Rafting the Grand Canyon

See more Rafting. See best of Grand Canyon in United States.

‘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 Grand Canyon. By rafting through the canyon, you experience the powerful Colorado River carving through the deep canyon walls, see the wildlife and echo system as it exists below the canyon walls, and view waterfalls, side canyons and secret pools only accessible from the river. Rafting trips through the Grand Canyon typical last anywhere from 3-10 days, depending on the outfitter and package. The season runs from April-September. The best time to take a trip is during the spring or fall, because the weather is not as hot, and you avoid the peak tourism season.

When John Wesley Powell first ran the Grand Canyon in 1869, few realized the rapids that caused him such consternation would make it one of the world's top whitewater runs a scant century later. Rapids such as Crystal and Lava Falls are topped only by the canyon's beauty as the Colorado River carves its way through time. To do the whole 280 miles takes anywhere from 10 to 23 days, depending on if you have motor support. And if you go with an outfitter, you're guaranteed gourmet fare that is a far cry from the salted pork and flour rations of Powell's rafting days. OARS (Grand Canyon), (800) 346-6277

Oars Grand Canyon

5 / 5 Review by expert member Ryan Hutchings

‘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 of both worlds- all the Grand Canyon scenery along with whitewater fun.

The rapids and whitewater in the Grand Canyon are different from the typical "whitewater rapids" you get on other rivers. The Colorado River in the Grand Canyon is a huge volume river, and the rapids are more like big waves you see in the ocean. You are usually on huge pontoon rafts that hold like 15-20 people, with a motor on the back. You aren't in a small paddle boat with an oar in hand. You are sitting atop a huge raft as it jumps over massive swells in the river. A whole new experience.

Another great perk of a Grand Canyon rafting trip is that you get to take small hikes into secluded side canyons and waterfalls...places you would never see on your own. I absolutely recommend grand canyon rafting!

Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

5 / 5 Review by expert member Ryan Hutchings

‘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 due to the large volume of water.

5 / 5 Review by expert member Zach Collier