Rafting
The National Park Service authorizes 16 concessionaires to run rafting trips through the canyon—you can view a full list at the park’s website (www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/river-concessioners.htm). Trips run from 3 to 18 days, depending on whether you opt for the upper canyon, lower canyon, or full canyon, and whether you ride in motorized or nonmotorized rafts. You can also experience a one-day rafting trip, either running a few rapids in the Grand Canyon West with the Hualapai tribe or floating through Glen Canyon near Page in northeast Arizona.
Arizona Raft Adventures. This outfitter organizes 6- to 16-day paddle/oar and motor trips through the upper, lower, or full canyon, for all skill levels. Trips depart April through October. 4050 E. Huntington Dr., Flagstaff, Arizona, 86004. 800/786–7238; 928/526–8200; azraft.com. From $2400.
Canyoneers. With a reputation for high quality and a roster of 4- to 14-day trips, Canyoneers is popular with those who want to do some hiking into side canyons as well. Motorized and oar trips are available mid-April through September. 7195 N. U.S. 89, Flagstaff, Arizona, 86004. 928/526–0924; 800/525–0924; canyoneers.com. From $1650.
Grand Canyon Expeditions. You can count on Grand Canyon Expeditions to take you down the Colorado River safely and in style: evening meals might include filet mignon, pork chops, or shrimp. The 8- or 9-day motorized and 14-day Dory trips cover all 277 miles of the river, and some trips focus on special interests like archaeology and photography. Round-trip transportation from Las Vegas is part of the package. Arizona. 435/644--2691; 800/544–2691; www.gcex.com. From $3050.
Wilderness River Adventures. One of the canyon's larger rafting outfitters, Wilderness River Adventures by Aramark runs a wide variety of trips from 3 to 14 days, oar or motorized, from April to September. Their most popular trip is the seven-day motorized trip. 2040 E. Frontage Rd., Page, Arizona, 86040. 928/645–3296; 800/992–8022; www.riveradventures.com. From $1630.
