week long river rafting trips

Best Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Multi-day trips are a great way to see locations and special destinations that you could not otherwise see if you were not on the river. Multi-day trips usually book in advance and have limited space, so check these trips out and reserve your spot.

Multi-Day rafting trips can range anywhere from 2 – 15 days long, camping on the river, spanning long distances and remote destinations.

Multi-day rafting trips use paddle boats, oar boats and or motorized boats (and any combination of these) depending on the destination and length of the trip. Usually these trips are all-inclusive with the trip, gear, food, camping and limited transportation all part of the packaged price.

Alaska and Canada Massive Landscapes, Epic Journeys

Rocky Mountains Middle Fork, Arkansas River & More

Desert Southwest Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon & More

Oregon's Rogue River Lodge to Lodge 4 Day

Chile or Costa Rica Change of Hemisphere

Multi-Day Rafting Destinations

Grand canyon, rocky mountains, glacier national park, alaska & canada, british columbia, northwest territories, west virginia, latin america.

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The 11 Best Wild and Scenic River Trips in America

Some of the best wilderness in the country has no trail at all. grab a paddle and get ready for the ultimate summer on the water with these 11 trips down national wild and scenic rivers..

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Congress established National Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1968. The designation applies to waterways that “possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values,” and stipulates that they “be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” Today, there are 12,347 protected miles on 208 rivers in 40 states. Explore your aquatic heritage, starting with these 11 floats, which range from easy paddles to whitewater.

Klamath River, California

Length 286 miles Designated 1981

The ingredients for a perfect family river trip: warm water, exciting rapids, bald eagles, and waterfront camps where the fire’s sparks mingle with the stars. While the upper section of the 286-mile Klamath roils out of Oregon with Class IV power, the Lower K has a mellower pace that’s fit for an introductory rafting trip. From the put-in at Happy Camp, dip paddles into the 70°F water (average August temperature) and head west, keeping an eye on the sky for raptors, the water for otters, and the banks for black bears. One thing you won’t find: boredom. The 20-mile trip has jumping rocks and riffles aplenty, and Class II/III Savage Rapid offers up a kid-size portion of whitewater. And should you need some ideas for campfire stories, the Bigfoot Trail runs through these same Klamath mountains.

Klamath River Trip Planner 

Permit None Season April to August Put-in Sluice Box Take-out Happy Creek Outfitter   oars.com

Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine

Length 92.5 miles Designated 1970

The 92.5 miles of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams in the blueberry- and bear-filled North Maine Woods are as iconic a canoe setting as you’ll find in the U.S. Tackle a six-day, 62-mile trip from Churchill Dam to Allagash Village , which includes lakes, Class II rapids, and a .3-mile, mandatory portage around 40-foot Allagash Falls. By day, look for moose, eagles, and common terns beyond your gunwales, as well as Katahdin poking out above the mixed-forest canopy. By night, camp at any of the 40 named sites while loon calls serenade you to sleep. Best bet: Hit the water in September, when the fall colors from red maple and quaking aspen stand out against the deep greens of mixed firs.

Allagash Wilderness Waterway Trip Planner

Permit Required ($13 for nonresidents)  Season May to September Put-in Churchill Dam Take-out Allagash Village Outfitter 

Middle Fork of the Salmon, Idaho

Length 104 miles Designated 1968

With rapids as big as the wilderness they pass through, the 104 miles of the Middle Fork of the Salmon through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness top just about every thrill-seeking rafter’s bucket list. That makes permits a tough get during the lottery window. Better bet: Wait until late summer, when crowds subside and trout are chunking up for the winter. Best part? Hot springs at camp all eight nights. Don’t miss Hospital Bar (mile 53), where a 115°F spring bubbles up into a pool so close to the river you can cast a fly while you soak.

Middle Fork of the Salmon Trip Planner

Permit Required ($10 + $4/person per day); lottery for May 23 to Sept. 3 Season May to September Put-in Boundary Creek Take-out Cache Bar Outfitter blackadarboating.com

John Day River, Oregon

Length 147.5 miles Designated 1988

This is as close as it gets to a relaxed cruise through big Western terrain. The John Day , the third-longest undammed river in the Lower 48, passes through a volcanic wonderland of black, basalt gorges and colorful, fossil-filled ash deposits. For the most part, the lower section ambles along leisurely, letting you relax, take in the scenery, and birdwatch as you drift downstream. The 70 miles from Clarno to Cottonwood are mostly Class I /II, but Class III/IV Clarno Rapids lurks around mile 5 (scout from river left; portage if you need to). Below that is smooth sailing through 1,200-foot-deep canyons and rolling, grassy hillsides at a soporific pace. Target stands of junipers to camp in the shade and look for mule deer, river otters, golden eagles, and red-tailed hawks.

John Day River Trip Planner 

Permit Required ($20/group); reserve ahead May 20 to July 10; Season April to June Put-in Clarno Take-out Cottonwood Bridge Outfitter servicecreek.com

Missouri River, Montana

Length 149 miles Designated 1976

When Lewis and Clark floated the Missouri on their westward journey, they saw a landscape unmarred by human industry. The river left its mark on the party: “As we passed on, it seemed those [scenes] of visionary [enchantment] would never have an end,” Lewis wrote in 1805. You won’t regret the 10 days it takes to run the entire 149 miles, but if you don’t have an expedition-length vacation, hit the three-day, 47-mile stretch from Coal Banks to Judith Landing. There, the water courses through an 800-foot-deep canyon of white eagle sandstone, flows across the plains, and threads through layer-cake badlands within Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Camping is plentiful in designated sites, including three Lewis and Clark campsites and historic Blackfeet and Flathead tribal sites with petroglyphs.

Missouri River Trip Planner

Permit Required ($4/adult per day) Season May to September Put-in Coal Banks Take-out Judith Landing Outfitter adventureboundcanoe.com

Rio Grande, Texas

Length 191.2 miles Designated 1978

Desert dwellers like others to think their stomping grounds are too arid and desolate for the rest of us to enjoy. Don’t be fooled. From open, cactus-filled Chihuahuan landscapes to tight, twisty canyons and shady arroyo side hikes, this 20-mile overnight through Santa Elena Canyon offers a sampler of the Rio Grande ’s best scenery. It’s also pretty picante: At mile 15, you’ll run Rockslide Rapid, which can reach Class IV in flows approaching 1,200 cfs (scout river right; there’s no portage option). When your heart rate settles, scan the skies for nose-diving peregrine falcons and the riverbanks for coyotes and wild burros. As you travel, look for grinding holes and petroglyphs from former Native American encampments. Camp on sandbars.

Rio Grande Trip Planner

Permits Required ($12); obtain in person at visitor centers. Season Year-round, but flows peak in August Put-in Lajitas Take-out Santa Elena Canyon Outfitter bigbendrivertours.com

Chattooga River, Georgia

Length 58.7 miles Designated 1974

Fans of Deliverance will be disappointed to learn that the Chattooga River, where the film was set, is not nearly as dangerous as the 1972 classic suggests. Fans of world-class river trips will not. While the rain-fed Chattooga serves up rapids from Class I to Class V, the best intermediate-friendly, two-day trip combines Sections 2 and 3 for a 20 miler that gets sportier the farther you go. The crux is Bull Sluice, a Class IV+ rapid toward the end (beware flows above 2.5 feet on the Clayton gauge). You’ll be immersed in Southeast scenery as you pass through Sumter National Forest’s mountainous woodland of red and white oak, birch magnolia, and mountain laurel—the latter reaches its peak kaleidoscope bloom in June.

Chattooga River Trip Planner

Permit Self-register at put-in. Season Year-round, but best April to September Put-in GA 28 Take-out US 76 Outfitter chattoogawhitewatershop.com

Loxahatchee River, Florida

Length 7.6 miles Designated 1985

The 8.5-mile day trip down this waterway will have you J-stroking in Jurassic Park as it meanders through a primordial swamp filled with centuries-old cypress, ferns, orchids, palms, and mangroves. While you won’t see any velociraptors, you’ll find plenty of their contemporaries: Sunning alligators often line the shores and slip into the water as you paddle by. (Encounters between boaters and alligators are rare, but keep your feet and hands in the boat, and never feed or harass them.) Head downstream from Riverbend Park to Jonathan Dickinson State Park with a prearranged shuttle, or paddle out and back from either of the two (the current is gentle enough to paddle against). The serpentine upper stretch is beginner-friendly, but involves two short portages around dams (or slide over them if going west to east). In Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the river widens into a mangrove-gnarled estuary.

Loxahatchee River Trip Planner

Permit None Season Year-round Put-in/take-out Riverbend Park or Jonathan Dickinson State Park Outfitter canoeoutfittersofflorida.com

Noatak River, Alaska

Length 330 miles Designated 1980

No, it’s not easy to pull off an epic paddle trip in Alaska. Yes, it’s worth it. In June, way up in the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve , the 259,000 members of the Western Arctic caribou herd make their northward journey to their calving grounds, following the river for a portion of it. The best section of the gentle, 400-mile Noatak carves a 45-mile swath through the Brooks Range from Twelve Mile Slough to Lake Matcharak. Load crafts (inflatables are easiest to transport) into a floatplane in Bettles and fly over the granite spires of the Endicott Mountains to the slough near 8,510-foot Mt. Igikpak, where a 200-yard trail leads to the river. The waterway’s gentle gradient affords time to take in the surrounding Endicott and Schwatka Mountains and to scan the tundra benches for Alaska’s A-listers: wolves, Dall sheep, and grizzlies. Run it in June for your best shot at seeing the caribou migration, or in September for fall colors, ripe blueberries, and the aurora borealis.

Noatak River Trip Planner

Permit None Season June to September Put-in Twelve Mile Slough Take-out Lake Matcharak Outfitter arcticwild.com

Tuolumne River, California

Length 83 miles Designated 1984

For paddlers with solid whitewater chops, the Tuolumne offers thrills aplenty. The 18-mile canyon teems with Class III to V pool-drop rapids, interspersed with just enough moments of calm to let you catch your breath. Take two or three days to camp on sandy beaches, fish clear pools, and hike up side creeks. Put-in below Hetch Hetchy, and negotiate Class IV Rock Garden and Nemesis rapids in the first .5 mile. At mile 5.4, land your craft at Clavey River and grab your fishing rod to try for native coastal rainbow trout or take a dip. Just below lies Class V Clavey Falls, which requires punching through two giant hydraulic holes (or portage on river right). From here, the river calms down, with jumping rocks, swimming pools, and easier rapids before ramping back up to a Class IV per mile in the final 5 to the take-out.

Tuolumne River Trip Planner 

Permit Required ($15) May 1 to Oct. 1; Season May to September Put-in Meral’s Pool Take-out Ward’s Ferry Outfitter californiawhitewater.com

Buffalo River, Arkansas 

Length 15.8 miles Designated 1992

Arkansas’s paddling options are outnumbered only by its crawfish, and the Buffalo River is the state’s heart and soul. The undammed waterway sinks hundreds of feet below the rim of limestone bluffs as it flows through the Ozarks’ forested hills. Plan a mellow weekend in the 24 miles from Ponca to Pruitt, where calm waters encourage swim stops, beaches and gravel bars invite picnics, and the waterway passes beneath 550-foot-tall Big Bluff, the tallest cliff between the Rockies and Appalachians. Beach your boat for the side hike to Indian Rockhouse, a massive but shallow cave where Native Americans once sheltered. If you catch rain on your trip, add the 20-minute walk to Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls, which cascades 209 feet—the tallest waterfall in the Midwest.

Buffalo River Trip Planner 

Permit None Season April to September Put-in AR 74 Take-out AR 7 Outfitter buffaloriver.com

Master Paddling a Canoe

Learn these basic canoe techniques to move well on the river.

Forward stroke WHAT: Conserve energy so you can paddle all day. HOW: Keep your paddle close to the boat (about 6 inches away). Dip the full blade of the paddle straight in and draw it straight back. Use your back and core, rather than just your shoulders. Swivel your torso slightly toward the paddle to further reduce fatigue.

J-stroke WHAT: Add a twist of the paddle to keep your canoe tracking straight. HOW: Start like a forward stroke, but twist the paddle gradually to turn your blade away from the canoe at the end of the stroke.

Sweep stroke WHAT: Change directions at speed. HOW: Pull the paddle in a C-shaped motion (the paddle head is farthest from you in the middle of the stroke) to propel yourself forward while turning. Do it in reverse to slow down while turning. ~Spencer Cox

How to Pack a Canoe

Stow gear right to maximize space and stability.

1. Balance the load. Put lighter items in the front and back of the boat, reserving the middle for heavier gear (which boosts stability) and ensuring items are balanced left to right. Use small drybags: It’s easier to fit them snugly around each other to fill empty space.

2. Keep air in your drybags. Maintain a little dead space in your bags and lash them below the inside edges of your boat. That way, they’ll lend some extra buoyancy in a capsize and will be easier to salvage if they break loose.

3. Bring a bail bucket. Cut the bottom off of a gallon-size plastic jug (keep the cap) so you can hold the handle and use it as a scoop. When possible, do this between rapids to hit the next set without water weight sloshing around and hindering balance. ~Ryan Wichelns

How to Read a River

Follow these signs for safe passage.

Downstream V: This feature generally denotes a good path through rough water. Look for lines in the river that form a “V” shape with the wider part closer to you and narrowing downriver.

Upstream V: These are the exact opposite, with the point of the V shape closer to you. An upstream V usually indicates water flowing around a rock or other hazard. Steer clear.

Holes: Water flowing rapidly over a submerged rock results in a frothy area of rough water just behind the obstacle. The force can flip canoes and drag swimmers under. Paddle hard and keep your boat straight if one grabs you; if in the water, swim to the side. Last resort: Ball up and hope the current flushes you out.

Color bands: Areas of water with slightly different colors parallel to each other indicate variable flows. Straight rivers tend to flow fastest in the center, while curving rivers flow fastest along the outside of a bend. Look downstream, and avoid entering faster bands that could force you into obstacles. Follow these signs for safe passage. ~Spencer Cox

Buy the Right Paddling Gear First

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Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater Rafting Trips with OARS

OARS helped pioneer whitewater rafting in the Western U.S. And since we first got started in 1969, we have guided more than 500,000 guests on rivers all over the world. Now, with more than 75 unique itineraries, we offer travelers more whitewater rafting trips than any other outfitter on the planet. But it’s not just about how long we’ve been in business, or the number of trips we offer. It’s really about the OARS experience .

Whether it’s a quick, one-day whitewater rafting trip , a week-long river trip, or an epic 18-day rafting expedition, we can guarantee a trip with OARS will end up being one of your most memorable vacations ever. Because, let’s be honest, we’re not talking about a trip to Disneyland here. River trips are the ultimate way to escape the grind, disconnect and spend quality time with friends or loved ones, or even make new lifelong friends. Not only that, there is no better way to experience some of the most scenic and remote wilderness areas in the world than from a raft, dory, inflatable kayak or stand up paddleboard.

At the core of what we do are multi-day rafting trips , offering guests incredible access to remote wilderness areas that few people get to see each year, including off-the-beaten path locations in our national parks, wild and scenic rivers throughout the West and bucket list destinations all over the world. Of course, if you’re just looking for a quick and fun trip to enjoy with friends and family, our one-day rafting trips in California, Utah and even Fiji are some of the top rafting experiences in the world.

And trust us, we know choosing the right rafting trip can be a bit overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800-346-6277 . Our dedicated year-round office staff and team of adventure consultants have hundreds of trips among us, so we know we can match you with the perfect trip and answer any and every question you may have leading up to your adventure.

Find Your Perfect Trip

Alaska Rafting on the Tatshenshini River

Location: Alaska Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 13

Alsek River Rafting Adventure

Location: Alaska Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 14

Tuolumne Whitewater Rafting 1-Day Trip

Location: California Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 14 (16 during high water)

Tuolumne River Rafting Near Yosemite National Park

Chili Bar Rafting on the South Fork American 1/2-Day

Location: California Adventure Level: Easier to Moderate Minimum Age: 8 (10-12 during high water)

South Fork American River Rafting Gorge 1-Day

South Fork Whitewater Rafting 21-Miler 1-Day

Location: California Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12

American River Whitewater Rafting Super 1-Day

Location: California Adventure Level: Easier to Moderate Minimum Age: 8 (10 – 12 during high water)

Middle Fork American River Rafting

Location: California Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 14

Two-Day South Fork American River Rafting

South Fork American River Camp & Raft – Deluxe 2-Day

North Fork American River Rafting

Location: California Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 14 (16 during high water)

Two-Day Middle Fork American River Rafting

Middle Fork | South Fork American River Chili Bar Combo

South Fork | Middle Fork American River Rafting Combo

South Fork | North Fork American River Rafting Combo

Merced River Rafting Near Yosemite National Park

Location: California Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12 – 14 (9 at low water)

North Fork Stanislaus River Rafting

Lower Klamath River Rafting

Location: California Adventure Level: Easier Minimum Age: 4

Westwater Canyon Rafting

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12 (16 during high water)

Yampa River Rafting

Location: Colorado & Utah Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 7 (10 – 12 during high water)

Green River Rafting through the Gates of Lodore

Location: Utah & Colorado Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (10 – 12 during high water)

Utah Whitewater Rafting through Split Mountain Canyon

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Easier to Moderate Minimum Age: 6 (11 during high water)

Cataract Canyon Whitewater Rafting

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 9 (12 – 16 during high water)

Stillwater & Cataract Canyon Hiker

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12

John Wesley Powell Retrace

Location: Utah & Colorado Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 16

Green River Rafting through Desolation Canyon

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (10 during high water; 12 for hiker)

San Juan River Rafting

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Easier Minimum Age: 6

San Juan River Hiker

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12

Lower San Juan River Trip: 5 Days

Flaming Gorge Green River Rafting 1-Day

Location: Utah Adventure Level: Easier Minimum Age: 4 (7 during high water)

Flaming Gorge Rafting

Main Salmon River Rafting on the River of No Return

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (12 – 15 during high water)

Snake River Rafting through Hells Canyon

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7 (12 during high water)

Gorges of the Lower Salmon River Rafting

Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12 (15 during high water)

Middle Fork Salmon River Fishing in Idaho

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 12

Middle Fork | Main Salmon River Rafting Combo

Main Salmon | Lower Salmon River Rafting Combo

Location: Idaho Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12 (15 during high water)

Ultimate Salmon River Experience

Grand Canyon Rafting: Lees Ferry to Pipe Creek

Location: Grand Canyon, Arizona Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 12

Grand Canyon Rafting: Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash

Grand Canyon Rafting: Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek

Grand Canyon Rafting: Lees Ferry to Pearce Ferry

Grand Canyon Rafting: Pipe Creek to Whitmore Wash

Grand Canyon Rafting: Pipe Creek to Diamond Creek

Grand Canyon Rafting: Pipe Creek to Pearce Ferry

Grand Canyon Rafting: Whitmore Wash to Pearce Ferry

Location: Grand Canyon, Arizona Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7

Rogue River Rafting

Location: Oregon Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 7

Rogue River Rowing Clinic

Location: Oregon Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging Minimum Age: 18 (16 with parent/guardian also in the class)

Owyhee River Rafting

Location: Oregon Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12

Chilko Chilcotin Fraser Rivers Rafting Adventure

Location: Canada Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 13

Nahanni River Rafting

Location: Canada Adventure Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 8

Futaleufú Rafting Multi-Sport

Location: Patagonia, Chile Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 12

Upper Navua Gorge: Fiji Whitewater Rafting

Location: Fiji Adventure Level: Easier to Moderate Minimum Age: 8

Middle Navua River Kayaking

Ultimate Africa: Luxury Safari & Zambezi River Adventure

Location: Zimbabwe Adventure Level: Challenging Minimum Age: 16

Zambezi River Rafting & Zimbabwe Safari

Related blog posts.

10 of the World’s Most Notorious Whitewater Rapids

The Insider’s Guide to Whitewater Rafting in California

Best Multi-Day Rafting Trips for First-timers

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The Grand Canyon - As Good as it Gets

On your Grand Canyon white water rafting trip you'll experience moments of pure thrill, times of absolute serenity, a feeling of togetherness with your group, and a deep connection with nature - all of which combine to create a truly life-changing experience. You'll learn about the history and geology of the mighty Colorado River. You'll make wonderful new friends and form bonds that can last a lifetime. And you'll do it all under the guidance and experience of the best guides in the business.

Best of Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

If you’re hungry for Grand Canyon River rafting, with loads of white water rapids and lots of miles, this is the Colorado Rafting Trip for you.  So relax and enjoy the grandeur of the Grand Canyon on one of our five Best of Grand Canyon Colorado River rafting trips.

Let Wilderness River Adventures show you the Colorado River like you’ve never seen it before on this thrilling 3 ½-day or 5 ½-day trips. On these Grand Canyon rafting expeditions, your journey will take you 86 miles from Lee's Ferry to Phantom Ranch (deep within the Grand Canyon).

Let Wilderness River Adventures be your guide on a 4 ½ and 6 ½-day trips.  On these Grand Canyon rafting expeditions, your journey will take you 102 miles from Phantom Ranch—deep within the Grand Canyon—to Bar 10 Ranch. 

Experience the best of the Grand Canyon-in grand style on our guided  5 ½ , 8  ½ and 14 day trips. If you simply can't get enough river rafting, this is the trip for you. Experience it all with over two weeks of Colorado River Adventures, spanning a full 225 miles, including 73 rated rapids, making for a canyon Grand Tour you'll never forget. 

A - Lees Ferry

Grand canyon rafting map, b - phantom ranch, c - whitmore wash.

The Adventure Begins

Each day, you'll wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee, and the sounds of rushing water mingled with the murmur of sleepy voices echoing through the canyon walls. Breakfast is hot and hearty-or as light as you want. After filling up, the group will form a "bucket line" to help load the gear back on the boats. Then the Colorado River beckons and you're off once again to experience a day of adventure as you continue on your journey onward.

Immersed in Nature

You'll enjoy the spectacular white water rapids and stretches of calm water, encouraging you to relax in the warm sun and enjoy breathtaking scenery. When lunchtime comes, you'll create your sandwiches, grab a cold drink, and relax with a book - or perhaps hike or fish - before shoving off again for an afternoon of surprises.

Settling in for the Night

Late afternoon finds you at camp for the evening. As your crew sets up the camp kitchen, everyone finds their ideal camping spot and sets up their home for the night. You'll relax with a cool drink and hors d' oeuvres and get better acquainted with your fellow river companions, as dinner sizzles on the grill. After a mouthwatering dinner and experiencing a gorgeous canyon sunset, you'll join in the conversation of the group, and listen to the quiet of the canyon as you settle into your sleeping bag under a blanket of stars.

Grand Canyon Dreams Come True

For many of our guests, rafting down the Colorado River though Grand Canyon is the dream of a lifetime. At Wilderness River Adventures, we pride ourselves in being the premier Grand Canyon adventure company—a reputation we’ve earned through unsurpassed guest satisfaction in Grand Canyon raft trips. Unimaginably beautiful scenery, the dramatic contrast of calm waters preceding the thrill of whitewater, spectacular meals and guides that know the Colorado River like none other—all setting the scene for the greatest adventure of your life.

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SPRING RIVERS

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SUMMER/FALL RIVERS

• Tatshenshini River Rafting Class III/IV (remote), 12 days, Alaska
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TRAIL & MULTI-SPORT

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• Rogue River 1/2 Day : Class III+, 1/2 Day
• Rogue River Stand Up Paddling : Class II/III, 1/2 Day
• The Scott River : Class V, 1 Day, Spring

SPECIALTY & ABROAD

• Rafting In Chile Class V (IV options), 9 Days - Patagonia
• Wilderness Gourmet Rafting Trips Active Farm to Table Gourmet trips
• DeRiemer Adventure Kayaking Trips Guided kayaking & Instruction

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• Guide Perspective: Floating into Mule Creek Canyon with guests.
• Inflatable Kayaking on the Rogue River
• Rock Jumping - Rogue River - Oregon
• Rogue River kayaking excitement. Photo: Erik Meldrum
• Mule Creek Canyon on the Rogue River - Photo: Pete Wallstrom
• Tyee Camp in spring -Rogue River - Photo: Pete Wallstrom

Rogue Wildlife

• Point of View: Whitewater rafting on the Rogue River.
• Camp Life Rogue River - Photo: Jen Jones

Rogue River Rafting

Trip length, who it's for.

Class III / IV- Options for everyone Minimum age 7

GATEWAY CITY

Meeting location.

T he Rogue River is an iconic American classic, one of the country’s great summer wilderness trips, a founding member of the National Wild and Scenic River System, and a river with such a grand reputation that in some circles it is simply known as “the Canyon”. It flows through an area rich with pioneer history and lore – some of it surviving to this day in the form of remote, river-accessed, wilderness lodges and abandoned historic homesteads. The canyon itself is a stunning wilderness playground that is home to a staggering amount of wildlife and abundant whitewater. Momentum is based a short drive away from the Rogue and we are honored to have one of the best summer rafting trips in our backyard.

The Rogue River begins in the Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness and Crater Lake National Park. It flows south west through the Cascades and then briefly touches civilization near the town of Grants Pass. We begin our trip just downstream right before the river plunges into the rugged and remote Siskiyou Mountains.

A trip down the Rogue has been compared to being in a “Planet Earth” movie. There are narrow canyons of polished rock, cool grottos draped in ferns, heavily forested hillsides, big sandy beaches, some of the best swimming holes anywhere, cascading waterfalls, and hikes up tumbling sidestreams. It is common to see bald eagles, osprey, otter, and black bear.

There are over 80 rapids and the whitewater is fun and exciting yet safe. The rapids and the choice of craft make the Rogue almost unmatched in its ability to satisfy a wide range of tastes and skill levels. It is not uncommon to have trips enjoyed by three generations of family or friends. You have the choice of sitting in relaxing oar boats, participating in more exciting paddle boats, or navigating the whitewater in an inflatable kayak (this adds a big level of excitement to the rapids). Click here to read more about Inflatable Kayaking.

Our Rogue River trips are done with Momentum’s signature style, attention to detail, and handcrafted quality. With comfortable and innovative wilderness camping, creative menus, personal service and hospitality, one of the most experienced (and friendly) guide staffs in the world, and with all the little details and touches we are known for.

For all the grand descriptions and accolades heaped on the Rogue for many of the guides who grew up here, it is simply home – a place to recharge, relax, and live simply . In the end that might say the most about this place.

Note: Each trip covers the same stretch of river but there are different ways to experience it. We offer 3-day lodge trips where nights are spent in comfortable and rustic wilderness lodges and 4-day camp trips where nights are spent under the stars. We also offer custom 3 to 5-day trips for groups and charter trips. You can read more about our trip styles below.

Options and Info

Rogue 4-Day Camp Trips

The Pacific Northwest’s classic river trip - done with Momentum's signature style, innovative wilderness camping, creative menus, attention to detail, & hospitality. A mix of adventure, relaxation, and comfortable riverside camps on one of the west’s original wilderness rafting trips.... learn more

Rogue 3-Day Lodge Trips

The lodges on the Rogue are extremely unique - there are very few places in the world with a system of remote riverside lodges only accessible by boat or small plane. It allows for the amazing experience of true wilderness adventure capped off by comfortable and cozy evenings in a remote lodge tucked deep in the canyon. ... learn more

Rogue River Wilderness Gourmet Safari Style River Trip

Join Matthew Domingo of Wilder Projects & Momentum River Expeditions on Oregon’s Wild and Scenic Rogue River for am award winning, safari camping, farm to table style wilderness gourmet trip. The trip is a unique way to experience the world-famous Rogue River & remarkable artisan meals featuring food & wine from Oregon.... learn more

Rogue High Adventure Options

Inflatable Kayaking on the Rogue River - It's just you, your kayak, rapids at "face" level, and guides leading the way. The style of whitewater on the Rogue makes it one of the best wilderness rivers for Inflatable Kayaking.... learn more

Custom & Charter Trips

Build Your Own Rogue River Trip. We specialize in putting together custom, charter, luxury camping, and private trips – it is one of our passions. Close to half of our trips are private or chartered and we have crafted custom itineraries and catered to unique needs and interests. Give us a... learn more

Why Momentum on the Rogue River

• Small Trips, unparalleled personal service, and a greater experience. • A small company committed to amazing trips & our wild places. • Safety: All our guides have a minimum 5 years of experience leading trips around the world. • Creative menus: featuring local and organic produce & products. • All inclusive: all camping gear included if needed (ultra-comfortable 3” sleeping pads). • Overall comfort: Innovative wilderness camping and lodging, attention to detail, & our signature hospitality. • Most importantly - we are friendly, we love what we do, and it shows!

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Recent Testimonials

• 5 --> "Momentum Guides & Trips are Amazing – We did a 4 day trip down the Rogue River. The entire adventure was flawless and amazing. The guides are fun smart and provide Ritz Carlton like service in the wilderness– obviously the bathroom situation is a bit tough on us city folk 🙂 You spend each day rafting, kayaking and/or swimming down a very scenic river only to arrive at at a charming campsite. The execution from start to finish is well orchestrated and eases all burdens for the people who have wilderness-deficit." --> "Momentum Guides & Trips are Amazing – We did a 4 day trip down the Rogue River. The entire adventure was flawless and amazing. The guides are fun smart and provide Ritz Carlton like service in the wilderness– obviously the bathroom situation is a bit tough on us city folk 🙂 You spend each day rafting, kayaking and/or swimming down a very scenic river only to arrive at at a charming campsite. The execution from start to finish is well orchestrated and eases all burdens for the people who have wilderness-deficit." 1 2 3 4 5 -->
• 5 --> "Our group of 4 went with Erik and Beth down the Rogue River for 3 days. It was a combo white water raft/kayak trip. The guides were excellent, the food and accommodations were superb, and the trip was one of the best I have ever been on. I have booked trips in Africa, Argentina, New Zealand, and many other locales. Momentum is by far has the best guides and service. The Rogue River trip is great for families, friends, and people of all ages. I highly recommend this adventure!" --> "Our group of 4 went with Erik and Beth down the Rogue River for 3 days. It was a combo white water raft/kayak trip. The guides were excellent, the food and accommodations were superb, and the trip was one of the best I have ever been on. I have booked trips in Africa, Argentina, New Zealand, and many other locales. Momentum is by far has the best guides and service. The Rogue River trip is great for families, friends, and people of all ages. I highly recommend this adventure!" 1 2 3 4 5 -->
• 5 --> "There are a ton of companies offering river trips in Oregon, and it can be easy to become overwhelmed by promises, prices and hype. Look no further, we’ve done the research, we’ve gone on two Momentum trips in the past few years and this is hands’ down the best. I am not paid by Momentum! I’m just a middle-aged LA working mom who loves to travel and eat! My vacations need to be good, and this one was right at the top of the list." --> "There are a ton of companies offering river trips in Oregon, and it can be easy to become overwhelmed by promises, prices and hype. Look no further, we’ve done the research, we’ve gone on two Momentum trips in the past few years and this is hands’ down the best. I am not paid by Momentum! I’m just a middle-aged LA working mom who loves to travel and eat! My vacations need to be good, and this one was right at the top of the list." 1 2 3 4 5 -->
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Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Whether you are an experienced river runner or out for your first time, we’ll help you craft a trip that will fit your needs. We have plenty of multi-day river trips, from a 24 hour trip including just one night of camping, all the way up to three-day excursions. Our trips are perfect whether you’re looking for extreme adventure or a fun trip with the kids. With options all across the state, we can set you up with a trip that’s close to you, or one in a far-off town that you’ve always wanted to visit.

Explore Colorado with a multi-day rafting trip

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you know how amazing it feels to unplug and immerse yourself in nature. Imagine lounging in a camp chair next to the river while your guide cooks you a delicious meal by a crackling campfire. Whether you choose just an overnight rafting trip, or something longer, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to experience everything the Rocky Mountains are famous for.

By traveling via raft, you’ll get to camp in picturesque spots along the river. See firsthand how the river has shaped the landscape. Wake up to the sounds of birds chirping, and emerge from your tent to a bright mountain sunrise. Best of all, on your multi-day river trip you’ll spend your days experiencing exhilarating rapids and serene mountain beauty.

Camping has never been easier

You may be wondering what all you would need to bring with you on a multi-day rafting trip. Lucky for you, your guide will bring all of the camping equipment you need. We want your experience to be streamlined and comfortable, so we take the lead with providing all wetsuit gear, tents, sleeping bags plush sleeping pads, camp chairs, amazing food, and much more.

When you raft with Echo Canyon River Expeditions, your multi-day river trip will be even easier than car camping close to home! After a day filled with paddling and soaking up sun, we’ll make sure you can relax so that you’re bright and chipper for tomorrow’s action.

We prioritize your safety

We know that you want to have both a knowledgeable guide and impeccable equipment when on the river. Safety is an even greater concern on multi-day white water rafting trips. Every piece of rafting equipment we have is top-of-the line. With decades of experience, we know exactly what you need in order to be comfortable and have fun on multi-day rafting trips.

What’s more, our guides have undergone some of the most extensive training of any outfitter in the state of Colorado. Every one of our guides has undergone more training that what the industry requires. With CPR and First Aid training, extensive river training, and even Youth Protection Training , so you know you’re in good hands.

Ready to plan your multi-day rafting trip in Colorado?

Now that you know what to expect on a multi-day river trip, give us a call and we can help you setup your dream rafting vacation. We even offer ziplining tours , mountain biking adventures, and train rides through picturesque mountain backdrops. No matter whether you’re looking for a quick overnight escape or a week-long rafting trip, we have what you need. Looking to tack on a mountain town getaway to your multi-day rafting trip? We know this state in-and-out and are here with hotel, restaurant, and what-to-do recommendations.

Arkansas River Multi-Day Rafting Trips

For rafters seeking out the most rapids without a lot of calm stretches, the Arkansas River is the way to go! Available as a two day or three day trip. Trip Price: starts at $599 per person

Dolores River Multi-Day Rafting Trips

The Dolores River is a rare jewel with impressive views, and a few exciting rapids. The river rarely flows due to limited limited reservoir releases – call us for details. Available as a three day, five day, or 6 day trip. Trip Price: starts at $990 per person

San Miguel Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Pristine wilderness awaits those lucky enough to experience the San Miguel River. Limited launches are available – call our office for details. Available as a three day raft trip. Trip Price: $850 per person

Colorado River Multi-Day Rafting Trips

Retreat to the Colorado wilderness on this gentle white water trip ideal for those searching out more mountain vistas and relaxation rather than big white water. Available as a two day or three day raft trip. Trip Price: starts at $599 per person

Echo Canyon River Expeditions

45000 W US Highway 50 Cañon City, CO 81212 (800) 755-3246 (719) 275-3154 [email protected]

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Rivers & Oceans

Rafting and Adventure Travel

Best Whitewater Rafting and Camping Trips in the United States

The United States is home to an amazing array of multi-day (overnight) rafting expeditions. Using our years of experiences guiding rafts around the world, the staff at Rivers & Oceans came up with our list of the top 10 best rafting and camping trips in the U.S. These white water rafting vacations are in no particular order , it was hard enough for us to agree on 10 trips. Since they are so unique, we have a separate blog post about our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska .

Most of the whitewater rafting trips are all-inclusive packages between 4 to 6 days with a couple of options that can last two weeks (Colorado and Salmon Rivers). The main factors considered were their whitewater rapids, scenery, remoteness, access (from airports), camping, hiking, wildlife, fishing and water quality.

If you decide to book a trip through us the costs are guaranteed to be the same as if you booked directly with the outfitter.

Best Multi-day Rafting Trips in Oregon

1. the rogue river – southern oregon   .

We love rafting the Rogue for its lush scenery, wildlife, and length at four days is the perfect amount of time. The Rogue is know for its wildlife viewing with birds of prey, turtles, otters and black bear. Kids enjoy the warm water for swimming, and hikes to stunning waterfalls and historical properties. 

This is a great river for all ages, especially families that can enjoy the class III whitewater rafting and kid friendly camping. Older kids and adults can increase the level of adventure by paddling in a raft or inflatable kayaking. Getting to the meeting location is a three-hour drive south from Portland or a 6 hour drive from the Bay Area. There is also a local airport in Medford, Oregon.

2. The Illinois River – Southern Oregon  

The Illinois River combines the best whitewater rafting, scenery, and solitude in the lower 48 states. It is such a secret due to only being run in the spring time. You will be blown away by the ruggedness of the canyon, endless waterfalls, water clarity, and the landscape of moss, flowers, and lush greenery surrounding the canyon. 

After paddling class IV whitewater, each night’s campsite provides a unique, scenic experience. Trips meet in Grants Pass, Oregon and are doable over a long weekend. Come ready to battle the elements of early spring in this remote and rarely rafted river of the coastal Cascade Range.  

River News of Oregon

Led by successful dam removals such as the Elwa and White Salmon Rivers in Washington State, the  largest dam removal in US history  was announced on the Klamath River in southern Oregon. Previous removals have restored river ecosystems as well as saving taxpayer dollars due to the dams not producing power efficiently. Most exciting is the potential salmon recovery due to recovering hundreds of miles of free-flowing river. 

Utah’s Top Whitewater Rafting and Camping Tours

3. Gates of Lodore on the Green River – Northeastern Utah  

The Green River is the longest river system in the Southwest, providing the majority of water in the Colorado River. Lodore Canyon is a stunning four-day rafting trip on the Green River through towering red rock and sandstone walls.

Within Dinosaur National Monument, this a wonderful option for families with fun technical class III rapids run in a choice of oar raft, paddle boat or inflatable kayak. Enjoy side hikes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks with additional time to relax in camp on nice sandy beaches. Trips meet in Vernal, Utah, an easy three hour drive from the Salt Lake City airport. (See our page about rafting the Green River through Lodore Canyon .)

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*** Our service is free to you and paid for by our partner outfitters. We guarantee the same price as booking directly with the outfitter.

4. Yampa River – Northwestern Colorado/Utah  

As the last free flowing river in the Colorado River system, rafting the Yampa River is a wild and special vacation. Flowing through Dinosaur National Monument like the nearby Lodore, the Yampa sees exciting flows during spring runoff, particularly in the famous Warm Springs rapid. Run the rapids of the Yampa in paddle boats, oar rafts, and inflatable kayaks.

The campsites on the Yampa are stunning, with lush box elder trees, sandy beaches and surrounded by incredible sandstone walls. Side hikes are a daily optional activity up creeks and to scenic views. This trip meets in Vernal, Utah, giving visitors the option to explore more of Dinosaur National Monument. (Find out more about Yampa River rafting tours .)

River News in Utah

In November of 2020, a major pipeline to divert water to Colorado’s Front Range cities (Denver), from Flaming Gorge Dam, which feeds into Lodore Canyon on the Green River and then into the Colorado River was denied by Utah state engineers. This is part of a decades long fight over Colorado River water. Read more in the Salt Lake City Tribune’s  article here . 

Idaho’s Best White Water Rafting and Camping Expeditions

5. the salmon river – central idaho   .

With white sandy beach camping, warm water and towering canyon walls the Salmon River is a staff favorite at Rivers & Oceans. We say you feel like you are in the Cabo, Mexico version of Idaho! Rafting the Salmon is an absolutely perfect trip for all – it has whitewater that is just exciting enough for thrill seekers to paddle in a raft or inflatable kayak, and mellow enough to relax as your float in an oar raft through the largest wilderness in the lower 48 states, the Frank Church River of No Return.

Sometimes called the Grand Canyon of Idaho, it is the second deepest canyon in the lower 48 states. It’s warm water, hot spring, historical sites and Native American pictographs make it one of the best six-day trips in the West. Together the Middle Fork and the Salmon River can be rafted 200 miles, making for an incredible 12-day expedition. (Read about the Salmon River of Idaho .)

6. The Middle Fork of the Salmon River – Central Idaho  

The Middle Fork is one of the most classic whitewater trips in North America. Flowing south to north for 100 miles through the Franch Church River of No Return Wilderness , the terrain changes between high alpine forest, grassy desert and finally into Impassable Canyon which provides for dramatic camping and rafting. Besides it’s many hot springs, side creeks and technical, rocky rapids run in oar rafts, paddle boats and inflatable kayaks, this river attracts fly fishers from all over the world.

The cold, clear water makes it a pristine habitat for many diverse fish species steelhead, cutthroat trout and also salmon. This vacation is best for the more adventurous in June and becomes a family trip in July and August. Trips meet and end in Stanley, Idaho. (See a video and more information on the Middle Fork of the Salmon .)

7. The Selway River – Western Montana/Northern Idaho  

Last but not least, rafting the Selway River is another staff favorite at Rivers and Oceans. One of the most pristine whitewater experiences and trips in North America. With incredibly diverse and lush scenery in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, class IV+ rapids run in oar and paddle rafts with world-class fishing, this river speaks for itself. Only one groups launches per day making this the ultimate wilderness adventure.

The river is typically run in five-days including a layover day (two nights camped at the same location) to give guests a day to explore the wilderness. Hike to a fire lookout tower, fly fish up Moose Creek or hang out in camp during the layover day. Trips meet in Missoula, Montana making this river one of the easiest to access. (Learn more about the exclusive Selway River .)

River News in Idaho

Salmon River water flows down into the Snake River and then through the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean. These drainages are some of the most ecologically diverse and critical to species both inland and in the ocean.  Idaho Rivers United  created a community education program to help improve habitat conservation for wild fish that are critical to Native American communities, the Idaho economy and more. 

Top Overnight Rafting Trip Packages in California

8. tuolumne river – yosemite , california.

The Tuolumne is called the champagne of the Sierra due to it’s light bubbly whitewater in a dramatic canyon. Over 18 miles the river has 16 named class IV rapids plus many more class II and II rapids creating some of the most consistent whitewater rafting of any river. Everyone typically paddles on these trips. What puts it on the top 10 list is the camping and exploring on two and three-day trips. The Clavey River and the North Fork of the Tuolumne both provide world-class swimming and relaxing. Plus the Tuolumne River’s proximity to Yosemite makes it a much do for anyone visiting the park. (Check out the Sierra’s Tuolumne River .)

9. Cherry Creek/Tuolumne Combo – Yosemite , California

Those that want more than the Tuolumne’s class IV experience can head upstream to Cherry Creek, the most difficult white water rafting in the United States. Paddle 9 miles of class V whitewater on Cherry Creek and then proceed down the rapids of Tuolumne River to camp over two or three days. This package provides the most whitewater intense rafting trip to be had anywhere.

Be warned, to participate in this trip you have to pass a swim training and be fairly fit. Most should stick with the Tuolumne run which is more than enough whitewater for all but the most die-hard enthusiasts. (Find out if rafting Cherry Creek is right for you.)

Cherry Creek Rafting Video

Best Rafting and Camping Tours in Arizona (and potentially the world!)

10. colorado river through grand canyon national park – northern arizona.

The Colorado River is unquestionably on everyone’s list of best rafting and camping trips in the world! There is huge whitewater, amazing sandy beaches for camping, and incredible hiking to scenic vistas and lush grottos. The human history of the area is fascinating and the guides are typically well seasoned and knowledgeable. These trips run from overnight to 18-days. The question is which is the best trip and when to go . (Learn more about floating through Grand Canyon .)

Concluding Thoughts

While all these vacation packages create an incredible experience between the rafting, camping, and scenery, the best white water rafting trip in the US is the one that meets your groups needs. Families with children from 8 to 13 will be best on the Gates of Lodore, Salmon, and Rogue Rivers. The other rivers are not as family friendly with longer river days, tougher conditions, or harder whitewater. Looking for something more remote and wild check out our Alaskan rafting trips .

If you have questions or just want to talk about rivers please give us a call or contact us by email ! We’ll point you to the best outfitter and destinations for you and your group. We guarantee the same price as working directly with the outfitters.

Start Planning Your Best Adventure

Dispatches from adventure tours around the world and tips for intrepid travelers. Read Our Blog

Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Interactive map of our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking wilderness rafting rivers in the world, with varying degrees of challenge and adventure. In this article, we will discuss the top multi-day wilderness rafting rivers in Alaska, including the miles and days of each trip, whitewater, wildlife and how to access the rivers.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, an all-inclusive rafting trip might be just what you’re looking for. Here’s everything you need to know about these unforgettable adventures.

Keep Reading > All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Experts in wilderness travel, we have extensive connections within the industry through our 60+ combined years guiding most of the trips we offer including hundreds of rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

There is no fee for our service, ensuring the cost of your expedition is the same as booking directly with the outfitter  ( Learn more ).

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Hours: M-F, 8 am – 5 pm ( See current AZ time ) [email protected] 928-526-4575 123 S. San Francisco St. #16 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

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12-18 Day Colorado River Trips

Are you ready to experience the ultimate extended Colorado raft trip in Grand Canyon? This 12 - 18 day trip options are available in all non-motorized raft types;Oar, Paddle, Hybrid and Dory.There are three end points: Whitmore Wash, Diamond Creek, and Lake Mead. If you are looking for rafting the full canyon with highly challenging rapids of Colorado River, this trip is for you!

• Canyon Route

12-18 Day  Trips

12-18 day full canyon non-motor trips.

• Cost Range: $3,210 – $5,630
• Raft: Oar/Paddle/Hybrid/Dory
• Meet: Las Vegas NV, Flagstaff AZ, Page AZ or Marble Canyon AZ
• Route Begins: Lees Ferry – Mile 0
• Route Ends: 3 options – Whitmore Wash – Mile 188, Diamond Creek – Mile 225, Lake Mead – Mile 280
• Rapids: 38-47 major rapids rated 5 or above (1-10 rating scale)
• Required Hike: None at start or end

12-18 Day Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

The Grand Canyon National Park is the second most popular national park in the United States. As a result, it should come as no surprise that visiting the Grand Canyon and rafting the Colorado River are two experiences that are often at the top of people's minds when planning a lifelong bucket list.

A 12-18 day rafting expedition is arguably the best way to explore the length and breadth of the Grand Canyon. In comparison to shorter 3-5 day or 6-9 day tours, a 12-18 day trip offers more than enough time to experience everything the Grand Canyon has to offer, from its thrilling whitewater rapids and stunning river vistas to the ancient canyon geology and fascinating Native American cultural sites.

12-18 Day Rafting Trip Routes

There are three different routes available for a 12-18 day Colorado River trip, with each trip beginning at Lees Ferry near the magnificent Marble Canyon. The Marble Canyon region is a great place to start, with the towering vermillion walls clearly showcasing the natural beauty and geological history of the Grand Canyon. From Lees Ferry, you'll be traveling the entire length of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River. When you're not powering through whitewater rapids, you'll be disembarking to explore remarkable systems of side canyons.

After passing from the Upper Canyon to the Lower Canyon, you'll stop below the South Rim, where passengers may depart or join your tour group via a hike along the Bright Angel Trail. After 12-18 days have passed and you're nearing the end of your tour, your trip will terminate at one of three pre-established take-out locations along the Colorado River. Keep reading for a more detailed breakdown of your trip route and post-take-out transportation options.

Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash (River Mile 188)

The Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash route offers passengers an exciting opportunity to end their Grand Canyon river rafting adventure with a bang. Once passengers conclude their trip at Whitmore Wash, they will leave their raft behind before taking a short helicopter ride out of the Lower Canyon and to Bar 10 Ranch. There is no better way to take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon AZ than with the panoramic views of a helicopter ride. Depending on your helicopter ride operator, you may even have the chance to fly deep into the Grand Canyon, dipping down some 4,000 feet below the Grand Canyon Rim to land in one of several idyllic, ultra-isolated fly-in locations. Once at Bar 10 Ranch, you can take a small charter plane back to Marble Canyon. Alternatively, a charter plane can be arranged to return you to Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport for further travel or for your flight home.

Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek Road (River Mile 225)

Starting at Lees Ferry, this route extends your journey from Whitmore Wash by another 37 river miles, concluding your trip at Diamond Creek Road. From Diamond Creek Road, air-conditioned ground transport will ferry you back to one of two locations. Firstly, you can take transportation back to Flagstaff AZ airport for flights further on to Pheonix, Denver, or Dallas. Alternatively, you can choose to board an air-conditioned coach to be transferred back to Las Vegas. Once you arrive in Las Vegas, you'll have an opportunity to farewell your raft mates before being dropped off at either your Las Vegas accommodation or at McCarran International Airport.

Lees Ferry to Lake Mead (River Mile 280)

The Lake Mead take-out point offers a unique opportunity to see the entirety of the Grand Canyon. Not only does this mean that you'll see more sites and explore more side canyons, it means you'll be able to take advantage of some of the Colorado River's best rapids at the mouth of Lake Mead. If that wasn't enough, the Lake Mead take-out point also offers another exciting addition to your trip. Once you reach river mile 240, you'll leave your raft behind and take a speeding jet boat across the lake, finishing up your experience at river mile 280. From here, air-conditioned trip transportation can either take you back to Lees Ferry and the Marble Canyon area, or it can transport you further on to Las Vegas.

Raft Options for 12-18 Day Grand Canyon Trips

Because of the relatively quick cruising speed of Grand Canyon motor rafts, canyon outfitters are not able to logistically support 12-18 day motorized rafting trips. Fortunately, there are many different options when it comes to selecting a non-motorized raft for your Grand Canyon rafting experience. Read on for a more comprehensive breakdown of how different trip transportation options and raft styles can influence your tour.

Oar rafts are the second most popular raft option for full Grand Canyon rafting trips . In most cases, oar raft trips generally consist of a group of between 18 and 24 people, with approximately 5 people per raft. Your river guides will be seated at the center of the raft with two long oars; these will be used by your river guide to power and steer the oar raft for the duration of your trip. Passengers are never expected to paddle on an oar raft. However, in calmer waters, your river guide may allow you to try your hand at paddling. Please note, this privilege is at the discretion of your outfitter and is not guaranteed.

An oar raft usually travels at the same pace as the current of the Colorado River, averaging at 3-4 mph. Despite traveling at half the pace of a motorized raft, it's important to remember that a slower boat means you'll become better acquainted with the ebb and flow of the river. You'll also have more time and opportunities to bond with your raft mates and soak up relevant information from your river guide.

Out of our 15 river outfitters, 12 offer 12-18 day Grand Canyon trips. Please note, depending on your outfitter, multi-day canyon rafting trips will have a minimum age requirement of between 10 and 12 years.

Paddle Rafts

Paddle rafts offer passengers the ultimate whitewater experience. With only 6 to 8 passengers per boat, each individual is expected to pull their weight and paddle the raft all day, every day. Like an oar-powered boat, a paddle raft travels at roughly the same pace as the Colorado River, covering around 3-4 mph. As with oar raft tours, this experience offers passengers a more intimate rafting experience, providing you with plenty of opportunities to get to know your river guides and learn more about canyon geography and the region's diverse collection of flora and fauna.

Unfortunately, paddle rafting is in short supply from our outfitters, with only 4 of our 15 outfitters offering 12-18 day paddle rafting trips. Paddling and steering a raft for up to 18 days can be extremely tiresome and taxing on the body. If you're thinking of undertaking a Grand Canyon paddle rafting trip, we recommend that you only consider this option if you have previous paddle rafting experience under your belt. The minimum age requirement for paddle rafting trips will vary depending on the outfitter. However, in most cases, children under the age of 12 are not permitted on paddle rafting trips.

Unlike other Grand Canyon rafts, dory rafts use a wooden or rigid carbon fiber construction rather than an inflatable rubber construction. This allows for much greater agility and gives passengers the ability to 'feel' more of the river when traversing whitewater rapids. More often than not, dory rafts will accompany oar rafts on a longer multi-day Grand Canyon river trip. This not only allows guests to experience two different raft types, but it also fosters a friendly atmosphere between you and your raft mates. These trips usually consist of a flotilla of around 5 boats, with passengers rotating between the oar rafts and the dory boat on a day-to-day basis. As with oar rafts, guests may be given an opportunity to try their hand at paddling a dory raft. However, this is at the discretion of your river guide (who will be doing the vast majority of the paddling).

As you might expect, dory raft outfitters have a minimum age requirement of 10 to 12 years of age. For specific age restrictions, speak directly with your outfitter.

Hybrid Rafts

A hybrid rafting trip consists of a mixture of 5-6 oar boats and 1 paddle raft. Over the course of your rafting adventure, you and your raft mates will rotate between the oar boats and the paddle raft, thereby giving every passenger the chance to try their hand at paddling through the Colorado River. Hybrid trips are a perfect one-size-fits-all option, ideal for both inexperienced rafters who want to begin paddle rafting more seriously as well as people who simply want to give paddle rafting a go without stressing about the physical exertion of paddling every day.

Hybrid rafting trips are not widely available amongst our outfitters, with only 4 out of the 15 offering hybrid trips. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted on hybrid trips.

What's Included On a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip?

You can rest assured knowing that your river outfitter will provide almost everything you'll need for your trip. Broadly speaking, the equipment provided for rafting trips is generally the same amongst outfitters. However, there may be some variation depending on your trip length and river vessel selection. After you confirm your trip with your outfitter, you'll receive a more specific list of items that will be included, as well as more information on what you'll need to pack yourself. In the meantime, read on for a more detailed introduction to trip inclusions for Grand Canyon river tours.

Food and Drinks

During 12-18 day canyon rafting trips, your rafting outfitter guides will be responsible for the storage, preparation, and distribution of all meals, snacks, and drinks, whether you're socializing at camp or relaxing on the Colorado River. Fortunately, your tour operators are not only ultra-competent canyon rafting guides, but they're also highly skilled when it comes to cooking for a large group. When it comes to food and drinks, your outfitter will take care of the following:

• All meals (your outfitter will do everything they can to accommodate for dietary requirements).
• An assorted range of snacks, including candy, chips, and trail mix.
• Unlimited water and a plentiful supply of non-alcoholic beverages, including sports drink, soda, juice, tea, and coffee.

Rafting Equipment and Dry Bags

In addition to equipping you with all relevant paddling and river safety paraphernalia, most outfitters also provide at least 3 different-sized dry bags to keep your personal belongings safe and dry throughout your trip. Each dry bag set uses an assigned number system to ensure quick and private identification. Specifically, your outfitter will provide the following safety equipment and dry bags:

• A fitted life vest.
• 1 large dry bag for personal belongings, such as dry clothing and personal hygiene products. This dry bag will only be accessible when you are at camp.
• 1 large dry bag for your outfitter provided camping equipment. This dry bag will only be accessible when you are at camp.
• 1 small dry bag for your essential belongings. This bag will be accessible to you at every stage of your trip, including while you're out on the Colorado River.

Most necessary bedding and sleeping items will be supplied by your outfitter. The main benefit of this inclusion is that it saves you the hassle of packing and carrying around several pounds of bedding for the duration of your trip. Before departing for Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, be sure to check with your outfitter whether a pillow is included as not all outfitters will provide one. In short, your outfitter sleep kit will include the following items:

• Groundsheet/tarp.
• Sleeping bag.
• Sleeping sheet.
• Cot or rubber mattress pad.

Camping Gear

You won't have to forego any of your usual camping comforts on Grand Canyon rafting trips. This is because your river guides bring all the camping equipment required for a comfortable camping experience, including but not limited to:

• Cooking facility and kitchen equipment.
• Plates and cutlery.
• Private Groover toilet system and hand wash station.

What Should You Be Packing?

Your packing requirements for a whitewater river trip will be heavily dictated by your season of travel and the weather forecast for your trip. To give your packing list a headstart, we've listed some general recommendations for what you should bring along with you on multi-day Grand Canyon rafting trips.

• Sun protection: To ensure that you have adequate sun protection while on the rive, you'll need to bring a hat, a long-sleeved shirt, a pair of lightweight trousers, and a tube of sunscreen with at least a 30+ SPF rating.
• Weather appropriate clothing: Be sure to pack appropriately for your season of travel. In most cases, it's a good idea to bring a range of cool clothing options for daytime use and a couple of pairs of warm clothing for cooler nights. In our experience, forgetting to pack at least one set of warm clothes can quickly spoil your Grand Canyon trip.
• Tech: Be mindful that bringing cameras or any other handheld tech with you will expose these devices to an outsized chance of water damage. Remember, while you're in the Grand Canyon, you will not have access to any cell reception. Given these conditions, it's worth considering the pros of leaving your phone behind.
• Reading materials: If you enjoy relaxing over a good book, it's a good idea to pack one or two pieces of reading material for your Grand Canyon trip. There will be plenty of opportunities to sit back, relax, and read during afternoon and evening downtime. Please note, tablet-style e-Readers face the same risk of damage as other electronic devices — bring along these devices at your own risk.
• Alcoholic beverages: Adult passengers over the age of 21 are permitted to bring a modest amount of alcohol on their trip. These beverages can only be consumed in the evening while at camp. Under no circumstances will the consumption of alcohol be permitted while passengers are on the river. Finally, before purchasing alcoholic beverages for your trip, be sure to check if there are any additional alcohol restrictions with your outfitter.

Top 5 FAQ: 12-18 Day Rafting Trips

How much does it cost to go rafting in the grand canyon.

For a 12-18 day trip, you can expect to pay between $3,210 and $5,630. At first glance, this may seem like a hefty price to pay for a simple rafting holiday. However, it's important to remember that this cost will cover pretty much everything you'll need once you arrive at Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. This coverage includes air-conditioned trip transportation at the beginning and end of your trip, daily meals and snacks, rafting and camping equipment, as well as experienced onboard river guides. If you're looking for a less expensive canyon river trip, you might be interested in a slimmed-down tour of the Upper, Lower, or Western Canyon routes. These trips usually take 3 to 5 days , and typically cost between $1,080 and $2,314.

Remember, specific costs for a Grand Canyon rafting adventure are dependent on a number of factors, namely your chosen trip length, your route preference (including your route end choice), and your raft type selection. If you'd like a personalized trip quote, you can get in touch with our friendly team by calling 888-244-2224 / 928-351-7711 or emailing us at [email protected] .

Can you raft the entire Grand Canyon?

Yes! Through the 15 rafting outfitters that partner with Advantage Grand Canyon, there are several different ways that you can raft the full Grand Canyon. To check out both the Upper and Lower Canyon in a single trip, you'll need to book either a 6-9 day motor tour or a 12-18 day raft tour.

How long is the wait to raft the Grand Canyon?

If you plan on traveling to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon outside of the peak tourism months, you'll usually have very little trouble booking a spot on a multi-day raft trip. On the other hand, if you plan on arriving at the Grand Canyon in June or July, make sure you're ready to compete with peak Summer Holiday vacationer demand. In the latter situation, we recommend that prospective rafters book their trip at least six months in advance to ensure they get a spot with one of our outfitters.

What is the best tour of the Grand Canyon?

This is a tricky question! Making a concrete decision on the single 'best' rafting tour in the Grand Canyon is a near-impossible task. For starters, the characteristics of the 'best' tour will vary significantly depending on your fitness level, personal recreational preferences, and prior experiences with rafting and/or outdoors adventuring.

Keeping that in mind, we're still confident enough to say that a 12-18 day Grand Canyon river tour is one of the best, if not the best, options for rafting and exploring the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon National Park Service keeps the entire National Park in pristine condition, making it suitable for guests almost all year round. By taking a longer trip, you'll have a chance to immerse yourself in the Grand Canyon's rich history, from its towering vermillion walls to its biodiverse ecology.

What else can you experience after completing a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon?

As well as its world-renowned whitewater rapids and river raft tours, the Grand Canyon also boasts a wide range of exhilarating post-trip activities and scenic tourist sites. Upon completing a river raft trip in the Grand Canyon, your river guides will be more than happy to sit down and give you an insider's take on the Grand Canyon National Park's other well-known attractions and adventure activities. To kickstart your post-trip itinerary planning, we've listed five of the best non-rafting experiences currently on offer in Grand Canyon National Park.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Grand Canyon, and for good reason. In addition to providing you with spectacular views of the Grand Canyon, all of the canyon's major hike trails are superbly maintained by the region's diligent National Park Service, an organization that works tirelessly to provide hikers with safe, accessible, and well-marked trailheads.

When it comes to hiking in the Grand Canyon, it's hard to look past the internationally acclaimed Bright Angel Trail. This 9.5-mile trek is not for the faint-hearted, descending down into the Grand Canyon from the South Rim all the way to the Colorado River at the canyon floor. While veteran hikers will likely be able to complete the Bright Angel Trail in a single day, less experienced hikers may be better off tackling the full hike in two sections. Luckily, the Bright Angel Trail is outfitted with two mid-hike rest stops (at the 1.5-mile mark and 3-mile mark) that can act as a turn around point for casual hikers. Otherwise, day hikers can either camp overnight at the Bright Angel Campground or stay in pre-booked lodgings near the end of the hike trail at Phantom Ranch.

If you're really passionate about hiking side canyons, other notable hiking trails in the Grand Canyon include the South Rim Trail, the North Kaibab Trail, the South Kaibab Trail (often combined with the Bright Angel Trail), and the Havasu Falls Trail.

Ride Bikes on the South Rim

Not a fan of hiking trips? Opt for a Grand Canyon bicycle tour instead! Around the South Rim alone, cyclists can take advantage of more than 13 miles of well-maintained roads and dedicated bike trails. One of the most famous bicycle trails on the South Rim is the scenic Hermit Road Greenway Trail. Beginning at Hopi Point, Hermit Road runs for 7 miles, looping west following the South Rim and tracking between a medley of stunning Grand Canyon viewing platforms. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more time-effective bike route, we recommend the spectacular South Kaibab and Yaki Point trailhead.

If you're looking for another truly unique Grand Canyon experience to supplement your Colorado River trip, consider taking a mule ride under the North or South Rim of the Grand Canyon. During a mule ride tour, you'll get the chance to learn about the geological formations, rim ecology, and human history of the Grand Canyon from either your mule ride operator or National Park Service wrangler.

Mule rides along the South Rim are offered all year round. Visitors can opt for a three-hour day trip around the South Rim or, if you've got time for an authentic multi-day Grand Canyon experience, you can take a mule ride down to the canyon floor for an overnight stay at Phantom Ranch. Rest assured, these mules are sure-footed and surprisingly comfortable, making a mule ride a faster, more reliable, and — dare we say it — more luxurious alternative to trudging along a Grand Canyon hike trail. In terms of pricing, a single-day three-hour mule trip typically costs around $152, however, prices will vary depending on the season.

While not available all year round, North Rim mule rides can be booked between May 15 and October 15 each year. If you're short on time, take a 1-hour ride and enjoy the sun-drenched landscape of the North Rim. For a more involved ride, a half-day mule tour will provide you with a unique view of the Grand Canyon from within the North Rim. Unfortunately, you cannot take a mule ride down to the Colorado River from the North Rim. Due to the more limited route availability, the cost of a 1-hour North Rim mule ride is quite affordable, with prices typically starting at around the $45 mark.

Mule rides tend to book out quickly so be sure to purchase your tour ticket well in advance (you can book a mule ride up to 15 months ahead of time). Please note, mule tour operators have a minimum age requirement of 7-10 years for mule rides in the North Rim and 9 years for mule rides in the South Rim.

Grand Canyon Sky Walk

Perhaps the Grand Canyon's most popular tourist attraction, the Sky Walk offers a unique and memorable opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Grand Canyon. Situated 4,000 feet above the floor of the Western Canyon, the Grand Canyon Sky Walk, made from four layers of reinforced see-through glass, extends 70 feet across a side canyon near Eagle Point. This glass cantilever bridge offers uninterrupted, panoramic views of the Western section of the Grand Canyon. Because of its glass floor design, the Sky Walk is the perfect attraction for anyone looking to face and conquer a fear of heights (don't worry, the glass structure is strong enough to hold 71 fully loaded 747 passenger jets.

Please note, handheld cameras and phones are not allowed on the Sky Walk. In addition to ensuring guest safety, this precaution means you'll be free to enjoy the view without worrying about having your phone blown out of your hands. If you'd like to memorialize your visit to the Sky Walk, professional photographs are available to purchase on-site.

Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Yavapai Museum of Geology

Located at the South Rim, calling in on the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is an excellent way to book activities or source information on rafting trips, hike trails, or helicopter ride operators. You'll also find plenty of information on the history of the Grand Canyon and its role as one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. You can easily spend half a day wandering through the Grand Canyon village, whether you're learning about the rich Native American history of the region or visiting the Yavapai Museum of Geology for more insight into the Grand Canyon's captivating geological past. While in attendance at the Yavapai Museum of Geology, you can enjoy various geography exhibits, a well-stocked bookshop, and panoramic picture windows that offer uninterrupted views of the Grand Canyon.

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Hells Canyon / Snake River 5 Day Rafting Adventure

Trip description.

2025 Launch Dates:

May 19th Hiking Special: Open(details below) May 31: Open June 8: Open June 16: Open (*non-motorized) June 24: Open July 2: Open July 10: Open July 18: Open July 26: Open August 3: Open August 11 Tech-Free Float: Open (details below, *non-motorized ) August 19: Open August 27: Open September 4 Fishtrap Writing Outpost  :Open September 15 Hiking Special: Open (details below) *Non-motorized days are Monday-Wednesday every other week beginning on the first Monday in June through the last week of August, in the Wild Section of Hells Canyon.

Float the deepest river canyon in North America, the Snake River through Hells Canyon on our 5 day rafting adventure. This whitewater rafting trip runs 79 miles through the heart of Hells Canyon, from Hells Canyon Dam to Heller Bar in Idaho. Each trip begins and ends in Joseph, Oregon where round-trip transportation to and from the river is included in your trip cost. Run world-class, powerful class III and IV whitewater, the likes of Granite and Wild Sheep rapids. Visit historical sites, fish for Rainbow Trout and prehistoric White Sturgeon, and let our guides take care of your every last need. And we’d to like to mention that our gourmet menu is capstoned with locally raised and grown ingredients when available. We are happy to accommodate most dietary needs upon request. A perfect trip for adventure-seekers ages 7 and up.

Our Hiking trips build in more opportunity to get up and above the water to hike stretches of the canyon. May and September offer different hiking opportunities; both months tend to be slightly cooler. May is often bright green, abloom with wildflowers, potential for spring showers, and tends towards higher river flows and side drainages. September offers warm days, cool nights, a variety of mature fruit plucked fresh from the tree, less potential for poison ivy, and lower water flows. These trips include a layover day for a long hike; as well as a jet boat ride down to the take out where you will be picked up in our shuttle vans and brought back to our boathouse. Please call with questions. Trip Dates: May 19-23, Sept 15-19 Cost: $2125 

On our Tech-Free Float we kindly ask you leave your screens and devices(phones, smartwatches, tablets, kindles, go pro  etc) secured safely in our boathouse. Each guest will be provided a waterproof camera. At the end of the trip, all photos will be developed and shared with the group! The first 3 days of this trip are non-motorized and offer the experience of a quieter canyon with fewer people and less commotion. This is the perfect trip to plug in to the greater natural world around you. Reconnect to yourself by slowing down and diving in…to the river, the depths of conversation, and light of the Full Moon.  Please reach out directly if you require some form of tech in conjunction with a medical device. Trip Dates: August 11th-15th Cost $2105

• Rates/Dates

2025 Snake River in Hells Canyon Rates & Dates *We are able to accommodate multiple trip lengths in 1 launch with multiple take-outs

2025: 3 & 5 day (or 6 day) launches: May 19, 31 June 8, 16, 24 July 2, 10, 18, 26 August 3, 11, 19, 27 September 4, 15 **We can offer 4 day trips for chartered groups. Please call for pricing and logistics.**

Pricing does not include gratuity or a $30 flat rate Federal use fee.

Cancellation Policy: Your reservation will be confirmed after we receive a deposit of 50% of your total trip cost. Your trip balance will be due 60 days prior to your launch date. If you find it necessary to cancel your trip, you should notify Winding Waters River Expeditions in writing or by e-mail immediately.  If written cancellation is received (call to verify) before the final balance is due, you will be given a refund less the amount of the deposit.  Again, deposits are non-refundable.  If cancellations are made on or after the final due date, no money will be refunded.  If you are unable to go on the trip, you are welcome to find a replacement for yourself.  Please understand that once you’ve signed up, we lose the right to sell your reserved space to other individuals or groups.  Therefore, we regret that we cannot make exceptions for personal emergencies.  

Travel Protection: In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For more information on the available plans www.travelexinsurance.com or contact Travelex Insurance 800-228-9792 and reference location number 37-0062.

Winding Waters River Expeditions reserves the right, either prior to or after departure, in its good-faith discretion and in circumstances that warrant it, to change any trip itinerary.  This includes the possibility of moving to a different river or river segment due to extreme water conditions, forest fires, road closures and/or acts of God.

The following itinerary is a “typical” trip. Please know that natural occurrences happen on the river (large groups may move slower than smaller groups, etc.). We do our best to keep the trip moving along, but know we may not meet these times exactly. And the last day, we do not recommend large travel plans. We will do our best to take-out on time, but natural occurrences like wind can foil the best laid plans.

Day 0 – Arrival Day: Meet at 6pm at the Winding Waters’ Boathouse in Joseph, OR for our pre-trip orientation to have introductions, discuss trip logistics, receive personal dry-bags, and answer remaining questions. Visit our Boathouse Shop for any last minute items for your trip, including sunscreen, river shirts, river hats, fishing licenses and more.

Day 1 – Launch Day: Breakfast served at our boathouse at 7AM and depart by 7:30am. Travel in the Winding Waters’ van to Hells Canyon Dam through the beautiful Wallowa-Whitman National Forest along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. Meet your guide crew at the Dam. Launch by 11am following a brief risk management discussion. Lunch will be served riverside. Encounter rapids such as Wild Sheep and Granite on this first day with time to relax, fish, explore archaeological sites and take in the breathtaking views. Plan to be in camp by 4:00pm today. Expect an evening beginning with a delicious meal, followed by good conversation, games and merriment. Feel free to bring a musical instrument.

Day 2 – River Day: The morning routine: hot drinks and fruit juice served by about 6am and breakfast by 8am. The guide crew will break camp and after a brief discussion of the day’s plan, begin the day’’s float by 10am. Today’s rapids include Bernard, Water Spout, and Rush Creek. Visit ancient pictograph sites, not so ancient homestead cabins, and jump from Sturgeon Rock. Lunch will again be served riverside today with camp arrival around 4pm. Expect another wonderful evening beginning with a delicious meal followed up with good conversation, games and merriment.

Day 3 – River Day: Morning routine. Today will be spent hiking to the overlook at Suicide Point, floating, scanning the slopes for wildlife, spotting the birds responsible for those beautiful songs, exploring historic Kirkwood Ranch, laughing and playing in the river. Lunch will again be served riverside with camp arrival being around 4pm. There is always time in camp to take a swim, go on a short hike, read a book, catch a fish, play Bocce Ball, or simply lay in a hammock. Expect another wonderful evening beginning with a delicious meal followed up with good conversation, campfire, games and music.

Day 4 – River Day: Morning routine. Today pass Pittsburg Landing, the take out for our 3 day trips. Enter the lower canyon, where the canyon walls appear to crowd in, rising as far as the eye can see. The landscape changes every minute as our perspective changes. Big Horn Sheep, Bald and Golden Eagles are often spotted in these tight canyons. Lunch will be served riverside with camp arrival by 4pm. You can expect an evening beginning with a delicious meal followed up with good conversation, games, and merriment.

Day 5 – River/Take Out Day: Morning routine. Today we will pass the confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers. This spectacular location marks the end of the Salmon, the longest free flowing river in the lower 48. A short hike at this confluence affords a magnificent 360 degree view of both rivers. Down-river, explore Cherry Creek Falls and Cache Creek Visitor Center and Museum, a former homestead site. Lunch will be served riverside. The shuttle van will transport you back to Joseph and our Boathouse typically between 5pm and 7pm. Late arrivals can happen due to unforeseen circumstances. We do not recommend making large travel plans this evening.

Included in your Trip Cost:

• Round-trip transportation to and from the river
• Outstanding, fully catered guide service, along with all necessary equipment
• All camping equipment, including spacious tents, thick sleeping pads, & cots
• All meals from departure to lunch on the last day

Put-In/Launch (Hells Canyon Creek, aka Hells Canyon Dam):

Take-Out (Heller Bar, WA):

Q: Do you need experience to go on this whitewater rafting trip, or can you take beginners? A: The wonderful thing about rafting with an outfitter is that you do not need any experience. When joining a whitewater rafting trip with Winding Waters, guests are at ease knowing we have trained, professional guides who know the river. The level of difficulty of a river is based on the character of its whitewater rapids. The Snake River in Hells Canyon has class III-IV whitewater and is a pool and drop, stair-step river. Stair-stepping means there will be a pool, then a drop where we find our rapids. We have taken many novices down this river and they have felt very safe in our hands.

Q: What’s the youngest age you can take on this trip? A: We can take children ages 7 and up. We have child-sized US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFD’s). We’re happy to consult with parents about any specific questions.

Q: Can we charter a private trip? How many people do we need? A: We are glad to offer private charter trips to groups of 15 or more. A charter trip means that your group makes up all of the trip’s participants. We do not sell that trip departure to any outside guests. Call us today to reserve a date for your trip: 877.426.7238.

Q: What time and where do I meet for my trip? Where is the nearest airport? A. Pre-Trip Meeting Place and Time: Winding Waters Boathouse in Joseph, OR @ 6PM the night before your launch. * Nearest Airports: Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport, Lewiston, ID, Boise Airport, ID, and Walla Walla Regional Airport, WA * Shuttle Service: Rent a car from one of these airports or contact us for potential pick-up. We provide round-trip transportation to and from the river for most of our trips once you arrive in Joseph.

Q: Can you advise us on tipping/gratuities? A: We treat our tipping discussion with great care. Our guide crew will work very hard to make your vacation the best it can be. If you wish to tip, we recommend treating it like a restaurant (anywhere from 15% to 20% of your trip cost for the crew). You can either give your lead guide cash at the end of the trip or put it on your credit card. The gratuities will then be distributed among the guide crew. Give us a call if you wish to discuss further. And please know tips are not expected.

Q: What kind of boats do you use on this trip? A: We typically use 4 different types of boats on this trip: oar boat, paddle raft, inflatable kayak, and stand-up paddle boards. On an oar boat, a guide rows the boat while you enjoy the scenery. In a paddle raft you are an active participant in paddling with others and a guide. An inflatable kayak is a single boat where you guide yourself with instruction if needed. A stand-up paddle board is basically a large surf board with a paddle.

Q: What equipment and services do you provide? A: We provide the following equipment and services beyond guiding boats on every trip: 1. Paddle (if you’re on a paddle boat), PFD (life jacket), and helmet (for those riding in inflatable kayaks or stand-up paddle boards). 2. Camping Equipment: tents and sleeping pads. 3. Tents: We provide roomy 3 person tents (for 2 people) and have tents sizes for up to 5 people. But the real joy is sleeping under the stars… 4. Meals are prepared in our complete camp kitchen and you will dine at tables with tablecloths, chairs, plates, silverware, and napkins. We take care of all aspects of food prep, from cooking to dish clean-up.

Q: What kind of clothing should I wear/bring? A: During the day, quick drying shorts and tops work best. For your feet, synthetic sandals like Chacos work great that have straps to hold them to your feet. We do not recommend flip-flops. In the evenings and mornings, we recommend warmer layers, including a fleece jacket, pants, socks, and closed-toed shoes (like tennis shoes). Additionally, shoes for hikes are recommended. You can purchase river shirts, river hats, sunblock, sunglasses, and other items in our Boathouse Shop prior to your trip.

Q: Can we fish on this trip? A: Yes, the Snake River in Hells Canyon is an excellent fishery for Rainbow Trout and White Sturgeon. We can throw in fishing gear for while we’re floating, as long as it does not interfere with the group traveling in a timely manner down the river. We recommend an Oregon fishing license and you can purchase one either online (https://or.outdoorcentral.us/or/license) or from our Boathouse Store the night before your launch.

Q: What about bathrooms while we’re on the river? A: We have you covered. We follow “Leave No Trace” minimum impact camping and traveling etiquette on all river trips. The bathroom facility we use is called the River Bank Toilet System. When in camp, we set up the toilet in a separate, private area, complete with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. The guides will explain all of the details of how to use it.

Q: What advice do you have regarding batteries for camera equipment and keeping camera equipment dry? A: A: If you want to bring your portable video camera and/or digital camera, but are concerned about batteries running out, you have 2 options. One, bring extra batteries (at least 2 more than you think you’ll need). Two, bring a portable solar-powered battery recharger. They do exist and we’re pleased to report- they do work! As for keeping your electronic equipment dry, we provide small dry bags that stay with you on the boat during the day. We also sell small hard-shell, water-tight, and padded Pelican cases in our Boathouse Shop.

Q: What kind of weather and water temperatures are typical on this trip? A: Visit our Weather & Water Page for information on air temperature and water flows for different times in the year. Water temps generally range from mid 60’s to mid 70’s.

Q: Do I need to be a strong swimmer to come on your trips? What if one or more in my group doesn’t know how to swim? A: You do not need to be a strong swimmer, or even know how to swim to enjoy a river trip with Winding Waters River Expeditions. All participants are required to wear a US Coast Guard-approved PFD, or personal floatation device (back in the old days, we called ’em Life Jackets). These high buoyancy jackets are designed to keep your head above water should you find yourself having an out of boat experience. Now, that said, if you do not know how to swim and you are afraid of water – river rafting is probably not going to be your cup of tea. Small children (ages 5-10) typically aren’t good developed swimmers, yet they love our trips. We have child-sized PFD’s and look after our smallest guests with great zest and joy.

“Just spent 5 nights, 6 days with WWRE on the Snake River through Hell’s Canyon (+ a day of guided fishing on the Wallowa). These guys are great! Friendly & professional staff, great food, good gear, etc. By whatever metric you want to measure these guys, they nailed it. I’m looking forward to going on a trip with them again in the future.” ~ Brian, Austin, TX

“Thirteen other women and I took a trip with Winding Waters on the Snake River. It was the first time we used this outfitter. Our experience could not have been better. Most importantly, Paul and Morgan and the rafters were extremely safety conscious. The guides were loads of fun, but when there was a difficult rapid, they gave very clear instructions and in the rapid, they were “all business”–then laughed again right after. We very much appreciated that. All 3 guides, and the young men they hired as assistants were very knowledgable, polite and a whole lot of fun. The food was fabulous! The guides were knowledgeable about the geology and Native American history of the river and could answer virtually all of our questions. They all seemed to love their jobs. It was very clear they were in service to us–our safety and our fun. We would not have changed a thing, and that is saying a lot for 14 women!! We were able to relax, knowing they had everything under control. We were so happy that the week after we got off the river, we booked again for this summer. I cannot say enough good things about this group.” ~Lisa, New Orleans, LA

Need more convincing? Check our reviews on Trip Advisor .

Rates & Dates

208•756•4167.

Six-day whitewater rafting trips: Salmon River, Idaho

WHICH IS THE BEST WHITEWATER  RAFTING SECTION OF THE SALMON RIVER FOR YOU? Every white water rafting river has its own characteristics and personality. The “best” river rafting trip  is the one that matches your interest and available time.  Your preference might be on-the-edge whitewater, or hardly any whitewater at all.  You may be interested in only a quiet day trip, or spending a week or two camping along the Salmon River–or drifting gown the Salmon each day and spending nights in riverside lodges instead of camping. Fishing might be an interest for you, either dry-fly fishing for trout or steelhead fishing from a drift boat.  You may be interested in a spring trip when there are essentially no people on the river, the big game animals are still near the river, flowers are blooming, and sense of wilderness is greatest, or you may prefer the warmer, more secure weather of mid-summer.  Large sand beach camping with swimming may be a choice, especially if there are younger kids in the group.  Regional history, both natural and cultural, may be an interest.

The Salmon is one of the classic wilderness whitewater rivers.  By choosing time of the year and section of the river, the Salmon River can stimulate nearly any interest–but not necessarily all interests on the same trip.  We offer multiple day camping trips on all three back-country sections of the Salmon, the Middle Fork, the Main Salmon, and the Lower Salmon, and day trips near the town of Salmon, as well as a variety of fishing trips.

Main Salmon River white water rafting

The Main Salmon River on the River of No Return offers excellent whitewater intermingled with placid pools, magnificent mountain scenery, beautiful sand beaches,  warm summer temperature, and frontier history.   With more beaches, warmer water, and more moderate rapids than the Middle Fork, the Main Salmon River rafting is an excellent Idaho white water rafting trip for families with grade school age kids.  Because rapids are simpler than the Middle Fork, with deeper pools below rapids for gather-up, it is great water for inflatable kayaks.  Group size is usually 8-12 people, and charter trips can be arranged throughout the summer.  Main Salmon River camps are mostly on sandbars. We can also offer an Idaho river rafting on the Main Salmon River with no camping, staying in cozy riverside lodges each night.  We float 80 miles in six days.

Learn more about the Main Salmon River

Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is  often considered the best of Idaho rafting trips.  We float 100 miles in six days, dropping 3000 feet in elevation.  The river grows as it drops.  The canyon changes from lodgepole pine forest to mixed timber and open grassy slopes and finally in Impassible Canyon, dramatic sheer granite cliffs, rising to peaks six to seven thousand feet above the river.  This is one of the deepest canyons in Idaho.  Rafting is the only access to this part of the Middle Fork of the Salmon.  There are a number of hot springs along the Middle Fork.  We stop at some of them, and sometimes camp nearby.  We see deer in the upper sections of the Middle Fork, bighorn sheep in the lower.  The trip begins at nearly 6000 feet elevation, so temperatures are cooler than the Main or Lower Salmon.  Wildlife and scenery are generally comparable to the Main Salmon, though the scenery does change with loss of elevation. There is very good catch-and-release trout fishing available on the Middle Fork, especially later in the season after the river level drops.  We can provide special fishing trips using McKenzie drift boats or two-person rubber boats. Rafting is the primary access to the Middle Fork of the Salmon; no power boats are allowed on the Middle Fork.

Group size on the Middle Fork is limited by the Forest Service to 24 passenger, though many of our groups are smaller, especially early and later in the season.   Aggipah can arrange charter trips for those who want private vacations. For those who prefer to break up five nights of camping, we can arrange for you to spend a night or two in a riverside lodge with sheets and showers. 

Learn more about the Middle Fork of the Salmon River

Lower Gorge of the Salmon River Rafting

White water  on the Lower Salmon River is similar to the Main Salmon River, though rapids are less frequent. Beautiful sand beaches and warmer water temperatures are ideal for swimming. Trout and small mouth bass fishing is good in late summer and early fall. White water rafting in Idaho can begin early in the spring on this section of the Salmon River with late August and September being the best times to be on the Lower Salmon River. September white water river rafting on the Lower Gorge of the Salmon is one of the most under-rated and over-looked of all the Idaho white water rafting trips. September trips are Friday thru Monday, so a trip can be a long weekend rather than a major vacation. Because the trip is only four days and shuttle distance is less, this river trip is a great rafting vacation at a great bargain especially for people living within a few hours driving time. Our fall CAST AND BLAST Chukar hunting / Steelhead Fishing Trips are on the Lower Salmon River, where we find more birds than upstream river sections.

Learn more about the Lower Gorge of the Salmon River

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Why I Love River Rafting (And How You Can Too)

The American landscape is shaped by water. Rivers run in patterns like veins on a leaf; streams so small you can walk across join to form creeks, and creeks join to form small rivers. Rivers merge to form the iconic waterways of the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon or the mighty Mississippi. When road tripping, the route will often follow a river's circuitous path of least resistance through the country. We'll catch a glimpse of a beautiful river as we pass high overhead on a bridge. Well, I promise you, you'll see some incredible sights and have a lot more fun if you stop staring out the window and passing rivers by and get out on the water!

As the daughter of a Montana river guide and someone who spends most summer weekends rafting the Flathead, I know that there is no better way to see the path less traveled than taking a river rafting trip. Speak with any river guide, and they will tell you that a river trip leaves a lasting impression on a traveler in a way many other experiences can't. Something magical about how a river trip can change your perspective and show you things you'd never otherwise see. I love how it simultaneously challenges and excites you yet still fosters a sense of calm and "go with the flow."

River rafting can be a design-your-own-adventure if you have the skills and the gear, but the best way is to book a trip with a guide who knows the water. When many people hear 'rafting,' they think of whitewater rafting or even extreme whitewater in the Grand Canyon. But what many folks don't know is that there are rafting adventures for anyone, no matter your experience level or tolerance for adrenalin. And so many rivers to choose from! This guide will give you an overview of rafting trips in America and help you book the right raft trip for you, whether it's your first or tenth raft trip.

Is River Rafting for You?

Rachel Schmidt

If you're a thrill-seeker, there are many rivers in all areas of the country where you whitewater raft through churning rapids and eddies. Rapids are measured on a scale of I-VI, based on how big a rapid's waves are and how difficult it is to run. According to American Whitewater , a Class I rapid is fast-moving water with riffles and small waves. At the other end of the spectrum, Class VI rapids are extreme, perilous, and should seldom be attempted. The majority of family-friendly whitewater is rated II - III. However, a rapid's rating does not tell the whole story, as the volume of water in a river can make a massive difference in the experience of running a rapid. High flows can turn a rapid into a monster, and low flows can make it gentle. But always remember the class of a rapid does not dictate how much fun you will have—bigger isn't always better, and a class IV does not mean you will have more fun than a class II.

Those who are more interested in seeing the country, views, wildlife, and just simply floating look for what is usually billed as a 'scenic raft trip.' These are sections of rivers with minimal rapids, letting you merely enjoy the float.

It's no fun being scared out of your mind on a supposedly chill float. Neither is being stuck on a slow, calm float when you were looking for a thrill ride. Even though booking trips online is standard procedure for travelers these days, I highly recommend you call and speak with the outfitter before booking a rafting trip. Be clear about what you want. Scenic float? Family-friendly whitewater? An epic adventure? If whitewater is essential, ask about the typical river flows for when you're doing your trip and how that impacts their trips.

How Far Do You Want to Raft?

RELATED: Grand Canyon Camping is the Best Adventure You Haven't Taken

Figuring out how much of the river you want to experience is just as important as choosing the right type of rafting trip. Typically you can book half-day whitewater or scenic floats, full-day combinations, or multi-day trips.

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Half-day trips are usually 3-4 hours in length. A full day is usually 5-7 hours and almost always includes a riverside meal packed in the boat with you and eaten on the side of the river. Sometimes your meal is transported to the river and prepared for you at a particular spot along your journey. No matter how long of a trip, you will be driven on a shuttle to the "put-in," the place of river access where you start your trip. You will end at the take-out, where another shuttle vehicle will pick you up and take you back to the raft company's headquarters. Unlike 'river rides' at amusement parks, you will not start and stop at the same place. Natural, free-flowing rivers do not flow in a circle; you will always be floating down river when rafting.

If you have the time to experience a multi-day raft trip, it can be a true bucket-list experience. For a multi-day trip, the professional river guides pack all you need in dry bags and rafting-specific pack boxes in the boat with your group. You camp on the side of the river, enjoy lovely food while sitting around a campfire, and experience parts of the world that few ever do. You need to know that there are usually no formal restroom facilities on these trips; at best, you will be in an outhouse situation. More likely, you will use a self-contained toilet system that is also packed in the raft and set up behind cover on the river's shore.

This is nothing to be afraid of or avoid (hey, we all do it). You just need to familiarize yourself, so you know what to expect. The best way to get a feel for what a multi-day trip looks like on or off the river is to check out companies' websites that make the gear. Have a look at NRS and Eddy Epics 2.0 .

Book a Raft Trip with Professionals

Rafting trips are run by licensed guides and state-endorsed outfitters. When booking a trip, it is improbable in North America that you will run into fraudulent, unlicensed services. Still, you can always ask to verify their credentials. Unless you have significant river-running experience, booking a self-guided trip is not a good idea. This type of trip is basically a raft rental with acceptable use on a specific section of a river. Book a fully guided trip.

However, just because you've booked a guide doesn't mean that you won't be doing some of the work. There are two types of raft setups: oar rigs and paddle boats. An oar rig has you sitting in the boat, either front or back, and the guide is in the middle steering the boat with two large oars. A paddleboat positions all the passengers on the boat's sides, each with an oar to provide the power and a guide in the back steering with a paddle or rear oar mount. There is a hybrid called a paddle assist; this is an oar rig with paddlers on each side, front and back. This is mainly used on more extreme rivers and is not common.

Before You Book, Some Pro Tips

• Book a suitable trip for the person in your group who is most apprehensive about the experience. For example, if you have a child or adult who is significantly afraid of trying whitewater, make sure you book a trip for your whole group to alleviate this fear. If you book an aggressive whitewater trip in this situation, you make a miserable trip for the person with apprehension. It impacts everyone on the boat.
• Most day trips and some multi-day trips combine multiple groups in a boat. If you are looking for something exclusive for your group only, you must request it, which will likely have an additional cost.
• Pricing is usually based on per person per day trip or per person per day for multi-day trips. Make sure to clarify, so you understand pricing. And the saying 'you get what you pay for' applies here as well; price shopping between companies in a specific area for the lowest price is not always the answer.
• Depending on the river and the level any given river is running at the time, there most likely will be age restrictions. Ask for details if you have young children or the elderly in your group.
• If you enjoy your ride, tip your guide! 10-20% is average.
• For a list of reputable outfitters across the country, check out America Outdoors Association .

What Is a Wild and Scenic River?

According to National Wild and Scenic Rivers , "The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The Act is notable for safeguarding the special character of these rivers while also recognizing the potential for their appropriate use and development."

There are 3 classifications of a river:

• Wild- rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments and generally inaccessible except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted
• Scenic- rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments, with shorelines or watersheds still essentially primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped but accessible in places by roads
• Recreation- rivers or sections of rivers that are readily accessible by road or railroad that may have some development along their shorelines and that may have undergone some impoundment or diversion in the past.

Check out a map of these rivers and make plans to visit as many as possible. Examples of outfitters that provide experience on the Flathead Wild & Scenic River System are Glacier Raft Co. and Montana Wilderness Lodge & Outfitting .

Though embedded like a tick in her hometown of Whitefish, Montana, Rachel Schmidt has spent her life adventuring across the continent. Her career spans a spectrum of the recreation industry and conservation work with a pitstop for a term as the Directory of the Montana Governor's Office of Outdoor Recreation. Most of the time she's fly fishing, camping, hunting, skiing, rafting, boating, drinking whiskey and/or chasing her two teenage sons and Hal-the-bird-dog. Instagram @mtraerae .

What do you love about rafting? Share with us on our Wide Open Roads Facebook !

READ MORE:  The Best Whitewater Rafting Spots in the US (For Newbies Or Enthusiasts)

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The World’s 13 Best Multi-Day River Rafting Trips

By Zachary Collier

When river guides banter around the campfire, conversation usually turns to the biggest rapids and the best river trips in the world. Although everyone has their favorites, the list of legendary rivers is almost always the same.

1. Middle Fork of the Salmon River (Idaho)

In my opinion, the “Middle Fork” is the best river trip in the world due to its 100 miles of continuous Class III and IV whitewater, clean water, great camps, world class fishing, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. It ends in the famously beautiful Impassable Canyon that is unlike any other in the world. Typically done in 6 days (perfect!), this is a river trip that brings groups together like no other. ( Learn more about trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River )

2. Illinois River (Oregon)

The magical Illinois River flows through the northern end of Oregon’s Kalmiopsis Wilderness , an area known for uniquely wild rivers and emerald green water. There really is something special about this river and surrounding wilderness that cannot be described in words. Unfortunately the flows are erratic and the rapids challenging making it difficult to access. ( Learn more about the Illinois River )

3. Colorado River (Arizona)

The Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is special because you float through one of the seven wonders of the world and trips can be as long as 25 days! This is a big water river with pushy rapids and long pools in between. This is definitely the best river trip for side hikes. ( Learn more about the Colorado River )

4. Futaleufu River (Chile)

Patagonia’s Futaleufu (Foo-Two-Lay-Foo) River is well known for it’s huge rapids and turquoise blue water. The mountain scenery is stunning and the traveling through Chile is simply wonderful. This is the best trip for big rapids. ( Learn about the Futaleufu River )

5. Tuolumne River (California)

The Tuolumne River (or just the “T”) has a special place in my heart, so it was hard to not rank it #1. The Main Tuolumne sets the standard for Class IV and the Upper Tuolumne (aka Cherry Creek) sets the standard for Class V. Theses sections of the “T” cascade through a deep canyon in the Sierra Nevada Mountains just outside of Yosemite National Park. ( Learn more about the Tuolumne River )

6. Magpie River (Canada)

A trip on the Magpie starts by flying onto a wilderness lake via float plane. Like other legendary trips, the Magpie offers great rapids, side hikes, wildlife, and adds an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the mystical aurora borealis. The highlight is the last night camp where Magpie Falls plunges off an 80 foot plateau directly across the river.

7. Rogue River (Oregon)

The Wild Rogue River is the classic American West river trip and it’s the perfect trip for first timers. It has great Class II and III rapids and warm water in a thickly forested canyon. This is the best river trip for families and for viewing wildlife. ( Learn more about NWRC trips on the Rogue River )

8. Franklin River (Australia)

The Franklin River famously runs through the rugged wilderness of Tasmania. This remote expedition includes many portages and the added challenge of rapidly changing water levels. You’ll enjoy big rapids, deep gorges, and beautiful camps sites.

9. Selway River (Idaho)

The Selway is a remote trip on a beautiful Class IV river in Northern Idaho. Only one trip is allowed to launch each day making it hard to get on this gem. ( Learn more about rafting the Selway River )

10. Tatsenshini and Alsek Rivers (Yukon and Alaska)

These parallel rivers flow through some of the most remote regions in the U.S. and Canada. The whitewater is fairly easy (unless you run Turnback Canyon on the Upper Alsek) but the grizzly bears, cold water, and remoteness will present plenty of challenges. You can start on the Tatshenshini River and meet the larger Alsek River or run the Upper Alsek. Both trips end where the Alsek runs into the Pacific Ocean. ( Learn more about the Alsek from our friends at Wilderness River Outfitters )

11. Karnali River (Nepal)

Karnali means “holy water from the sacred mountain” since it starts at Mount Kailash in Tibet. It is the longest river in Nepal and the classic long river trip in a country full of long river trips. The Karnali ends in the lush jungles of Bardia National Park.

12. Kaa-Khem River (Siberia)

The Kaa-Khem starts as a creek near the Mongolian border and flows north into the Sayan Mountains of Southern Siberia. The Siberian region of Russia has more untamed wilderness rivers than anywhere else in the world and there are several rivers that would make this list (Katun, Bashkaus, Chuya, and Akishma ), but they’re logistically challenging for Westerners. ( Buy Vlad’s book Rivers of an Unknown Land about rafting in Siberia to learn more )

13. Zambezi River (Zambia and Zimbabwe)

The famous whitewater section of the Zambezi River starts below Victoria falls and flows through the Bakota Gorge. This trip is normally done as a day trip, but can also be extended to a world class multi-day river trip through the entire gorge. Learn more about the Zambezi River .

Originally Published: April 5, 2014 | Updated on September 21, 2024 | Categorized under: River Descriptions

Zachary Collier

As owner of Northwest Rafting Company, Zach Collier combines international guiding experience in places like Siberia, Bhutan, and Chile with a natural business acumen for systems and logistics. Whether he’s on big water or in the back office, Zach strives to ensure Northwest Rafting Company offers exceptional whitewater and wilderness experiences for guests and guides alike.

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Rafting at the Grand Canyon

Ask any of the 22,000 Colorado River runners who brave Grand Canyon white water river rafting trips each year to describe the experience and you're likely to hear that it is "the trip of a lifetime." Licensed Grand Canyon river rafting companies vie with eager private boaters for the limited Grand Canyon Colorado River rafting permits the National Park Service makes available every year. Kayaks, dories, oar-powered inflatable rafts, and graceful motorized rigs are the watercraft of choice through this world-class Grand Canyon whitewater rafting wonderland. Trips are moderately expensive and last anywhere from one day to just over two weeks. There are also different levels of excitement available for these trips. Float trips tend to be milder and travel mostly on the smoother part of the Colorado River with fewer rapids. Other Grand Canyon river rafting trips take on the Class 5 rapids head-on! If you have the desire to travel through the Grand Canyon via water, there is a Grand Canyon river rafting trip for you.

Many Grand Canyon river rafting trips depart by van from Flagstaff or Las Vegas and put-in at points like Lees Ferry, located about 2 1/2 hours from Flagstaff and about 50 miles north of the North Rim entrance. These trips start booking up a year in advance, but it never hurts to keep an eye out for last-minute cancellations or unfilled spots. Grand Canyon river rafting trips are definitely one of the most memorable Grand Canyon experiences a person could ever experience.

How to Choose a Grand Canyon River Rafting Trip

Common elements of all trips.

Rafting through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River is absolutely one of the best trips you will ever take in your life. The Grand Canyon is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, and the only one you can spend a week peacefully floating through. The scenery and geology change mile by mile, and the mood of the canyon shifts just as much as evolving clouds and light create a spectacle for the senses. A lack of cell phone service and Wifi will help bring your family closer together, and you will likely develop friendships with the other passengers that can last a lifetime. Kids struggle to comprehend how they can survive a week without interacting with their friends on social media, but it is beautiful to watch them blossom time and time again after just a couple of days of being present and engaged with the world around them. Guides do the majority of the work so that you can enjoy the canyon and quality time with each other. Still, everyone is expected to participate in loading and unloading the boats each day, and working together as a group is one of those intangible things that makes rafting through the Grand Canyon so memorable.

You will sleep on sandy beaches underneath one of the best night skies the country has to offer. On a night without a moon, the Milky Way lights up the sky between canyon walls a mile high. Have satellite races and count shooting stars with your loved ones as you lay in bed. You aren’t allowed to fall asleep until you’ve seen 2.

Days start early with the intention of packing up and leaving camp by 8 or so in the morning. This allows for ample time hiking upside canyons, to Ancestral Puebloan ruins, or to waterfalls, and for relaxation time at the next camp in the afternoon. Everyone will stop and have a deli-style lunch around lunchtime, and dinner around dinnertime. Leave your watch behind and embrace falling into a natural rhythm. The food is outstanding, but dietary accommodations can be made as long as ample notice is given to the company you book a trip with.

Most of the time spent on the river is in flatwater, providing plenty of time for guides to explain the geology, ecology, and human history of the canyon, as well as regale you with countless colorful stories from their previous river trips. This, of course, is punctuated by the thrill of whitewater rapids. There are over 80 named rapids and they are rated on the Grand Canyon scale of 1 - 10, but some days will be calm and some will feel like an adrenaline roller coaster.

@southwestmedia Have you ever gone whitewater rafting? This one of the most incredible experiences of a lifetime. #grandcanyon #grandcanyonrivertrip #grandcanyonnationalpark #bucketlist #adventuretime ? Acid Cowboy - Disco Lines

Grand Canyon White Water Rafting One Day Trips

Smooth water rafting below glen canyon dam (horseshoe bend float trip).

Duration: Around half a day. Route: This trip often begins below the Glen Canyon Dam, near Page, Arizona. It covers the smooth waters of the Colorado River as it winds through the canyon walls. Experience: Suitable for families and those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience without intense rapids.

White Water Rafting in the Grand Canyon

Duration: Full-day trips can last around 8-10 hours. Route: These trips venture into the Grand Canyon, tackling sections of exciting white water. Launch points can vary, and trips may cover different parts of the river. Experience: Geared toward those seeking a more adventurous experience, with the opportunity to navigate through challenging rapids.

Hybrid Rafting Trips

Duration: Some companies offer hybrid trips that combine smooth water rafting with a shorter section of white water rafting. Often these are combined with helicopter tours of other nearby attractions. Route: These trips may cover both calm and more challenging sections of the Colorado River. Experience: Provides a mix of relaxation and excitement, catering to a broader range of preferences.

Grand Canyon River Rafting - One Day Trips

Before choosing a trip, the first thing to consider is whether to do a private or commercial rafting trip. Private trips are for experienced river rafters who want to organize the whole adventure on their own. Permits are awarded through a lottery system, and the permit holder must have been on at least one Grand Canyon river trip before. Permits are applied for over a year in advance. For more information, please see https://grcariverpermits.nps.gov/

Commercial trips are run by professional outfitters and are typically booked 6 months - 1 year in advance. Outfitters provide the boats, guides, food, water, tents, waterproof bags, and sleep kits. Experienced guides know where the shade is when it’s hot, how to keep you drier when it’s cold, and understand the logistics of how to go on the best hikes during the day and still get the best camps at night. If you don’t want to figure any of that out on your own, keep reading!

The first thing to take into account before choosing a commercial Grand Canyon river trip is whether you want to do a motor or oar-powered trip. Motor trips are shorter and can carry more amenities, while oar trips are longer and a little more rugged.

Motor trips are generally considered more appropriate for all ages and ability levels. They typically consist of two 37’ rafts that are each powered by a 25 hp motor, allowing you to cruise through long flatwater sections and run more rapids in a given day. Grandma, Grandpa, little Billy, and even Aunt Esther with the trick knee are all welcome on a motor trip. If you want to get wet, you can sit in the front and be slapped in the face by the best waves the Colorado River has to offer. If Grandma prefers a smoother, drier ride and wants to watch little Billy get slapped by waves all day, she can do that too by sitting towards the back of the boat. Motor trips fall more on the ‘glamping’ side of outdoor recreation and have more storage for things like professional cameras and evening cocktail ice than oar trips do. Companies set their own policies on age restrictions, but 8 years old is often the minimum. There is no maximum and able people in their 80’s come on these trips every year.

Oar trips are longer, more intimate, and more appropriate for those with outdoor experience. Each boat is rowed by a trained boatman and typically carries 4 passengers, so the atmosphere is quiet and seems to facilitate conversation that meanders with the river. You’ll hear canyon wrens singing as you float by, spot trout swimming beneath you, and feel your adrenaline pump at the growing thunder of an approaching rapid. Although it doesn’t happen every trip, there is always a risk of oar boats flipping in a rapid. (Please note: f-l-i-p is the worst four-letter word on the Colorado River, followed closely by w-i-n-d.) It is considered one of the safer rivers to unintentionally swim, but is certainly not an experience recommended for the faint-hearted.

Oar trips have a lot of variation in the number and types of crafts offered. The most common boat is the 18’ long raft. Dories are also rowed with oars by a single boatman, but are slightly smaller and made of wood or fiberglass, so they tend to slice through the water and fly up the faces of waves. Paddle boats are run by a paddle captain, who steers from the back and gives commands to 6 paddlers. They are great for a workout and usually the most fun boat on the river, plus there is always the option to participate on easier or harder days. Each company has a different combination of oar boats, paddle boats, and dories, so check before you book. Some companies will also send along a motor boat strictly for carrying gear to provide you with the same camp amenities enjoyed by motor trip passengers.

This is where it gets a little more complicated. The length of trip you can do is highly variable and depends mostly on whether or not you hike in or out of the canyon. Both motor and oar trips may exchange passengers at Phantom Ranch, who must hike the Bright Angel Trail 10 miles with a mile of elevation change. This allows you to participate on half of a 12-16 day oar trip or 7-10 day motor trip, although the lower half of the canyon takes slightly longer than the upper half.

The hike itself is spectacularly beautiful, but very challenging even for those in shape. Steep switchbacks near the river called the Devil’s Corkscrew are notoriously difficult. Heat radiates off the black Vishnu Schist when temperatures in the shade during June and July can already be 120 degrees. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even hyponatremia are common problems along this stretch of the trail when hiking in. Indian Gardens is the halfway point and offers bathrooms, ample shade beneath large cottonwood trees, and a creek to cool off in. Beyond Indian Gardens, the trail is steep and very sun-exposed. There are more frequently spaced water spigots, but also another long set of switchbacks to climb before reaching the South Rim. It is not recommended to do this hike during June or July because of extreme temperatures that make it by far the most dangerous part of the entire river trip. Young children, the elderly, those with heart conditions, and those unaccustomed to steep terrain or hiking at altitude tend to suffer on this hike. It is not uncommon for people to miss their river trip by underestimating this challenge and not being able to complete the hike. Go at your own risk.

You don’t have to hike at all. Full-length trips without exchanges are the best to do because it gives the whole group more time together and no time is wasted waiting for everyone to hike in or recover from the hike. However, this may not be realistic due to time or budgetary constraints. Upper half trips start at mile 0 and end at mile 88. Lower half trips start at mile 88 and can end in several different places depending on the company you book through. Many companies have passengers take a helicopter flight out of the canyon at Whitmore Wash, mile 188, after surviving the grand finale rapid, Lava Falls. Some companies take you downstream to Diamond Creek at mile 225 where you can bus out. Others take you all the way to the Grand Wash Cliffs at the very end of Grand Canyon, mile 280. Alternatively, those looking for a quick adventure can helicopter in at Whitmore Wash, experience a few moderate rapids and camp for just 1 night.

The last stretch of the canyon below Whitmore Wash is the hottest with the least to do, but the helicopter ride and charter flight back to civilization from the Bar X Ranch do add substantial costs to the price of the trip.

Both the upper and lower halves of a Grand Canyon river trip are unforgettable, but there are a few differences worth noting. The upper half has the potential for more hikes to archeological sites and more interesting geology. Although both halves feature the same rock layers, the colors are a little bolder in the upper half. Additionally, since you observe each one rising from the Earth around you as the canyon grows deeper on the upper half, you tend to hear more about each layer from your guides. The lower half has more big rapids and more waterfall hikes. You run most of the biggest and baddest rapids in Grand Canyon right after hiking into the lower half, but will still enjoy more tranquil days once you survive the Upper Granite Gorge. If price is a big concern, do the upper half, but if the thrill of whitewater is more important, do the lower half.

Trips vary extraordinarily in the number of days they take to complete the upper half, lower half, or whole canyon. This makes a huge difference in the quality of the trip. Longer trips offer more time for hiking, more time with a beer in hand and toes in the sand at camp, and fewer long days on the water. You simply don’t have as much time to see all the hidden gems in Grand Canyon’s side canyons on a short trip, and it can make the whole experience feel more like a bus tour. Unless the whole point of going is only to prove to family and neighbors you did something adventurous, I highly highly recommend taking the longer trip when presented with different options.

One last thing to consider are trips with a certain focus. Some companies offer yoga specials, hikers’ specials, kayaker support trips, etc. There is one string quartet trip every year, where they search for the best acoustics in Grand Canyon’s labyrinth for making music. Guides will always tailor their trips to the group they have, but if a focused trip will significantly enhance your experience, ask about options before booking.

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Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas with VIP Skywalk & Pontoon Boat Ride

Book the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway with this combo tour that begins with a helicopter flight from Las Vegas. Get a birds-eye-view of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees en route to the West Rim. Then descend to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado River. Finish with VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck that hovers above the sandstone walls. A souvenir photo and coach transfers are included. ** Please note: Effective for travel prior to April 1, 2024, the price displayed does not include a USD30 per person fuel fee. This fee is payable direct to the supplier on the day of your tour **

• Grand Canyon helicopter combo tour from Las Vegas
• View Hoover Dam and the sandstone canyon walls on a helicopter ride
• Land on the floor of the Grand Canyon Take a pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River
• Marvel at the breadth of the canyon from the glass-bottom Skywalk at Eagle Point with skip-the-line admission
• Hotel transport and souvenir Skywalk photo included

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Colorado River Rafting Trips

The most famous river in the West: the mighty Colorado. The ultimate whitewater experience for any outdoor enthusiast, Colorado River rafting trips have it all.

Holiday is proud to offer trips on the Colorado for everyone from first-time river rafters to insatiable adrenaline junkies. Whether you opt for a mellow float or a whitewater rollercoaster, the Colorado River and its canyons invite you to enjoy majestic vistas, wildlife, archaeological sites, mind-bending geology, and the opportunity to reconnect with the natural world.

In addition, Colorado River rafting trips carry you through some of the most pristine dark skies in the United States . Out here, the Milky Way is more vibrant than you imagined possible.

Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River

Born in an alpine meadow high in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Colorado River cascades down through the mountains and canyons of the western Rockies, gathering strength and tributaries along the way. Our rafting trips on the Colorado begin just east of the Utah-Colorado border, and flow south with the river all the way through Grand Canyon.

Hop aboard a three-day trip through Ruby-Horsethief and Westwater canyons. Try an easy excursion past the Fisher Towers, just outside the town of Moab, Utah. Follow the Colorado into Canyonlands National Park and Cataract Canyon. And when you’ve done all those, discover the famed Grand Canyon, the biggest canyon of them all. From top to bottom, there’s a Colorado River rafting trip for everyone.

2–3 Day Westwater Canyon

Colorado River rafting trips don’t get much better than this! Short but sweet, our Westwater Canyon whitewater rafting trip is a perfect introduction to multi-day rafting. The Colorado River drops over Class II–IV rapids, cutting through the same ancient black rock found at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

5–6 Day Cataract Canyon

The Colorado River’s most notorious whitewater ride lies deep within Canyonlands National Park. Cataract Canyon has it all: mesmerizing stretches of calm water, towering canyon walls, epic rapids, ancient ruins and rock art, brilliant dark skies free of light pollution, and fascinating side canyons. Holiday’s oar-powered, motor-less rafts provide both a relaxing and a thrilling ride into corners of the national park that are only accessible via the river.

5–9 Day Grand Canyon

The very name “Grand Canyon” brings to mind unparalleled beauty and world-famous whitewater. This granddaddy of whitewater rafting in Arizona boasts 150 rapids, including Lava Falls and Crystal Rapid: awesome to behold, and exhilarating to run. More than rapids, however, Grand Canyon has an incredible variety of hikes, geology, and history to explore. Sparkling clear springs gush from cracks in the cliffs, forming lush oases of ferns, pools, and wildflowers. Each of the Earth’s climatic zones is represented in Grand Canyon, from alpine forests on the rim to the Sonoran desert ecosystem in the lower elevations. Opt for a non-motorized Grand Canyon trip and see the Colorado River’s most famous canyon at its own pace.

2 Day Fisher Towers Youth Trips

Just minutes outside of Moab, Utah, our Fisher Towers trip features some of the best scenery in eastern Utah. The maroon towers are a classic red rock feature, sitting in stark contrast to the sometimes-snowy, 12,000-foot peaks of the La Sal Mountains. Our two day trips provide a gentle introduction to whitewater rafting, including plenty of calm, flat water, and several fun but mellow rapids. Great for inflatable kayaking and youth groups.

Why Choose Holiday?

With nearly six decades of experience running expeditions, you can trust that you are in good hands with Holiday. We take pride in using care, efficiency, and knowledge to facilitate an unforgettable trip for all of our guests.

As the only company that abstains from the use of motors on this river and instead choose to row our boats, there is no where else you are guaranteed a pure, natural, noise-less float trip than with Holiday.

Still have questions? Our office team is ready to take your call and answer any questions you may have! Give us a call today and let’s get you on a Colorado River rafting trip!

Featured Review:

“We had the most amazing river trip during HIGH water in Cataract Canyon. Our guides were INCREDIBLE! Brin was especially knowledgeable about the geology and history of Cataract Canyon- from the Ancient Puebloans to John Wesley Powell to today’s Colorado River issues relating to the West’s need for water.

The overall camaraderie, competence, and skill that all the guides possessed made our trip along with the absolutely spectacular scenery. I felt nervous about the high water but had total confidence in the guides. Their joy after successfully running Cataract at 48,000 cfs was infectious and truly enhanced my experience.

The river trip was restorative, peaceful, high energy, and absolutely extraordinary. I cannot wait to return for another trip!”

– Mara and Kevin, Cataract Canyon Trip, July 2023

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The Colorado River is a symbol of the West, but it’s also much more than that. It’s the lifeblood of the desert, the drinking water for millions of people, and a powerful force capable of providing transformative experiences for individuals. Book your trip with Holiday and learn all about the magic in this special river.

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Multi-day packages, see why 2 of 3 people choose the best ottawa river trip and the wilderness tours difference..

Wilderness Tours since 1975 is the #1 raft and kayak resort in Canada. Being the first to start operating on the Ottawa River, we’ve been setting the standard both off and on the water for almost 5 decades.

With a resort full of amenities, see why 2 of 3 people choose the best Ottawa River trip and Wilderness Tours difference as you experience exciting rapids, warm deep water and different channels with different options for intensity levels – The Ottawa River is whitewater perfection.

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Resort Package

Ages: 13+ | 90 lbs Minimum

Save up to 20% on: 1 Day Rafting | 1 Resort Day 5 Meals 2 Days | 2 Nights Camping Starting at $279 per person

Gentle Family Resort Package

Ages: 5+ | 50 lbs Minimum Save up to 35% on: 1 Day Rafting | 1 Resort Day 6 Meals 2 Days | 2 Nights Camping Starting at $269 per person Book Now

Adult Adventure Week

Ages: 13+ | 90 lbs Minimum Save up to 40% on: 5 Adventure Filled Days 15 Meals 5 Days | 5 Nights Camping Starting at $1099 per person Book Now

Getaway Package

Ages: 5+ | 50 lbs Minimum Save up to 42% on: 2 Day Rafting 5 Meals 2 Days | 2 Nights Camping Starting at $299 per person Book Now

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Ages: 5+ | 50 lbs Minimum Save up to 43% on: 2 Day Rafting 6 Meals 2 Days | 2 Nights Camping Starting at $269 per person Book Now

Family Adventure Camp

Ages: 5+ | 50 lbs Minimum Save up to 45% on: 5 Adventure Filled Days 15 Meals 5 Days | 5 Nights Camping Starting at $819 per person Book Now

Long Weekender Getaway

Ages: 13+ | 90 lbs Minimum Save up to 38% on: 2 Days Rafting | 1 Resort Day 7 Meals 3 Days | 3 Nights Camping Starting at $353 per person Book Now

Family High Adventure Combo

Ages: 5+ | 50 lbs Minimum Save up to 20% on: 2 Day Rafting | 1 Resort Day  6 Meals 2 Days | 2 Nights Camping Starting at $299 per person Book Now

Where All-Inclusive Meets Adventure

The Ottawa River’s multiple, parallel, whitewater-filled channels separate and rejoin as they descend nearly 10km through the National Whitewater Park to our beachfront resort. Join us this season and experience how magical it feels to Paddle Home .

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• American River Rafting
• HALF DAY RAFTING
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Day Trip South Fork Whole River

• Where: Chili Bar to Salmon Falls on Folsom Lake
• Meeting time: 8:30 AM in Coloma
• Trip length: 21 Miles
• Class/Level: II - III
• Departing time: 9:00 AM Daily
• Ending time: 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM
• Time on water: 7 hours with lunch
• Lunch: Riverside Lunch Included
• Camping: Camp one night for FREE
• Age restrictions: Ages 6 and older

Trip Description and Brief Itinerary

Are you looking for a super full day of whitewater rafting on a river that’s just packed with fun, excitement, and thrills? Then this is the trip for you! You’ll raft the entire 21-mile length of the legendary South Fork of the American River from Chili Bar Dam to Folsom Lake. Rafting the South Fork of the American is one of the country’s most popular rafting trips and is quite the experience.

Little do people know that the South Fork of the American River changed world history in 1848 when California’s first gold was discovered in its riverbed at an old logging site at Sutter’s Mill. This discovery of gold triggered the California Gold Rush of 1849 , often considered the largest human migration for a single purpose since the Crusades. Unfortunately, once the easily found gold was taken away, the miners made an absolute mess of the natural surroundings with their hydraulic pumps, causing people downstream to grumble. Pretty soon the mining operations were shut down, and today you can still find huge trenches created by the miners some 150 years ago.

The South Fork has shaped our entire region and is still one of the most popular rafting trips in America. James Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park brings California’s history to life and our deluxe campground is located smack in the middle of it all! So come stay with us and camp the night prior to your South Fork rafting trip for free at our deluxe campground or arrive the morning of your trip by 8:30 AM.

If you choose to stay with us the night before, our shuttle will drive you to the top of the South Fork to the Chili Bar put-in. After a last-minute restroom break, you will get geared up, attend a detailed safety talk, and then you’re off on the water. The fun starts right off the bat. Paddle your way through rapids such as Meat Grinder, Triple Threat, and the famous Troublemaker. Halfway down you’ll take a break for a yummy and hearty lunch served riverside. Then you’ll head downstream to the Gorge, a canyon filled with rapids such as Fowlers Rock, Satan’s Cesspool, Bouncing Rock, and Hospital Bar. After the last rapid our Honda Jet Ski will tow the rafts across Folsom Lake to the take-out at Salmon Falls. Ice-cold beverages will be provided and our shuttle will take you back to the deluxe campground between 4:30 and 5:30 PM.

Important Trip Details

The South Fork Whole River rafting trip is offered every day of the week departing from our River Camp in Coloma. Click for Directions .

This South Fork rafting trip leaves our River Camp at 9:00 AM so it’s imperative that you arrive by 8:30 AM at the latest. You can also choose to camp with us for Free the night before. Additional nights of camping and meals are available before or after your trip with advanced reservation only. Please call 1-800-825-3205 or email us for details.

Get ready for a fun filled day rafting the South Fork of the American River! Check out our Equipment List for items you will need for your rafting trip as well as Maps and Directions to our River Camp .

Rafting Adventures

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