Full Grand Canyon: Colorado River Rafting Trips
The Colorado River reveals its greatest treasures for those who have the time to white water raft the full length of Grand Canyon.
Colorado River Rafting Expedition
All Full Grand Canyon Colorado River rafting trips begin at Lees Ferry and travel through the length of Grand Canyon for anywhere from 188 to 280 miles depending on the tour. The best rafting trip on the Colorado River, it allows time to explore the river’s most famous attractions. This includes Redwall Cavern, the Little Colorado, Elves Chasm, Deer Creek Falls and Havasu Creek. Raft over 100 mighty rapids, including the largest, Lava Falls.
Each day is different and full; a mix of rapids and smooth water, hikes to hidden canyons and archaeological sites. Camp out on beaches in the bottom of the Grand Canyon under a blanket of stars. After the trip, you will be transported to the designated ending point depending on the tour you select. Trips are all-inclusive affairs.
No Mandatory Hike
There is no requirement to do the hike in or out on a Full Grand Canyon rafting trip, making this trip more accessible.
Where to Start
Not sure what we mean by a mandatory hike or motorized versus non-motorized trips. Or want to learn about shorter Colorado River rafting trips, check out our Grand Canyon rafting overview page or give us a call. We’ll answer your questions and guide you through the process to help you find your perfect Colorado river rafting trip at the same price you would get directly from the outfitter.
$3,300 - $7,000 per person
Full Canyon
Length: Motor Trips 6 – 10 days
Oar Trips 11 – 18 days
Price: Motor Trips $3300 – $4400
Oar Trips $4820 – $7000
Season: April – October
Min. Age: Motor Trips 8 years
Oar Trips 12 years
Begin: Lees Ferry
End: Whitmore Wash (mile 188), Diamond Creek (mile 225), Pearce Ferry (mile 280)
Colorado River Rafting Details
Beginnings
Depending on outfitter and trip selected, Full Grand Canyon rafting trips initially meet in Flagstaff, AZ; Page, AZ; Marble Canyon, AZ; or Las Vegas, NV. Transportation from the start city to Lees Ferry is provided by the outfitter.
Endings
Depending on outfitter and trip selected, Full Grand Canyon Colorado River rafting trips may end (take out) at either at either: Whitmore Wash (mile 188 – By Helicopter), Diamond Creek (mile 225) or Pearce Ferry (mile 280). Transportation from the river take-out back to the start city is typically provided by the outfitter.
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Weather
April and May have cooler temperatures, which require extra layers, but allow for longer hikes while the wildflowers are in bloom. Spring can bring strong winds. June through August are the hottest and busiest months to raft Grand Canyon with temperatures ranging 95-115°F. Monsoon season starts in July, bringing afternoon clouds and rain showers to cool things off. As the rafting season winds down in September and October, you can expect cooler weather, longer hikes and shorter days. See current Grand Canyon weather.
River Crafts
Your boat will depend on the outfitter and the type of trip you select. The most common are the motor rafts, which carry around 15 people. Human-powered oar rafts can carry up to 5 people plus a guide who maneuvers the boat with a pair of oars. Paddle rafts have 6 people paddling and a guide in back steering and calling commands. The best trip options for those who wish to have a more active role are hybrid (oar and paddle rafts) or all-paddle. Read our blog post for more information about the types of whitewater rafts on the Colorado River.
Group Size
Oar trips will have 5 to 7 boats, with no more than 22 participants in the group. Motor trips will have 1 to 2 boats with no more than 28 participants in the group.
Camp Life
Whether you’re an experienced camper or it’s your first time under the stars, our outfitters are specialists in facilitating an enjoyable and relaxing camping experience. You will be provided a full sleep kit with sleeping bag, inflatable pad and ground tarp. Tents are available in case of rain, and some outfitters provide cots and camp chairs for additional comfort. Everyone participates in setting up and breaking down camp. A clean, private camp toilet is set up first thing upon arrival at camp and it is the last thing to be dismantled the next morning.
Meals
One thing is certain Grand Canyon rafting trips: there will be plenty of food! Morning starts with a full, hearty breakfast with cowboy coffee gets the day going. A riverside picnic sets the scene for lunch. Dinners can be anything from a New York steak, grilled filet of salmon, or a Mexican feast followed by a hot, Dutch oven dessert. There are plenty of snacks and beverages offered throughout the day. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but you are welcome to bring your own. With advance notice, outfitters are able to accommodate for special dietary requirements.
Price Includes
All camping and river-related safety equipment. Plenty of fresh food, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks. Transportation to Lees Ferry. Depending on the outfitter and trip selected, additional transportation may be included. See a sample packing list to get an idea of the gear you will need.
Grand Canyon Colorado River Experts
Our team has been booking rafting trips in Grand Canyon for 30 years with all 16 Grand Canyon outfitters. While you can reach out to all the outfitters to see which has the date, space and trip type you want, you can also call or email us. We can do that work for you and the cost is guaranteed to be the same as booking your trip directly with an outfitter.
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Trip Reviews
Rivers and Oceans made the process of finding just the right trip so easy!
I had a great time
Thanks to Rivers & Oceans services for providing the best experience of a lifetime for me, my kids and my friends.
The trip of a lifetime!
Breath taking views. Josh was attentive to everyone, entertaining and knowledgeable. I felt safe both on and off the river, including during some of the more steep hikes. JP the other guide in the lead boat was excellent too as was Luke the newest member to the crew. They were all hard working and took care of everything, plus more. They had some nice bonus surprises at the end of our 7 day trip.
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