Common Questions

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.

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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!

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. 

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!

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.

When people book their Grand Canyon rafting trip they are asked to join the GCRRA, which then leads to the question, "What is the Grand Canyon River Runners Association?"

This is a non-profit group working to protect public access to the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. They not only work to keep you, the public being able to raft through the Grand Canyon, but licensend outfitters operating as well.

The GCRRA also works to educate the public about the history and science of the Grand Canyon, to keep them informed about river access matters, and to promote the highest standards of resource responsibility and conservation for the Colorado River corridor within the Grand Canyon. 

Along with everything else they do, they protect your right to choose an environmentally responsible motorized or oar powered whitewater trip.

The association also donates a portion of their membership fees to organizations that support/protect conservation activities along the river, or those that offer opportunites for special populations to raft the Grand Canyon.

Please join GCRRA is simple and fast just click here. It's only $15 for an individual for a year, or $30 for a family for a year; or  for more information call Arizona River Runners at 1.800.477.7238.

When booking your white water vacation, you may be thinking, "Do I need cancellation or travel  insurance?"  Some people will need insurance, and at Arizona River Runners, we do recommend trip cancellation insurance.

The amount you invest in a travel insurance policy when booking a vacation, it is only a very small percentage of the overall trip cost, but is worth so much more. There are a number of benefits that will protect your safety, as well as all that money you have spent in order to make your dream vacation come true. By investing in a policy, you will save hundreds, possibly even thousands of dollars, if you were to experience a travel disruption such as lost baggage, flight changes, or even medical emergencies.

Trip Cancellation Insurance is highly recommended. Our cancellation policy can be reviewed here.

Here are a few companies that provide insurance. Arizona River Runners is not affiliated with any travel insurance company. For your reference see links below:

Travel Guard Insurance 800-826-1300

Access America Travel Insurance 800-284-8300

Travel Insured International Travel Insurance 800-243-3174

For more information on white water vacations and travel insurance, call Arizona River Runners at 1.800.477.72387.

Many people are curious about rafting in the Grand Canyon ... including what the food is like on a Colorado River trip. At Arizona River Runners we serve up some excellent grub! From grilled salmon and steaks to Dutch oven lasagna to Mexican Train Wreck Salad! 

This is what people had say about the food on their river trip....

"Food was first rate, good quality, fresh well prepared and tasty – I gained weight!

Are you kidding me? How could the food be better???!!!

I gained 4 pounds on the trip!

The food surpassed my expectations. THANK YOU FOR THE COFFEE!"

For more information on Colorado River trips call ARR at 1.800.477.RAFT!

You are about to launch on your Grand Canyon rafting trip, now is the time to take off your watch. As Stevie Winwood said so poetically "Time is a river, rolling into nowhere..."* So let it go, and just roll with the river, lose yourself in the moments - and there are many.  

People going on a Colorado River trip ask this a lot! So let me answer it for you...Yes, yes and yes!  Why you ask - let me count the ways!

1. You will get wet on the River.

2. It will help keep you dry.

3. It will help keep you warm.

4. It may rain, especially in July & August.

5. You will get wet.

Now that I've said my piece, let me explain in greater detail. It's not primarily for rain. The temperature of the water on a Grand Canyon rafting trip is about 55 degrees F. That is cold. If you are wearing cotton shorts, tee shirt, etc, these will get wet and take awhile to dry, now you're cold and uncomfortable (remember - you're still on the river going through rapids, just getting wetter). 

It does come in handy when there is rain. If you're caught in a rainstorm, rain gear is a great piece of clothing to have. It keeps you dry and happy! On the boats or in camp, rain gear is a must for Canyon River rafting. 

Get the 2-piece suit: jacket with hood and pants. You keep your rain gear in your day bag so you have access to it at all times.

More questions? Give Arizona River Runners a call at 1-800-477-7238!

We have found that the major factors to consider when choosing your whitewater trip include:

1. Length of Trip
2. Type of Raft
3. Cost
4. Weather
5. Water

Length of Trip

How long do you want to go white water rafting? How long is your vacation time? How much of the Canyon  do you want to raft and explore? These are all questions you must ask yourself. Then decide on how long you want your Colorado River adventure to be.

Arizona River Runners has a wide variety of trip lengths and type; from 3 - 13 days!

Type of Raft

We have two types of rafts - motor and oar powered. Our motorized rafts are custom made, with the new Evinrude E-TEC two-stroke engines that produce fewer reportable emissions than any other brand of engine. The raft is 35' and sits 14 comfortably and 2 crew members. Two boats travel together, so there are 28 rafters plus 4 crew on at motor trip. Average speed: 8 miles an hour.

Oar rafts are rowed by ARR guides, and travel about 4 miles an hour. The oar boats are 18' and have 4 rafters and a guide per boat. There are usually 6 oar rafts, 20 to 24 guest and 6 crew per whitewater trip.

Cost

Our Grand Canyon rafting packages are all inclusive. We have "bundled" transportation, food, camping gear and equipment to fit your budget. All you need to bring are your personal clothes, toiletries, camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure! In fact one rafter stated, "Before I took the trip I thought it was a little expensive, but after taking the trip I think it’s a bargain.” (Remember all your food, drinks, snacks and equipment are provided!)

Weather

Here is a great temperature chart for the floor of the Canyon. As you can see April and May are cooler (with the possibility of a late winter storm), late May-July are mainly sunny, August-September are sunny, but with a chance of a summer thunderstorm. Truthfully, the weather is seldom an issue for guests on their Colorado River adventures.

Water

The water in Grand Canyon is released from Glen Canyon Dam on Lake Powell, 15 miles above our Lee’s Ferry launch point.  The dam provides us with consistent water flow and cold water. Water is released from the dam at about 50 degrees, and rarely varies; the cold water provides a beach like cooling effect near the river for comfortable sleeping. We seldom worry about the water releases.  Current laws require for a yearly allocation of water to be released for the downstream states and this provides us good rafting water even in a drought year.

For more information on white water rafting call Arizona River Runners at 1-800-477-RAFT (7238)

It's that time of year - summer is almost upon us and that much-awaited vacation is yet to be booked! Here are a few simple steps to help you decide what to do...where to go...

First check with the members of your family and see what they would like to do...what they want to get out of the vacation. Do they want the bustle of a city? The quiet of the beach? What about experiencing nature - exploring, learning, laughing in an environment completely different?

Whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon lets families enjoy the great outdoors, reconnect and see sights unimaginable. Our  family vacations are just that - grand! 

Call Arizona River Runners and talk to Shirley or Pam or Judy, they will help you with all your vacation planning, from when you can go to length and type of rafting trip. Once you've made your decision, you will receive an information packet including, what we provide, what we suggest you bring, frequently asked questions, a packing list, logistics and other helpful information for your trip.

Now is the time to prepare for your family rafting trip. Let everyone share in the moments leading up to departure. Go shopping together, pack together, this builds the anticipation and excitement. Remember to set an "unplug" time - to turn off all electrical gadgets - cell phones, computers, iPods, i Pads, etc and do it together - maybe the night before you hit the river is an opportune time.

Your Grand Canyon family vacation finally is here - you're on the river! Our incredible guides want to make sure your river trip is all you dreamed of, they are here to answer questions, enlighten you, guide you on off river hikes, take a photo or two of you, create delicious meals...You'll camp on sandy beaches, swim in the aqua blue of the Little Colorado, explore off river petroglyphs and more. All rafters bond into one huge family, helping each other, laughing together, just being!

"River time" is an amazing time to relax, take in the vastness of the Canyon, enjoy the peaceful, flowing of the river and its nuances. Make memories that will last and last...of the Canyon and your family.

One of the most common questions we get asked is "What about the bathroom on a Colorado River trip?" There is nothing to worry about when you go on a Grand Canyon family vacation with Arizona River Runners. We provide you with a safe and clean place to go to the bathroom. The toilet is the first thing that is set up in camp and the last thing loaded back on the boat when its time to leave, and it's just like the one you have at home! There is even a special "key" for your privacy. (Our guides will give you the lowdown of everything to guarantee a fantastic Grand Canyon rafting trip.)

Since your whitewater trip is earlier in the season there are a few additional items of clothing you might want to pack for your river rafting adventure. Even though the weather is usually very enjoyable there is the slightest possibility of a storm moving in. If this happens, these additional items will come in handy. We strongly suggest you bring them, and then be glad when you don't have to use them!

• Polypropylene or Capilene long underwear (tops and bottoms) - you can get these pretty much anywhere, major retailers, camping and sporting goods stores.
• Wool hat - just an old ski cap will do, even just something to keep your head and ears warm.
• Wool or polypropylene socks - it is important to look after your feet on a Grand Canyon rafting trip.
• Gloves - wool gloves are fine, you might want to bring a pair of water resistant/waterproof gloves, again major retailers, sporting and camping stores should carry these for under $25.
• A pair of fleece pants is a good idea too, along with your fleece jacket/hoodie.

Layer your clothing - it can be cool in the mornings, but warm in the afternoons. Long underwear followed by light shirt, fleece pants, fleece sweater or warm jacket and good quality rain gear for the last layer. With the addition of the hat and gloves, you'll be right as rain!

If you have more questions about your whitewater trip, we do send out a packet with a complete packing list, etc. If you need additional information, please call Arizona River Runners at 1-800-477-7238, or email info@raftarizona.com.

Pack smart, pack light, pack for fun and adventure - and have great river rafting adventure!