce Ferry , where we have provided a jet boat to shuttle across Lake Mead to await a motorcoach to Las Vegas. 

During the trip, you can explore Elves Chasm, Deer Creek Falls, Redwall Caverns, and the rapids such as the Lava Falls. You could also visit Matkatamiba, Nankoweap, and Havasu Canyon if you have more time. It is possible to choose between the type of boat and the trip duration.  There are human-powered rafts and motor trips, and the journey lasts between seven and eighteen days. Note that the longer the trip, the more side attractions you see.

The full canyon can travel 187 river miles from Whitmore Wash to 280 miles in Pearce Ferry, taken out of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon National Park. For the full Grand Canyon trip, you may opt for the oar raft, the dory trip, or the motorized trip.   

Motorized Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

If you want to see as much of the Grand Canyon without devoting a chunk of your time, then you should opt for a Motorized raft tour.  This type of tour is one of the most popular options for Grand Canyon rafting because it allows you to see more of the canyon than a human-powered raft in less time. Unlike other rafting trips, it is suitable for children ages eight and on.

Motorized rafting trips allow you to enjoy the 280 river miles of the Colorado river, help you maximize your time, and are advantageous for multi-generation families because it's less strenuous than other tours.

Grand Canyon Rafting and a Helicopter Trip

As you soar overhead in a helicopter ride, you will likely experience a deep sense of excitement while viewing the entire Grand Canyon and its side attractions in a panoramic and quick way.

As your crew can fly you over the Grand Canyon West Rim, you'll see the incredible scenery of the Colorado River, the Mojave Desert, the Hoover Dam , the Bypass Bridge, the Black Canyon, and even the now-extinct Fortification Hill Volcano. 

While the flight is on, the pilot will provide an in-flight tour commentary and narration to add flavor to what you're seeing. You will see as the colorful canyon walls tell a remarkable story of the Paleozoic Era from 250 to 550 million years and beyond. Whether you are still on the helicopter or have been settled into a comfortable river raft by your outfitter, the fun is only beginning.   

After the flight, you can start the rafting journey; the route will take you through pillars, rock formations, and wildlife. The tour guide will usually stop at beautiful spots so you can have a break and take a picture when possible. Combined with the Grand Canyon's grand size, exquisite colors, and rugged beauty, the journey is bound to be unforgettable.

Why You Should Book with Us

At Advantage Grand Canyon , we will provide all the information to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Our staff are experienced, have a vast knowledge of the Grand Canyon, and are eager to show a side of the Canyon most don't get to experiece. So, head on to our website and book a trip with us, and we promise you a safe, exciting, and indelible experience.

Rafting trips are an exciting experience for many, and they have many benefits for you and your loved ones. So, you have to plan in other to get the best experience. Spots are filling up fast, so you can't afford to delay. We have organized the best rafting trips at Advantage Grand Canyon to give you the most exciting experience. Contact us and Booking a trip with us will be the best decision you have ever made.

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Rivers & Oceans

Rafting and Adventure Travel

Grand Canyon Rafting and Helicopter Trips

While either a Grand Canyon rafting trip or a helicopter ride over Grand Canyon would be a trip of a lifetime for many people, it is possible to do both on the same trip. Numerous Grand Canyon Rafting trips in Arizona either start or end with a 5 to 7 minute helicopter ride in or out of the canyon. Below we walk through the different trip options. These rafting trips run from mid-March through October. Here are Grand Canyon helicopter tours without rafting .

Three Day Grand Canyon Rafting and Helicopter Trips

The 3-day Grand Canyon rafting trips float through the western part of Grand Canyon. Trips meet in Las Vegas and then take a small plane to the Bar 10 Ranch . It is possible to do a longer trip where you spend a night at the ranch. From here it is a 5 to 7 minute helicopter ride down to the Colorado River to meet the guides and rafts. After 3 days of motorized rafting and two nights camping on the river the group is transported back to Las Vegas.

Full Grand Canyon Motorized Rafting Trip with Helicopter

Start at Lees Ferry and raft the Colorado River through Grand Canyon for 7 days. Sleep on beaches, hike up side canyons, and raft the iconic rapids. At the end of the trip helicopter out of the canyon to Bar 10 Ranch and then catch a small plain back to Las Vegas. Not all full Grand Canyon trips end with a helicopter ride out of the canyon so be sure to request that type of trip.

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Grand Canyon Smooth Water Float, Airplane and Helicopter

This used to be the Grand Canyon 4-in-1 helicopter tour but the stop at the Grand Canyon Skywalk was discontinued during the start of the pandemic and as of now has not been restarted.

Now known as the Grand Canyon 3-in-1 helicopter tour, the Grand Canyon Helicopter, Airplane and Smooth-water Floats start in Las Vegas with a complimentary bus ride to the airport. From the airport a scenic flight provides views of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam before landing at Grand Canyon West Rim on the Hualapai Reservation. Once there, descend by helicopter down to the Colorado River at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Take a smooth water float on a pontoon boat up the river before retracing your steps back to Las Vegas.

Then retrace your steps back up the helicopter. At the top there is time to explore different views from the canyon rim before the airplane flight back to Las Vegas. A complementary bus pick up and drop off to most major hotels in Las Vegas is available.

Grand Canyon Helicopter and Smooth Water Video

Two-Day Grand Canyon Rafting and Helicopter Trips (Helicopter Not Running in 2024)

The 2-day Grand Canyon rafting trips meet on the Hualapai Reservation in Peach Springs. The trip travels by bus down the only “road” into the Grand Canyon. On the 2-day trip everyone starts off in paddle rafts to run 10 miles of fun whitewater in the Lower Granite Gorge. One night is spent sleeping along the river. The next day a motorized raft takes everyone downstream across the flat water. Just after the lunch stop there is an opportunity to take a helicopter out of the canyon and bypass the last couple of hours of flat water and sun. Either route, everyone ends up back in Peach Springs.

One Day Grand Canyon Rafting and Helicopter Trip (Not Running in 2023)

The one day Grand Canyon rafting trips are also on the Hualapai Reservation and meet in Peach Springs. This trip runs the same stretch of whitewater as the 2-day trip but they are able to do it in one day by using motorized rafts. After lunch there is the option to take the helicopter out of the canyon instead of spending a couple more hours rafting down flat water.

Looking for more fun while visiting Grand Canyon, read Christina’s article about popular attractions near Grand Canyon National Park and her guide to the South Rim .

Start Planning Your Best Adventure

Dispatches from adventure tours around the world and tips for intrepid travelers. Read Our Blog

Top Attractions Near Grand Canyon

While our specialty is Grand Canyon rafting, we have complied a list of 1/2 day and 1-day Grand Canyon attractions that will heighten your experience and work with your schedule! Below we have activities just outside of the South Rim, farther south near Sedona, north by Paige, Arizona and finally west near Las Vegas.

Keep Reading > Top Attractions Near Grand Canyon

Is the One or Two Day Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Better?

One question we are often asked at Rivers & Oceans is about the difference between taking a one-day and a two-day Grand Canyon rafting trip. Click here for the breakdown.

Keep Reading > Is the One or Two Day Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Better?

Exploring the Grand Canyon from Above: A Guide to Helicopter Tours

Many people inquire about helicopter tours of Grand Canyon. In this post we break down aerial tour options for Grand Canyon National Park. Flights start in Las Vegas, the South Rim of Grand Canyon and Page, Arizona. These trips run year-round. In addition, there are 1 to 7-day Grand Canyon rafting trips with helicopter rides in or out of the canyon to start or end your trip.

Keep Reading > Exploring the Grand Canyon from Above: A Guide to Helicopter Tours

Experts in wilderness travel, we have extensive connections within the industry through our 60+ combined years guiding most of the trips we offer including hundreds of rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

There is no fee for our service, ensuring the cost of your expedition is the same as booking directly with the outfitter  ( Learn more ).

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Black Canyon Trail

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9801 Hopkins Dr

San Diego, CA 92093

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Great place to hike or walk. Just make sure to bring extra water to hydrate especially summer time.

This is a trail system running through UCSD Ecological Park (aka Black Canyon Open Space) within the UCSD campus in La Jolla. The trail starts near the Hopkins Parking Structure. There is also another entrance near Genesee and Johns Hopkins Drive. Eucalyptus forest provides nice shade for easy walk. Some trails are closed off for habitat restoration but this isn't always marked well

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