Grand Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trips

A whitewater rafting trip through the Grand Canyon is the perfect getaway for a summer weekend. It’s a rewarding experience that you can’t get rafting anywhere else in the country, and a way to view the Grand Canyon through a different perspective.

Grand Canyon has gotten the reputation to be a rafting area for more experienced rafters and as an adventure that only the daring ever attempt. Now, it is safe for just about anyone with injuries occurring in the Grand Canyon having a rate similar to golf and bowling, and injuries occur less than one-tenth as frequent as those of football or basketball. Safety has continued to improve over time, with the development and use of lifejackets, improved raft design, a change in whitewater navigation techniques, medical training, enhanced communication technology and advanced medical services.

This doesn’t mean that you should not take any precautions while whitewater rafting. Even with the expertise and advanced technology, no rafting trip is ever completely risk free. All rafters should be active in insuring a safe experience for themselves and everyone else in the raft with them. In the Grand Canyon, sixty percent of injuries happen on shore, such as when camping or hiking, and forty percent occur on the river. Rapids and cold water are what cause any hazards in rafting, with over 160 rapids in the Grand Canyon, running rapids is the riskiest part of the experience.

Prepare for your Grand Canyon rafting trip by knowing exactly what to bring. The Colorado River is cold, so bring plenty of layers to ensure you stay warm during the entire trip. If you are camping overnight, bring warm clothes especially for the cold nights. Bring shoes that are comfortable, waterproof, and have a back to them so that they stay on during the rafting trip. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will help protect you from the beaming sun rays in the middle of the day. Bug spray for at night, to keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy a campfire and some relaxation, will be beneficial as well. Any types of medications you might require should be brought with, along with any other necessities. All of these items can be carried in a waterproof bag that will be on the raft, providing you with easy access. The rafting company will provide you with a lifejacket, oar and a helmet to keep you well protected and safe from the roaring river.

Your rafting guide is going to be the best source of information during the trip. Grand Canyon rafting guides are well experienced in rafting and in safety with an extensive background of rafting. While rafting, you are also getting a tour of the Grand Canyon, much different than what many people go on for a tour as you are on the river, in the canyon itself. If you are feeling uncomfortable or unsafe, your guide will be able to make sure you feel comfortable and have a great time.

Whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon is an experience that many people tend to miss out on. With the proper attire and information beforehand, it’s a trip that can be thoroughly enjoyed. As you plan your summer trip, consider a Grand Canyon whitewater rafting trip.