Quick Intro To Rafting the Grand Canyon

April 25, 2016

Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is definitely something everyone should experience. Although it is famously known for some of the biggest white water rapids in North America, surprisingly 91% of the trip is calm waters with only a few difficult spots, making this a relaxing trip with plenty of amazing views of the desert landscapes.

A view of a river through a cave in the desert.

Starting Point to Raft the Colorado

The starting point of the trip is located at the historic Lees Ferry. Here you will see the Kaibab limestone tops. From Lees Ferry it is 88 river miles to Phantom Ranch where the water levels are deeper than usual due to the rock formation arching up to the south which gives the Grand Canyon it’s depth.


Throughout the entire length of the river raft trip you will find yourself amazed by the beautiful rock formations and geology surrounding you. The waters have formed some of the most interesting mountains and structure in the Colorado River.


When river rafting there are some things you will want to wear on your journey. Here is a list we compiled to help you on your Colorado River raft expedition.

What To Wear When Rafting the Grand Canyon

Depending on the time of season, there are a few different things you will want to wear on the river. Keep in mind that it will not always be sunny and warm, for those colder days you will want to keep your clothing more synthetic; polypropylene, fleece, wool socks, etc.

  • On the sunnier days you want to wear a swimsuit, t-shirt, shorts, cotton is better for hot days as it will keep you cooler. Sunscreen in a must! Since sun reflects off water, you will have a higher chance of a sunburn.
  • You will want to wear some sort of protective shoes; chacos, water shoes, etc.
  • Sunglasses to protect your eyes, you’ll want to invest in chums to keep them attached to you.
  • Be sure to pack an extra set of clothes as well in case you get extremely wet, no one wants to be wet all day long.

Clearly that’s just the tip of the iceberg as far as rafting the Grand Canyon goes, but we are happy to fill you in on the rest. There are memories to be made rafting the Colorado River that you will take with you for the rest of your life.

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