By Liisa Sullivan
Whitewater rafting down the Colorado River on a multiday rafting trip offers a unique look at one of America's most popular natural attractions, Grand Canyon National Park. Rafters will learn to relax, laugh and take it all in. Because of its popularity, there are several outfitters that are authorized concessionaires allowed to take people on overnight or multiday trips.
Trips down the Mighty River
Multiday Grand Canyon rafting trips range from 3.5 to 16 days. Choosing the right trip is as easy as finding a whitewater rafting company with a well-trained staff.
Expedition Outfitters
One of the most popular multiday whitewater rafting trips is through Aramark Wilderness River Adventures. With more than 50 years of combined experience, they are leaders in the industry and offer unsurpassed service and safety for this type of expedition. Another outstanding company is Arizona River Runners. This company was founded in 1970 by two of the most experienced guides in the business. Bruce Winter and Bill Gloeckler have built one of the most-respected outfitters the park has. Lastly, OARS, founded by George Wendt in 1969, has been taking individuals down the Canyon in paddled vessels and motorized rafts for more than 40 years.
Trips Offer Experience of a Lifetime
No matter which company you choose, you'll enjoy good food, spectacular views and the experience of a lifetime. You'll be traveling the same route Gen. John Wesley Powell did in 1869. Powell was the first to successfully navigate this treacherous river in a party of small boats. Powell stands as the first to discover the Grand Canyon up close and personal in small vessels. You too can explore this section of the Grand Canyon, but in much more safety and comfort.
Consider Weather and Time of Year
The best time to plan this trip is between May and June. September also is an excellent month. The middle of the summer tends to get very hot in the Grand Canyon. Rain during this time also is another factor.
Beginning to End
Most trips start at Lee's Ferry at Lake Powell and depending on length of trip, end at the Phantom Ranch or lower down the river. How you get out of the canyon also depends on the length of the trip. If you end at the Phantom Ranch, you'll hike out about seven miles to the rim. The Bright Angel trail winds along the steepest part of the canyon. Only persons in the best of health and physical condition are recommended to do this hike. If you're not ready for a challenging hike, you can choose to take a helicopter for an additional fee or add on a few days and go to the lower parts of the river by Las Vegas where the hike out is less taxing.
Resources
About the Author:
Liisa Sullivan writes for several national and regional magazines; daily and weekly newspapers; and business-to-business newsletters. Before starting Write Away, Inc., she worked as an editor for a national medical publishing company where she managed a team of writers and did market research for new launches.
