Warm spring weather is on the way, so it is the ideal time to get out of the house and enjoy the beauty of nature. The ultimate nature destination is the Grand Canyon, and the ideal way to see it is by booking one of the unique raft tours. I’ve rounded up two of the best.
Setting Off On Your Adventure
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the place to find the best float tours. The tours depart from the airport in Tusayan, which is a small city by the gates of the Grand Canyon National Park.
If you want to book a comprehensive tour package, then you should include the bus tour that runs from the South Rim to the city of Page, Arizona. This three hour bus ride will take you through beautiful country including the Painted Desert and the Little Colorado River Gorge.
The bus drops you off at the Glen Canyon Dam in Page, where your raft trip begins. These rafts are designed for strength and stability, and each holds up to 19 people.
The Float Trip
You’ll be treated to many beautiful sights as you glide down the river. You’ll cover 15.5 miles of river and see many interesting landmarks as the canyon towers above you. You’ll even go right around Horseshoe Bend as you look up at 300-foot canyon walls.
Many beautiful sights await on one of these tours, including tranquil beaches (you’ll have lunch at one of them), and the opportunity to see ancient Indian rock art.
Of course you couldn’t spend time on a rafting tour without wanting to hop in to the inviting blue-green waters, so you’ll be glad to know that swimming is encouraged at various stops during the float. So be sure to dress appropriately since you’ll probably get wet, and don’t forget sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen. As summer draws near, the temperatures at the base of the canyon climb close to 100 degrees, so you’ll welcome a refreshing dip in cool, clear waters.
Don’t Forget Souvenirs
When your float draws to a close, a tour bus will be there to take you back to the rim, and fortunately, the bus is climate controlled for complete comfort in all kinds of weather. You’ll also have the opportunity to browse the Indian handicrafts and souvenirs on offer at the Cameron Trading Post.
An Optional Upgrade
While the tour described above is an experience to remember, you can make it even better by adding on an air tour of the National Park. Instead of taking the bus tour to Page, you’ll take an air tour instead and pass over the Colorado River Confluence, Imperial Point, and the Desert Watchtower.
Then, after you land at the Page airport, you’ll hop on a jeep, so you can ride through Antelope Canyon on your way to Glen Canyon Dam to begin your raft tour. If you have some extra money in your sightseeing budget, the second option is highly recommended.
To Wrap Up
I’d love to see everybody take in the sights at the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder, and rafting along it’s floor is an experience you won’t have anywhere else on the planet. Plus, the float tour comes with a bus or air tour too, so you get a fantastic comprehensive excursion.
These float trips stay on smooth waters, so there are no rapids or swift currents to pose any dangers, and for that reason, you can bring kids as young as four. Active seniors, parents, and children can all enjoy the beauty of nature on these fun-filled, scenic tours.
