These float trips stay away from whitewater so they are perfect for everyone, even kids as young as four. The rafts cover the portion of the river that has only smooth waters.
The raft trips in the Grand Canyon are exciting full day experiences. Float tours are scheduled every day from March through November, including the holiday weekend. They begin at about 6 a.m., departing from Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCA) at Tusayan, Arizona (just outside the main gates at the South Rim) and Las Vegas.
Tours Of The South Rim
You can choose from two tours to the South Rim. The standard tour starts off with a bus ride from GCA to Page, AZ. From there you'll go to the base of Glen Canyon Dam. That is where your pontoon boat awaits.
The deluxe option takes you from GCA to the Page Municipal Airport in a flight that lasts about 45 minutes. From there you'll hop into a Jeep for a terrific 4x4 tour of the Slot Canyons at Antelope Canyon. Then you head over to the Glen Canyon Dam and meet up with the pontoon boat that will take you on your river tour.
Both versions treat you to a 15 mile glide through the canyon's magnificence. You'll see some truly spectacular scenery, including Horseshoe Bend (picture red sandstone cliffs against beautiful turquoise water). The trip is over when you arrive at historic Lee's Ferry.
Las Vegas Raft Tours
These float tours are favorites with travelers during the holiday weekend. You start off by taking a helicopter ride to Grand Canyon West from Vegas. The helicopter descends to the canyon floor where you hop on a raft and take an eleven mile scenic float down the Colorado River. Allow about ten hours to complete this trip.
More Details
The West Rim of the Grand Canyon is the only place in the National Park where helicopters are allowed to flow below the rim. After descending 3,500 feet to the bottom, you'll disembark next to the Colorado!
The rafting portion of the tour begins at the base of mighty Hoover Dam, towering over 700 feet above you. You'll cruise through beautiful Black Canyon in a 19 passenger rubberized pontoon boat until you reach the end of the line at Willow Beach, Arizona.
Be Prepared
You'll be outdoors all day, so come prepared. The inner canyon can get hot during summer. Throw some extra clothes and sunscreen in a waterproof bag and bring it along. Wear a long sleeved shirt, sunglasses and a hat.
Features included in your rafting tour package include the services of an educational and entertaining river guide, drinks, lunch, equipment, fees, and taxes. I'd recommend taking one to any traveler. You won't have to worry about what to do over the holiday, these tours let you lose yourself in the experience.
To Summarize
The holiday is on Monday, May 27 this year. Most folks will treat it as a three day weekend. The Grand Canyon is a popular holiday destination, and you'll have plenty of competition for seats on a rafting tour. I strongly recommend booking in advance. It is a good idea to book your tour online since it is convenient and qualifies you for the steep discount. You'll get a terrific Internet discount provided you complete your purchase online!
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