Frequently Asked Questions »

During the pre-trip planning process, we often receive a number of questions related to choosing which trip is best for you, the nature of a river trip, what to expect during the trip, and what degree of physical conditioning is required for a river trip. While we have found that we can accommodate a wide range of abilities on all of our rafting trips, the better prepared you are, the more you will enjoy yourself.

A. After meeting your guides you will be given a trip orientation that will include how and where you can sit on the rafts, how to hold on, and safety precautions while on the river.

A typical day will include rafting for a few hours at a time, stopping for scenic side-canyon hikes, bathroom breaks, lunch and possible swimming opportunities. Visiting with new-found friends and learning river lore and geology from our well-trained guides adds to the enjoyment of each day.

After a full day of learning and fun we arrive in camp. Guests will be allowed to find their favorite campsite and then return to the rafts for the famous “fireline” - the way we load and unload rafts. Your help in passing the gear off the boat is greatly appreciated, however if you have physical restrictions or limitations that would prohibit you from participating you are not required to help.

The first evening in camp, the guides will give a demonstration on how to easily assemble the cots and tents and will be available to help you if you need additional assistance. Western River provides cots, tents, sleeping bags, sheets, camp chair and water-proof gear bags for all guests. You’ll have no need to worry about bringing any of your own camping equipment.

While you relax at the river’s edge, your guides will prepare dinner. Every night is different, but the menu may include items such as grilled chicken breast, steak with sauteed onions, pasta or fresh fish.

At night, whether you choose to sleep in your tent or under the vast canopy of stars, the fresh night air and the rhythm of the river will lull you to sleep.

Each morning, your guides will prepare a delicious breakfast. You’ll have a chance to enjoy eating before returning to your campsite to take down your tent and cot and pack up your belongings in your dry bag. After bringing your bag down to the boats, guests participate in the fireline once again and you are off on another fun-filled day of adventure.

While a river trip is a participatory experience, the rewards are endless. The setting and pace of a Western River rafting trip gives you something you don’t find in other vacations. On a rafting trip, you’ll find the absolute escape from the hectic world around us – completely free of distractions. You’ll eliminate the constant decisions about where to go, what to do, and where to eat each day of your vacation. On a rafting trip, you’ll experience the pinnacle of relaxation as you drift over tranquil pools of water under the shadows of towering rock formations, the exhilaration and thrill of rolling waves and crashing whitewater, the exploration of seldom-seen natural wonders and Native American history, the peaceful moments of reflection as you gaze up at the star-studded sky, and the fresh feeling of renewal as the morning sun slowly filters through winding canyons. All this provides an indescribable sense of belonging. A sense of oneness with yourself and those around you. A sense of adventure, reflection and renewal. A time to hear your own heart beat. On a Western River Expedition you will quickly discover why so many are calling this “the best vacation of their lives.”

A. All times are exciting. In the spring and early summer the water is generally higher and faster and you'll see wonderful wildflowers. The weather can definitely be cooler so you'll want to bring appropriate clothing. In summer, the days are warmer and weather is more predictable. In late summer/early fall, there is a good chance of seeing wildlife and autumn color.
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A. Our primary concern is participant safety. The nature of an outdoor adventure involves some physical exertion and also possible exposure to weather conditions that can fluctuate greatly due to heat, sun, wind, or rain. Although we do have experience accommodating persons with a wide range of physical challenges, disabilities, or medical and health conditions, we have found that in some people the fact of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease, can create additional hardship that diminishes the suitability or enjoyment of this type of vacation. Please consider these conditions in making your choice of river adventures. Please check with your physician prior to your trip if you have any medical or health condition or if you are taking any medications, and then notify us of how we can better help you with these conditions. In general, participants will need to meet the following physical requirements:

• Fit into a Class 5 Life Jacket (maximum chest size 52”) required by the National Park Service.
• Securely grip ropes provided for handholds while running the rapids
• Climb on and off the rafts. Depending on type of raft this could be as much as a 2-3-foot reach.
• Ability to navigate uneven terrain on hikes and in camp.
• Carry your own dry bag which will include your 20-pound duffle bag along with the sleeping bag and ground cover we provide.

Our primary concern is for you and your fellow guests to have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. If you are concerned about any of these requirements, please call our friendly staff to further discuss which trip is right for you. Our Acknowledgement of Risk Form will more fully describe some of the inherent risks involved in these activities. We look forward to having you join us on the adventure of a lifetime.

A. Rivers run higher during the spring run-off and settle down toward the end of the summer (except for the Colorado through the Grand Canyon where its flow is regulated by Glen Canyon Dam). Western matches rafts to water levels to maximize excitement and safety.
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A. Everything. For comfort on the river, you'll want to be prepared for all kinds of weather. In the river ecosystems, weather can fluctuate from lows in the 40s to highs around 105 degrees. Spring and fall day-time temperatures usually range between 70 and 85 degrees, with June through August hitting peak hot weather. Wind and rain are common, but generally storms pass quickly. Storms can appear and disappear in no time, so even in summer, a rain suit is essential on the river. We highly recommend the two-piece rain suit found at Red Rock Outfitters.
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A. In keeping with Western's reputation for providing the most deluxe trips on the river, top-flight camping gear is provided on all trips. High quality equipment includes a sleeping bag, comfortable folding cot, ground cloth, tent, eating utensils, dry bag and personal storage box. Our camps are set on sandy beaches along the rivers where guests roll out their sleeping bags on cots, pitch tents if they wish, or sleep under the stars. Since getting back to nature is part of the attraction of river trips, we are guided by the motto "Take only pictures, leave only footprints," so we make every effort to keep the land pristine. See more information on camping »
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A. You're not alone in wondering about toilet facilities. Many of our guests are reluctant because of modesty or uncertainty. Often it helps to remember that everyone on the trip shares this issue, so you're in good company. But perhaps a few facts will "relieve" your concerns. Western uses a "port a-potty" system that is set up each day in a secluded location that assures privacy. This is essentially a toilet without the fancy plumbing and is available from the time you pull into camp each afternoon until you leave camp the next day. Along with the toilet, a system to wash your hands with fresh water will be available.

During the day, liquid waste goes in the river by simply wading into the water. For solid waste, our guides will make a day-use toilet available. If you have any other questions or concerns, please call our friendly reservation staff - you're not alone.
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A. If you're concerned about your menstrual period, come prepared for it. We recommend that you bring some sandwich size zip-lock bags. They are very useful for disposal during the day while you are hiking or on the river and can be disposed of in trash containers at camp. (Hint for tampon users: "o.b." brand are 1/3 the size of regular tampons, tuck discreetly into pockets and have less paper wrapping.) Together with our toilet facility, Western will have additional tampons and pads available.
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A. In most years, insects are of little concern on the river, but a little bug repellant is a good idea. We seldom see snakes on our trips because they generally stay away from campsites... they don't like us any better than we like them.
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A. Water and lemonade are available in unlimited supply at all times, and juice, coffee and tea are served with breakfast. If you enjoy soda pop, liquor or beer, bring them with you. On trips under 4 days, each guest can bring a half case of pop or beer. On longer trips, up to a case per person is the guideline. Liquor or wine should be carried in plastic bottles.
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A. All times are exciting. In the spring and early summer the water is generally higher and faster and you'll see wonderful wildflowers. The weather can definitely be cooler. In summer, the days are warmer and weather is more predictable. In late summer/early fall, there is a good chance of seeing wildlife and autumn color.
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It's important to be prepared for your rafting trip. You may encounter all types of weather and conditions. Planning ahead and having the proper gear will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable river rafting experience. Through several decades of experience on the river, Western knows what clothing and gear will keep you smiling every second of your adventure. For your convenience, you can find all these items online with Western’s retail division, Red Rock Outfitters.
Gear on the River
Duffle Bag All of your personal items should be packed into a soft-sided duffle bag approximately 12” x 13” x 24” in size. Due to aircraft weight allowances and raft space, please limit your gear to 20 pounds, not including beverages (see note on next page regarding beverages).
Dry Bag Upon arrival to the river’s edge, you will be provided a water-resistant day bag (approximately 6” x 12”). In this day bag, you will want to put those items you wish to access during the day (rain gear, camera, medications, sun block, lip balm, river guidebook, etc). We recommend packing these items in a simple plastic grocery sack inside your duffle for easy transfer to your day bag at the launch site.
Gear Bag Also upon arrival at the launch site of your trip, you will receive a water resistant gear bag. This bag will contain your sleeping bag, sheet and ground tarp. You will put your duffle bag inside this bag, roll the top down and clip it securely to avoid getting your personal gear wet. Your personal gear bag will be available at camp each night of your trip.

Sample Clothing Check List

This list will vary by trip. Please refer to the packing list for your trip.

A: Western's online store, Red Rock Outfitters contains several excellent recommendations for guidebooks, maps and travel information throughout the Southwest.

A. Absolutely! A waterproof digital camera with extra batteries and memory cards is recommended (Note: online post-trip photo sharing will be available for those with digital images. You will be given access information via email. Please ensure we have your accurate email address on file.) If you don't have a waterproof camera, you can bring a regular camera or a disposable waterproof camera. You'll be able to store your camera in your day bag.
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