Grand Canyon River Rafting Trips
Embark on a Grand Canyon white water river rafting trip and discover why thousands of adventurers each year call it "the trip of a lifetime." Exploring this natural wonder by floating down the Colorado River offers a truly unique perspective, from adrenaline-pumping rapids to serene hidden grottoes and majestic canyon walls.
Choose Your Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure
One-Day Grand Canyon Rafting Trips
Perfect for travelers short on time, one-day white water rafting tours operate exclusively through the Hualapai Tribe on the West Rim. These trips launch from Peach Springs, Arizona, and offer a full day of Class III rapids, scenic canyon views, and cultural experiences.
- Launch point: Diamond Creek Road (West Rim)
- Includes optional helicopter exit from the river
- Operated by Hualapai River Runners
- No backcountry hiking required
Multi-Day Grand Canyon Rafting Expeditions
For a more immersive canyon journey, choose a multi-day rafting trip ranging from 3 to 18 days. These trips explore the full stretch of the Grand Canyon, with stops for side hikes, waterfalls, ancient rock art, and campfires under the stars. Rafting outfitters provide all food, gear, and guides.
- Trips typically run April through October
- Popular side hikes: Deer Creek Falls, Havasu Creek, Elves Chasm
- Choice of raft types: motorized (faster) or oar/paddle-powered (more intimate, slower)
- Camping on remote beaches under the stars
- All-inclusive: meals, dry bags, tents, and gear included
Trip Routes & Logistics
Upper Canyon Rafting Trips (Lee’s Ferry to Phantom Ranch)
Most trips begin at Lee’s Ferry, the official launch site for all Grand Canyon river trips. Upper Canyon routes typically run for 3–6 days and end with a hike out via the Bright Angel Trail.
- Launch site: Lee’s Ferry (near Page, AZ)
- End point: Phantom Ranch or river mile 89
- Shuttle options: from Flagstaff, South Rim, or Las Vegas
- Requires hike out (9.5 miles via Bright Angel Trail)
Lower Canyon Rafting Trips (Phantom Ranch to Diamond Creek or Lake Mead)
Lower Canyon trips require a steep hike into the Canyon to meet your raft at Phantom Ranch. These trips cover remote inner canyon sections with big whitewater and last 5–10 days.
- Start with hike in via Bright Angel Trail (9.5 miles down)
- End at Diamond Creek or Lake Mead
- Includes Lava Falls Rapid (Class IV–V)
- Best for fit hikers or return rafters
Full Grand Canyon Rafting Trips (Lee’s Ferry to Diamond Creek or Lake Mead)
This complete canyon journey spans 226 river miles and includes every scenic highlight, waterfall, rapid, and side canyon along the way. Ideal for those with 8–18 days to spare.
- Duration: 8–18 days depending on raft type
- Motorized rafts complete faster trips (7–8 days)
- Paddle/oar trips last 12–18 days (more immersive)
- Best for photographers, adventurers, and nature lovers
How to Book a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip
Due to high demand and limited outfitter permits, most multi-day rafting trips sell out 12–18 months in advance. Begin planning early — especially if you want a specific launch date, raft type, or group size.
Licensed Grand Canyon Rafting Outfitters
Only 15 outfitters are authorized by the National Park Service to run trips on the Colorado River through Grand Canyon National Park. Popular companies include:
- OARS
- Western River Expeditions
- Arizona Raft Adventures
- Grand Canyon Expeditions
- Hatch River Expeditions
How to Choose the Right Grand Canyon Rafting Trip
Here are factors to consider when choosing your adventure:
- Time Available: 1-day (West Rim), 3–6 day (Upper), 8–18 day (Full Canyon)
- Fitness Level: Hike-in/hike-out options require good physical condition
- Rafting Style: Motorized (faster, more stable), Oar/Paddle (slower, quieter)
- Budget: Trips range from ~$450 (1-day) to $3,500–$6,500 (multi-day)
- Group Type: Some outfitters offer family-focused or solo-traveler-friendly departures
Rafting Season & Weather
The main rafting season runs from April to October. Here's what to expect:
- Spring (Apr–May): Cooler temps, higher water flows
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and sunny, water levels lower, afternoon monsoons
- Fall (Sep–Oct): Milder temperatures, colorful sunsets
What to Pack for a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip
Outfitters provide dry bags and gear, but here's what you should bring:
- Quick-dry clothing + bathing suit
- Sun hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Secure sandals or water shoes
- Headlamp, toiletries, and medications
- Lightweight fleece for cool evenings
- Optional: waterproof phone case, GoPro, small dry day pack
Safety & Regulations
- All trips include professional guides certified in swift-water rescue & wilderness medicine
- Life jackets are mandatory and provided
- Alcohol policies vary by outfitter
- Cell service is nonexistent in the canyon — disconnect and enjoy!
Ready to experience the Grand Canyon in the most immersive, awe-inspiring way possible? Book your river rafting trip today and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime on the mighty Colorado River.
RECOMMENDED GRAND CANYON RIVER RAFTING GUIDES
Western River Expeditions
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Grand Canyon Expeditions
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Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Grand Canyon Rafting
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Advantage Grand Canyon
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