Discover the Grand Canyon's majestic beauty with a serene river rafting experience suitable for all ages. Glide along the tranquil waters of the Colorado River with the top-rated smooth-water float tours, offering a unique perspective of the canyon's grandeur. These tours combine the thrill of exploration with the relaxation of a leisurely float, making them a perfect family-friendly adventure.
The Grand Canyon, a natural wonder of the world, offers more than just breathtaking views from its rim. For those seeking an immersive experience, smooth-water rafting tours provide an opportunity to explore the canyon from within. These tours are ideal for families, first-time rafters, and anyone looking to enjoy the scenery without the intensity of white-water rapids.
Your adventure begins at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon or the nearby town of Tusayan, AZ. From there, you'll travel to Glen Canyon Dam, either by bus or airplane, depending on your chosen tour package. Upon arrival in Page, AZ, a two-mile tunnel awaits to escort you to the river's edge at the base of the dam.
Aboard a large, motorized rubber pontoon boat, you'll embark on a 15-mile journey down the Colorado River. The tour highlights include the iconic Horseshoe Bend, known for its stunning red sandstone cliffs and azure waters. Along the way, you'll stop at a secluded sandy beach for a guided walk to view ancient petroglyphs etched by Native Americans.
Your knowledgeable river guide will be available to answer questions about the river's history, geology, and the diverse wildlife inhabiting the canyon. The rafting trip itself lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with a lunch break to refuel before reaching the historic Lee's Ferry.
After the rafting segment, you'll board an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach for the return journey to the South Rim. The route takes you through the Navajo Indian Reservation and offers views of the Painted Desert. A recommended stop at the Cameron Trading Post allows for browsing of curios, souvenirs, and authentic Indian handicrafts.
Bus-rafting packages start at $170 per person, while airplane-rafting trips begin at $329 per person. For the best deals, it's recommended to book online, where discounts of up to 35 percent can be found. Online bookings are secure and often provide the best rates.
While the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors each year, few may realize that the Colorado River offers over 1,450 miles of navigable waters, with only a fraction being the tumultuous white-water rapids often associated with river rafting. According to the Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, the number of people who experience the canyon by river is less than 1% of the total annual visitors. This means that smooth-water rafting tours offer a unique and less crowded way to appreciate the canyon's splendor.
To truly appreciate the Grand Canyon's magnificence, one must venture below the rim and onto the river. Without the need to navigate Class 5 rapids, these smooth-water tours provide a relaxing yet adventurous way to experience one of the world's most incredible natural landscapes. Book your tour today and prepare for an unforgettable highlight of your vacation.
For more information on Grand Canyon tours and to book your river rafting adventure, visit the official Grand Canyon National Park website or check out the tours available at GrandCanyon.com.
