Arizona River Runners

Many people call in and ask about the weather in the Grand Canyon during June or July (our most popular months). "It's hot," I tell them, "It's in the hundreds during the day time."

But why do people rarely, if ever, complain about the heat? Well first because its a dry heat unlike most other states in the U.S. Secondly, the water stays around 50-55 degrees year round keeping the air around it just a little cooler. But mostly it has to do with what's happening all around you; The white water, the guides, the new friends, the walls and the hikes all contribute to keeping your mind off the heat. Once you start to see and enjoy the elements around you, a mild discomfort is not going to ruin your mood. All that being said here are a few ways to keep cool on the Colorado River. 

1. Bandana, hat and light long-sleeve shirt. All three of these items are vital in keeping your body cool. Use water to wet down your hat and/or bandana and cool your head and neck. You'll also want to keep some sun off of your arms.

2. Jump right in! Get in the water. It'll be cold at first, but I can promise you it will feel amazing and wake up your whole body.

3. Sit up front. On a hot day theres nothing better than the thrill of crashing into a white water wave and the rush of cold water. There is no better spot on the boat than the front if you want to really get hit. Plus, you'll get little splashes and sprays throughout the day. 

4. Side Hikes! Many, if not most of the hikes in the Grand Canyon have some sort of water feature to them. If you are feeling a little drowsy from the sun, get your blood pumping by hiking up to a water fall or side river and dunk your head, or heck, your whole body in!

5. Pre-Hydrate so you don't have to Re-Hydrate! You may not feel like drinking water sometimes, but you should drink it anyway. Keep your body from overheating by keeping the water flowing and filling up that eternal reservoir. There's debate on whether you should drink warm or cold water, but ultimately what's most important is that your body is hydrated and happy. Remember, one of the first signs of dehydration is grumpiness. So, if you feel like everyone is being annoying (maybe they are), drink some of that heavenly life giving H20!

Check out our website for more information about our trips and weather.

The following is what one of our passengers wrote this April after getting off the water and back to the internet. Thanks Louie for all your kind words, we hope to see you here again.

Kenny G. is in the right place. His leadership and trip management were extraordinary. I suspect there was way more to his job and his skill than any of us realized. His ability to put us on trails and campsites alone where there should have been many more people was a testament to his ability to provide the best possible experience for his guests. He is an impressive boatman, and I was glad to have the opportunity to have this experience with him.

David Sherman was my medic. He tended to my wounds and helped me enjoy the most painful part of the trip. He showed confidence and empathy. In addition, he demonstrated his skills as both a boatman and guide on many different occasions during our trip. Conversations with David were varied and interesting and always a pleasure.

Thea Lander was my moral support. I could count on her to bolster my moral when I felt that I was becoming a "high maintenance" guest. She put me straight. She exhibited genuine concern and good humor not to mention great boatman skills. She was the driving force behind the fantastic cuisine, and made my wife feel comfortable. Her stories in the morning before launch were great, just icing on an already delicious cake. 

Sean Futch always seemed to be where he was needed the most. Whenever I seemed to feel that I'd had enough of this or that, I would turn around and there he was. Quietly following and saying "I still have room in my pack for some of that stuff". He probably didn't know how much I appreciated his help. He hopes to have his own boat when I come back for another go...I sure hope he does. 

As I have said before, I would be honored to call any of these boatmen friends, and I am honored to have gone on a trip with them. The only down side is that now I have been spoiled by the best. I cannot imagine a better group of guides, and a trip I will never forget.

Back for its FOURTH year! Pack Quickly, Save Biggly is here to help you take the trip of a lifetime. At Arizona River Runners we occasionally like to offer trip deals - particularly last minute deals (typically within 60 days). So If you like saving money (everyone)  and have some flexibility with your vacation plans (only some), email us at specials@raftarizona.com with: 

1. Length of trip you prefer (3,6,7,8 or 13 Day Trip)

2. What time of year your prefer

3. Number of spaces required

We will promptly get back to you and send, deals fitting your specific criteria as they develop. For more up to date information on our company and trip specials, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. 

Current Deals:

$800 off May 27th 8-day "Full Canyon" Trip. Now $1795

$250 off June 12th 3-day "Escape" Now $973

$500 off June 23rd 6-day "Heart of the Canyon" Trip. Now $1895

Arizona River Runners Photo Workshop September 1-7 2013: Raft the Grand Canyon on a 7-day trip with acclaimed travel photographer Kerrick James (Arizona Highways, Outdoor Photographer). Kerrick teaches valuable principles on how to capture spectacular photos. This adventure is for the occasional point and shoot photographer all the way to the advanced aspiring travel photographer NOTE: No additional charge for the workshop

 www.raftarizona.com

I've been reading through questionnaires and reviews from past passengers this week. One thing that I see over and over again are comments like,  "The guides made this trip better than our best expectations," or  "Thanks (guide name) for supporting me and my family through every aspect of the trip." People seem to think ARR Guides consistently go the extra mile to make sure every passenger is engaged and experiencing the trip of a lifetime.

I have people who call, email or Facebook me all the time asking if a certain guide is running the river this year. Not only are our passengers transformed by the canyon, but they are transformed by these sage adventurers' positive attitude and passion for the Grand Canyon. If you've been impacted by one of our guides in one way or another, post a picture, video, or comment on our Facebook and share it with your friends. I'll get the ball rolling below, but these are just a handful of ARR's boatmen/women. Happy Weekend Everyone!

I am currently reading a book called “THE STORY THAT STANDS LIKE A DAM” by Russell Martin. It’s the story of the Glen Canyon Dam, which is the dam that holds Lake Powell (reservoir). In this book there's  conflict between those who chose to reclaim the mighty Colorado River to promote western development and those who wanted to preserve the flow in it’s natural state. The preservationists desired to see and enjoy the Colorado River and it’s canyons in it’s purest form. An early Colorado River voyager and Midwestern industrialist, Julius Stone wrote “Here where the world is shut out, the spirit of the wilderness still abides and welcomes one into the full freedom and magic of the night and morning; uplifting and swaying the beholder with a sense of being that is delightful beyond compare.” He insisted that the river should not be used for mere profit, but that it had value in its ability to instill awe.

The dam was built and today provides water, power, and recreation for millions of people. Though there is still controversy, outfitters and passengers proclaim that the Grand Canyon has the same effect that Stone wrote about years ago. It’s hard for me to describe the change that I’ve seen in families and friends as they fulfill their long-standing bucket list trip. They come on a 3-13 day rafting vacation, sometimes nervous about camping or white water and most certainly unprepared for the transformation into freer, brighter, tanner (sometimes less kempt) river folk. They reluctantly leave and return to the “rim world” to find that they have a fresh demeanor; because they lived, hiked, rested, socialized (ate amazing food) and conquered the famous Grand Canyon.

www.raftarizona.com

www.facebook.com/ArizonaRiverRunners

www.twitter.com/RaftArizona

Earlier today American Rivers, a leading organization working to protect and restore the nation’s rivers and streams released a report on the country’s top ten most endangered rivers. These lists are used to shed light on the issues facing our nations rivers and cause the people and their government to take the actions necessary to protect these vital water sources.

The top river on American River’s 2013 list is none other than the Colorado River. This essential river takes its path through seven different states and covers 1,400 miles. 36 million people and 15 percent of U.S. crops rely on the water coming from the Colorado, but due to allocation issues and a long-standing drought, it is at serious risk.

The Bureau of Reclamation released a report in January that suggests the Colorado River and its dependents (agriculture, recreation, adjacent populations, local plant and animal species, power) are reaching a demand imbalance. Currently, due to damming, draining and diverting the main stem barely, if ever, reaches the Gulf of California. Many Mexican agricultural communities are losing their ability to produce crop and therefore income for their families.

For thirty years Arizona River Runners has guided thousands of people from all over the world on the Colorado River. For many it is a consecrated place where family and nature converge; or a place to escape a loud and busy life.  We at ARR hope that people are transformed by the river and invest in protecting the Colorado from depletion, so that future generations can experience, utilize and enjoy this wonderful source.

For more information on how to take action and protect the Colorado visit American Rivers Website. http://www.americanrivers.org/

Kober, A. “Announcing America’s Most Endangered Rivers Of 2013.” The River Blog. American Rivers. April 17, 2013. http://guides.boisestate.edu/content.php?pid=19556&sid=843732. April 17, 2013

O’Connor, M. “The Colorado Tops the List of the Ten Most Endangered Rivers.” Outside Online. Outside. April 16, 2013. http://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/adventure-ethics/Colorado-River-Tops-10-Most-Endangered-List.html?page=all. April 17, 2013

See it as it is, Leave it as it was! One of the great phrases you might hear on the Colorado River. See and enjoy the Grand Canyon how it is, but preserve it for future generations of explorers, families, vacationers, nature lovers, non-nature lovers or whoever may want to visit the Mighty Colorado River. This philosophy is  something that we, at Arizona River Runners, are compelled to teach to all of our river passengers. But there are some things you can take with you from the Grand Canyon.

Photos and Videos are a great way to take something home with you. After you get off of your trip, I suggest that you ease back into the world of technology, but after you have time to properly acclimate to the "Rim World", upload your photos or videos to the web and share with your friends. Here are a few suggestions when planning your trip.

1. Go-Pro's are perfect for our trips. Waterproof. Light and small. HD video or photo. These cameras can capture so much of the action while protecting the camera from damage. They are great to strap on to your head for a hike or strap to another area on the boat to capture your white water rafting reactions. They can even go under water (60m) to take pictures of the Humpback Chub fish located near the Little Colorado confluence.

2. Sometimes you need your nice camera. Nabbing the perfect shot of the Grand Canyon's vastness and beauty can be arduous at times. Every so often, maybe at camp before everyone wakes up or on a late day hike, you find the perfect angle and light. It's at these times that you'll want a camera with a quality lens and resolution. The down side to these cameras is their fragility. If you do decide to bring a camera that packs a little more punch consider buying a camera case, which allows you to take pictures through a waterproof bag. These range from $30-$200 depending on camera and level of protection. Arizona River Runners also provides a small personal dry bag for day use items. No matter how you do it, be sure to protect your cameras. 

3. Disposables. Waterproof and safe, every group should have a couple of these. Sometimes it may not be feasible to get to your nice camera, so having a disposable camera on hand to shoot those "all of a sudden" or spontaneous moments will prove to be worth the investment. Plus, it's a great way to get the trip kids to engage with nature and observe the science and art of this Natural Wonder of the World. 

4. Share your pictures with the other passengers. When you reserve your spot on a trip, you are asked to start a MyModule account which will link you up with the other passengers on the trip. This so you can keep in touch and have one place where you all can upload your river trip photos. 

So, whether you are currently booked with Arizona River Runners or you are pondering whether or not a Grand Canyon river trip is in the cards this year. Remember to consider what and how you might be capturing this season.

We are always uploading new images, videos, and articles to our Facebook and Twitter so keep connected!

Since 2004, Facebook, with its billion or so active members, has brought people together through life updates, picture and event sharing, messaging, friend finding and many other features. It has proved to be an indispensable tool in reconnecting long lost chums.  It helps us keep up to date on the happenings of our family and friends, but there comes a point when connecting online is just not enough. 

Years ago, I was working on a Grand Canyon rafting trip with Arizona River Runners and the group we had were all old college buddies. Twenty-five or so dentists, contractors, business owners, retirees, coming together and hanging out with their old friends, many of which hadn't seen each other in 30 years. It was highly entertaining, watching these adults transform their dynamic to become like jovial and unburdened college kids. They had mixers every night on the beach, reminiscing about when, "so-and-so thought it would be an great idea to..."  They sang their fight song after each major rapid. For 7 days they adventured through the heart of the Grand Canyon; taking on the whitewater, gaining a new appreciation for nature and seamlessly enjoying each other's company. This was the trip of a lifetime for them.

I can only imagine the new batch of stories they had when they returned home.  With all the social media connections we have with each other, ARR large group trips would be all that much easier to plan, execute, and archive. For years we have accommodated large groups and we love being a conduit for unforgettable reunions. So check out our trips and call us to start planning your 3-13 day friends and family river trip.

1-800-477-7238

www.raftarizona.com

www.facebook.com/ArizonaRiverRunners

It would be a very long blog if I told you every detail about every item needed for your Colorado River Whitewater trip. So, instead I'll just give you a couple of things to take away that I like to tell every passenger.

SHOES. I can't tell you how embarrassing it was the first (and only) time my sandals blew out (broke). I was wearing leather, trendy (in the early 2000's) flip flops. I was working as a crew member and enjoyed a little jump off a cliff into the deep Colorado River. As soon as I splashed into the water I knew that my troubles with my, slippery when wet, leather flips just got worse. I swam to the shore and put on my old converse all-stars (also a mistake) for the remainder of the trip. I was tan all over except for my awesome Chuck Taylor tan line. I like to pack flips that are made for the river; form fitting, rubber sole and webbing straps. Chaco and Keen are a couple of favorite brands and if you go to their websites you'll want to own a pair, but also only want to hang out with people who own them too.  Which brings me to the next fun footwear fact. When choosing shoes to take with you for your hikes in the canyon, remember that many hikes have a water feature to it. So, the best shoe is one that is light, sturdy, supportive and water friendly. 

LOOK LIKE A RIVER RAT. If you really want to fit in with the guides, one trick is to bring along an old, button down, light color, light material, long sleeve shirt. This is like the Swiss army knife of the River Rafting Fashion World (very exclusive). It's great to wear when its cold or sunny. Instead of re-applying sunscreen all the time to your arms, just roll down your sleeves. Or fellas if you want to look real good with your new river tan, roll up your sleeves (sun's out gun's out). You can even dunk it in the chilly water and use it as a neck cooler on a hot day. 

SUNSCREEN PLEASE. This is a must. But instead of applying it to your forehead, where it can run down into your eyes, wear a hat.

HATS. Love 'em, wear em'.

SUNGLASSES AND CHUMS. "Look at that California Condor flying above!"

Situation A: If "'Aw the Sun is too bright I can't see!"  Then "I need to get some polarized sunglasses"

Situation B: If "When I looked up to see the bird, my $300 Wayfarers fell into the deep Colorado River" Then "I need to get some Chums or as the people in the south call them, Croakies" (Preferably floating ones.)

FLEECE. My final tip is the fleece. Utilized and stylish, the fleece is great to wear under your rain gear on a splashy morning or around the camp party at night. I enjoy the fleece vest because of it's multiple layering options. 

If you'd like to ask any further questions or ask me about my thoughts on "river shorty shorts", you can ask on our Facebook, Twitter@RaftArizona, or call 1-800-477-7238

Here's a link to the complete packing list. http://www.raftarizona.com/more-trip-info/what-to-bring/

Here's the link to book your trip https://reservations.raftarizona.com/book/

This is Scott wearing all the right stuff. 

One of the best Grand Canyon trips I've ever experienced was during a very rainy monsoon season.  I was working as a crew member on this specific trip.  It was day 3 or so into a 6 day trip, when the threatening clouds turned into buckets of rain. Water blasted our faces by the strong up river wind. It got to the point where we needed to pull over and find shelter. We found a beach with a small rock cropping and we guided the passengers up a 50 yard path to a place where the stone canopied over a clearing, protecting the passangers from the rain and the sideways wind. The crew rushed back to the boats to keep them secure. As we huddled in the motor well of the raft, the rain turned to hail.  We could hear cheers and storm taunting like, "Is that all you got?" coming from the rock. Then, as the storm dissipated and the sky gave small patches of light, it became almost silent with the occasional roar of thunder shooting through the side canyons. Everything was calm and beautiful. The once dry canyon walls turned into waterfalls.

The crew and I walked back to the rock and found that the chatting and laughing passengers, had somehow found their six packs (of soda [maybe]). They looked at us and one of the more outgoing passengers joked, "Where have you guys been!?" We all gathered around that rock for the next hour, celebrating our victory over the storm. For some of the passengers it was their first time being out in the elements. The experience was not only invigorating for them, but weathering the storm fused the group together for the rest of the trip. 

Many times on a Grand Canyon river trip, the scenery although amazing and forever imprinted in your mind, takes a backseat to the time spent with fellow passengers. So go with your friends, spend some uninterrupted time with your family, or even go independently.  No matter what kind of group you go with, you are certain to leave with new buddies and new memories of your patchwork group of Colorado River adventurers. Share your own story on our Facebook. www.facebook.com/arizonariverrunnersor TripAdvisor

There's nothing better than getting some mid-week good news. Outside Magazine did a great article listing "50 Great Family Adventures" and that's right, Arizona River Runners got on the list for our 6-Day motor trip down "The Heart" of the Grand Canyon. We feel extremely honored to be featured on this list with all the other great companies. Avital Andrews, the writer, did a great job of inspiring parents to show their kids the world we all live in and enjoy. I've posted the link below if you'd like to take a look. It's also worth your time to explore some of the other trips listed. They look pretty interesting and creative.

http://bit.ly/YYwq9

Check out of our trip dates for this year at www.raftarizona.com or follow us on twitter @RaftArizona

Hello world, my name is Kyle, and I just started working at the Phoenix office of Arizona River Runners, though I've been taking trips down the Colorado River with ARR since I was a young kid. Sometimes I would go with my family, sometimes with my friends and later in my life I began working on the trips as a Swamper (assistant guide). Many times I've gotten the question, "what is there to do on a raft all day?".  First, you need to know that Arizona River Runners provides trips with thrilling whitewater and accesible hikes that lead you through canyons that might be expected in the Amazon, but are really just a couple miles off the river. These things are happening all the time down there, but there will be times when you're sitting on our 35ft S-Rig raft in the middle of mile deep canyon with flat water all around. Have no fear! Our guides are not only extremely knowledgable in geology, anthropology, botany and southwestern history, but they are also natural born (or maybe they figured it out) entertainers.

Our charming guides are hard at work to keep you safe and well fed, as well as sharing with you captivating anecdotes of daring adventurers and even the occasional cheesy dad joke (sympathy laughs recommended). If you have never heard the stories of John Wesley Powell or the adventures of a wild and wonderful eighty year old woman who wore leopard print and a helmet as she led people through the whitewater, then you're in for a trip! The Colorado River has so many nuances and history behind its grandeur that you can miss it, if not for our experienced and wise Grand Canyon guides to enlighten you on what makes the Grand Canyon so grand.

Post your own guide stories on our Facebook wall at www.facebook.com/ArizonaRiverRunners

Thinking about what to do this summer? Wanting some adventure? What about a Grand Canyon rafting trip? Not sure? Why not? Are these some of the things holding you back...

Out of shape, sun sensitivity, can't swim, no time, need a critter sitter, never pitched a tent before, never camped before, traveling solo, it's expensive? I sunburn easily, my wife won't - go my husband won't go, I don't like cold water, physical challenges/limitations, food restrictions, allergic to nuts, lactose intolerant. I'm too old, the kids won't want to come, can't sleep without my own pillow, scared of heights…

These are a few minor stumbling blocks that should not keep you from a river rafting adventure in the Grand Canyon. If you have a concern or questions... contact us at Arizona River Runners and we can reveiw your particular situation and help you to decide if your dreams of rafting in the Grand Canyon can still come true. Don't give up your "bucket list" if you don't have to. A lot of things are easily solved. We can work together to find the perfect Colorado River trip for you. Many people who thought they couldn't, or shouldn't raft the Grand Canyon have had their wish come true with Arizona River Runners. Call us - don't miss out - together we can make your dream come true too!

Arizona River Runners 1-800-477-7238, for your white water rafting adventure!

The Grand Canyon radiates both exhilaration and tranquility. Truly it is one of the most incredible geological wonders on earth. While white water rafting through the Canyon, you get the most breath-taking views. The Grand Canyon is home to some of the biggest white water in North America and exclusive off river hikes and landscapes. A river rafting trip is the only way to explore some of these amazing waterfalls, hikes, cool pools,  grottos and scenic wonders.

Arizona River Runners offers white water rafting trips to those who seek adventure in the heart of nature, who dream to experience this unparalleled thrill. We combine incredible Grand Canyon river trips with off river excursions, giving rafters time for exploring hidden gems within the Canyon.

Let the Grand Canyon captivate you with its beauty, history, flora and fauna. Let Arizona River Runners take you on a white water rafting trip that will enthrall you with excitement and serentiy!

Call 1.800.477.7238 for your Grand Canyon river trip!

Never camped before? Not sure if it's your "cup of tea?" Here are a few thoughts from our 2012 rafters...you might just change your mind!

"Awesome experience, I don’t camp and was thrilled our guide suggested open air sleeping on cots. To stare up at the starry sky surrounded by the Canyon and rapids was magical!

My first camping experience and the company did an excellent job educating and providing an exceptional experience! 10+++!!!

Loved it! Thanks for the great memories! Would do it again in a heartbeat!

I tell everyone how great it was and that they should try to do it someday!

It was a fantastic trip! I wouldn't change a thing!

Wonderful trip! Arizona River Runners is great!

The feeling of accomplishment for two city girls when all was said and done – a truly life changing experience!"

To book your camping trip white water rafting through the Grand Canyon, call Arizona River Runners, we have the cot, tent, food, raft...everything for you!

Arizona River Runners 1.800.477.7238.

Thinking about taking a Grand Canyon raft trip? No sure who to book with? Here are a few quotes from our rafters last season...

"Trip hikes were great and challenging, food and accommodations from Arizona River Runners were excellent! I could go on and on….

The whole experience is amazing!

Everyone was excellent, can’t be beat!

Every part of the trip was wonderful!

Thank you all for a great trip – big thanks to Frank, our guide, he was awesome!

We’ll be back!

This has been the grandest adventure of my life!

It was the best trip ever!

Great Guides!

Sleeping under the stars and being without technology – Awesome & Refreshing!

WE LOVED IT!!!"

Don't wait, call Arizona River Runners for your Grand Canyon rafting trip! 1.800.477.7238

Searching for an exciting family Colorado River rafting trip? You have come to the right place. Arizona River Runners is your family white water rafting expert in Arizona. 

Our family rafting trips are exhilarating, safe, and our experienced, professional, caring guides will ensure you have the time of your life!

If you are planning some quality family time, then what better place than Arizona River Runners to take your family on a white water vacation adventure they will never forget?  White water rafting through the Grand Canyon with your entire family is the best! Contact Arizona River Runners for your 2013 family rafting trip everyone will love!

Arizona River Runners 1.800.477.RAFT, that's 1.800.477.7238.

You need a vacation, want to get away! You've worked hard, you deserve it. Now it's time to plan your R & R. Spoil yourself in a grand way - take a white water rafting trip through the Grand Canyon.

Go where there are no phones, no computers, just the rushing waters of the Colorado River, the excitment of the rapids, delicious food, making new friends.

Take a camping trip along the bank of the Mighty Colorado. Sleep under a blanket of stars, wake to the freshest breakfast. See pictographs of ancient tribes, swim in the turqoise blue waters of the Little Colorado.  Emmerse yourself in this incomparable experience.

Grand Canyon rafting tours are for those who love adventure, seek thrills, and respect nature. On white water rafting trips you will experience all the Canyon and River have to offer. The most incredible whitewater in North America, up to Class X rapids!

Arizona River Runners has the white water rafting trip for you, from 3 to 13 days, you can go with the flow and experience this river rafting adventure. The time is now, take a break, get away!

Let the Grand Canyon enchant you; spoil yourself and your senses with a white water rafting trip. Call Arizona River Runners today - 1-800-477- RAFT (7238).

The Grand Canyon is a wonderous and beautiful place...truly yours to discover! Call Arizona River Runners for your Grand Canyon adventures! 1.800.477.7238

"I realize now that the Grand Canyon is really a Canyon of thousands of smaller canyons. These canyons were stunning!"

Bret
Henderson, NV
June 3 - 9, 2012
7 Day Grand Canyon Adventures with Arizona River Runners