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Average rating 5.0 / 5.0 (18 votes)
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Add this experience to your wishlist Rafting the Grand Canyon

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Running the Colorado River through Grand Canyon is a sublime experience. The enormity of the canyon is such that often one cannot even see the rim. As the river descends through geologic history boaters become familiar with the rock layers representing epochs of the past. This journey through time climaxes in the inner gorge, where red granite intrudes the two billion year old Vishnu schist.

Long pools of placid flat-water are interspersed with giant wave trains and powerful hydraulics that dwarf even an 18 foot raft. These high volume rapids frequently flip paddle and even oar rafts, but not to worry: the high volume and low gradient of the Colorado make it a fairly safe river to swim.

Any veteran of Grand Canyon will tell you that the best part of a Colorado River trip is the hiking. Slot canyons beckon around every bend, many of which hide springs, fern grottoes, and travertine waterfalls. The bathtub warm side creeks are a delightful contrast to the super-chilled river water that comes out of the bottom of Glen Canyon dam.

In addition to the natural history of the Canyon there is a rich human history as well; spanning from the mysterious Anasazi cliff dwellers to eighteenth century explorers and nineteenth century thrill-seekers who ran the river before us. Following along with the written record about Grand Canyon adds a great deal to a river trip there.

5 / 5 Review by expert member Hata Hill's photo Hata Hill


‘Ultimate Trip’

The Grand Canyon: this is the ultimate trip. Most trips are 14-18 days through this spectacular canyon that is know to change lives. The rapids are huge ... Read more »

5 / 5 Review by expert member Zach Collier's photo Zach Collier


‘Must do at least once in your life’

If you really want to see the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, take a rafting trip. See the canyon from the river is absolutely the best way to go. You get the best ... Read more »

5 / 5 Review by expert member Ryan Hutchings's photo Ryan Hutchings


‘Rafting the Grand Canyon’

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular destinations in the world. The best way to experience the absolute grandeur and thrill is to raft through the ... Read more »

5 / 5 Review by expert member Ryan Hutchings's photo Ryan Hutchings

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Rafting the Grand Canyon
 Photo by flickr user MolallaRiverCowboy

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