"We have an unknown distance to run, an unknown river yet to explore. What falls there are, we know not; what rocks beset the channel, we know not; what walls rise over the river, we know not." These were the sentiments of Major John Wesley Powell during his 1867 river exploration adventure of a lifetime. Modern rafters frequently have similar feelings as they launch their rafts at Lee's Ferry.
What follows for the non-commercial boater is usually sixteen to eighteen days and 225 miles of thrilling class 4-5 whitewater featuring daily hikes to uniquely different side canyon and riverside attractions. Camps on pristine beaches and scrumptious meals set the tone for undoubtedly the world's best whitewater adventure. The thrill of a pool and drop river with sixty occasionally heart-stopping rapids eventually yields to the greater feeling of awe engendered from being surrounded by one of the seven wonders of the world
Since it's impossible to see it all in 16 days, every Grand Canyon trip is truly different. Each day a succession of historical stops (Loper's boat, Beamer's cabin, Bass Camp), geologic marvels (great unconformity), caves, waterfalls, fossils, Anasazi artifacts (granaries, hand prints, & pot shards) and other attractions await you. You'll swim in the turquoise blue waters of the Little Colorado and Havasu Creek; marvel at the advance and recession of the high canyon walls; sleep under brilliant starscapes; and enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets. If you are lucky and they don't see you first, you may see bighorn sheep, pink rattlesnakes, and maybe even an elusive ringtail cat.
Participants usually join the group for the whole trip or hike in or out at Phantom Ranch. Phantom Ranch is 90 miles (6-7 days) below the Lee's Ferry put-in and 135 miles (8-10 days) from the Diamond Creek take-out. This trip is rated leisurely to moderate (L/M) since the arduous hikes are optional.
Originates @ Phoenix, AZ.
South Canyon
Olo Canyon in '83
