FAQ Page

Grand Canyon Trip FAQ Page

Do you do river trips?

No (at least not yet)

Can you recommend a river outfitter?

Not really. I've never been on a commercial river trip (only private trips). I have heard good things about several companies but you really need to investigate this yourself. Try my links page!

What are my options for taking a trip?

There are commercial trips and private trips. Commercial trips are offered by many rafting companies. Their trips run from a few days to a couple of weeks. Commercial trips are very expensive but the guides are very experienced and all of the planning is done by the rafting company.

The National Park Service offers only about 260 private (non-commercial) trips every year. These trips are strictly non-profit. One must apply and re-apply every year to stay on a waiting list. The current waiting list is about 12 years long. Any one on the waiting list can take the place of a scheduled trip which cancels. Each private trip is limited to 16 people. The cost can be very cheap but experience with rafting big water is required.

There are lots of rules concerning private trips such as duration, the use of motorized rigs, the use of fires, etc. Check out the Grand Canyon NPS Expanded Site for rules and regulations.

Is the trip dangerous?

The danger lies in being so isolated from civilization. A minor accident could turn tragic if not dealt with quickly. One might think that people are hurt more in the water but this is not true. Most accidents occur on shore.

The only semi-civilized area is at Phantom Ranch. Some groups bring radios but they only work when there is a direct line of sight between both parties. Signaling or radioing an overhead commercial aircraft is sometimes the only way to get contact with the outside world if help is required.

Because of the difficulties of a rescue within the canyon, please always remember, "Safety First!"

What do I bring on a trip?

Check out this page!

What is the best time of year to go down the river?

I can only guess at this since I have not been down the river enough times. I have to think that April-May and September are good months. These time periods avoid the crowded and hot summer months. August is the rainy month in the southwest desert areas. I actually like March because flowers are beginning to bloom, however the weather is very unpredictable. One thing is for certain ... the water is cold any time of year.

How are the accommodations?

I happen to like sleeping outdoors and watching the shooting stars.

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