subject: Selecting The Top Grand Canyon Water Rafting Tours [print this page] While traveling to some locations can be very exciting, they often lack in the number of activities they can offer. When you head on out to the Grand Canyon, you will find that you never run out of things to do, especially when you take note of the Grand Canyon water rafting tours you can find.
When people hear about rafting in the Grand Canyon, they instantly think of whitewater rafting. But those types of adventures last anywhere from 3 to twenty days. For many of us, this is a long time or too costly. The alternative? One-day smooth water float tours, which gently wind down the Colorado River making stops for going swimming and easy strolls into hidden side canyons.
While researching white water rafting trips, make sure you take into consideration your actual fitness level along with the time you have available. Concerned? Then a one-day Grand Canyon smooth water float tour might be right up your alley. Those looking for calmer water, including families with kids four and older and senior citizens, will find these tours to be the perfect choice.
Two of the best Grand Canyon smooth water float tours begin at the South Rim. The first one starts out with a bus trip from Grand Canyon National Park Airport to Page, Arizona, passing through a two-mile tunnel to end at the base of Glen Canyon Dam. The three-hour float tour in a motorized pontoon boat begins at the dam's docks and ends at Lee's Ferry.
The other popular choice you will have for this Grand Canyon water rafting trip will have you taking a plane to Page's municipal airport from the South Rim of the Canyon. At this point, you will be taken by 4x4 as you begin to explore the beautiful Antelope Valley. After passing through the same tunnel as the other tour, the river portion of the tour begins at the base of Glen Canyon Dam.
There is no denying that floating down the Colorado River will be a breathtaking experience. You'll pass by red sandstone cliffs, including those at spectacular Horseshoe Bend. Just a bit down the river, you will reach a beach and take a little walk to experience the petroglyphs of the ancient Indians. During your trip, you will experience even more of the natural beauty of the area.
One of the best things about smooth water experience is that they are going to be reasonably priced as they include professional drivers, river guides and even your lunch and transportation back to the South Rim. While going to the South Rim, you will have a chance to see the Painted Desert and the Navajo Reservation. Most of these excursions give you the opportunity to shop for authentic Native American handicrafts by stopping at the Cameron Trading Post.
Most of the day tours are going to begin at 7 AM. One thing that isn't included is Shuttle Service and you will need to ensure you have transportation to the airfield located at Tusayan, Arizona. You will note that since Tusayan is only a ten minute journey from the hotels of Grand Canyon Village, which makes getting there easy.
Swimming during these float trips isn't just allowed, it's encouraged. On this tour, it is recommended that you have a fresh set of clothes, towel, hat, sneakers and sandals to wear.
Whitewater rafting gets most of the publicity when it comes to adventure activities at the Grand Canyon, but most people actually prefer a more relaxing river experience. One-day smooth-water float trips fill this need perfectly. Along with calmer waters, you will also have the chance to experience the riverbanks. There is no denying that those with active children will find that these trips will keep them interested.
