The Ultimate
Family Vacation

Father and son gazing down on the canyon

Why Rafting the Grand Canyon is the Best Family Vacation (Ever)

Are you tired of the same old family vacations? Are you looking for a family vacation with more substance, unlike any theme park or beach vacation, where you don’t feel like just another tourist? Are you ready for something truly extraordinary? Imagine exploring one of the world's natural wonders, the Grand Canyon, from a perspective most people never experience. This family vacation combines horseback riding, hiking, a helicopter ride, and a 3-day all-inclusive journey on the Colorado River - all with easy access in and out of Las Vegas.

See the full Grand Canyon Family Vacation itinerary

Why a Grand Canyon Family Vacation is a Wonderful Experience

The Grand Canyon is more than just a stunning landscape—it's a place where families can connect with nature and with each other in a way that's hard to find anywhere else. Picture your family marveling at the towering canyon walls from the heart of the Colorado River. While millions flock to the Grand Canyon's rim each year, only a lucky few witness its grandeur from the inside out. With Western River Expeditions' all-inclusive Grand Canyon rafting trips, you can ditch the crowds and create memories your family will cherish forever. From exhilarating side hikes and waterfalls to peaceful moments watching the sunset together, exploring the Grand Canyon by raft offers something for everyone, making it the perfect adventure for families.

Focus on Fun, Not Logistics: Forget the hassle of planning and the hours spent researching routes, hotels, activities, and logistics. Fly to Vegas, show up with your duffle bag, and we'll handle the rest. Western River Expeditions handles everything, from permits and meals to equipment and guides. Be a superhero when you tell your family they will travel by bus, jetboat, plane, and helicopter. Whether it’s rafting, hiking, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, every moment of this trip is designed to be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Favorite Family Trip!

This trip was one of our favorite family trips of all time! We bonded as a family because we were all together outdoors, unplugged completely from the world. We were in a better position to have quality time and conversations together, and the fact that I didn't have to do the meal prep, but instead could spend more time with my husband and kids, made such a dramatic difference.

Kimberly - Utah

Why Families Choose Western River Expeditions

The 4-day rafting trip promises an unforgettable experience, perfect for creating lasting memories with your family. Escape the ordinary and experience an unparalleled all-inclusive adventure through the heart of the Grand Canyon!

These trips sell out fast every year. Book your Grand Canyon Family Vacation today!

Day 1: The Adventure Begins »

Scenic Plane Ride to the Grand Canyon:
Start your adventure in style with a scenic plane ride from Las Vegas over Lake Mead to the Bar 10 Ranch on the canyon rim. This ride offers a bird's-eye view of the Grand Canyon's vastness.
Horseback Riding and ATV Tour:
Explore the rugged terrain surrounding the canyon, giving your family a taste of the Wild West and exclusive views of the Grand Canyon without thousands of tourists.
Skeet Shooting & Western Entertainment:
Enjoy a fun-filled evening with activities that captivate both young and old and immerse you in the Western atmosphere.
Overnight in a Covered Wagon: End the day with a unique lodging experience, sleeping in a comfortable, authentic covered wagon or sleep inside the ranch.

Days 2-4: Discover the Grand Canyon »

Helicopter Ride into the Canyon:
Begin your adventure with a dramatic helicopter ride into the canyon with a riverside landing. Witness the true scale and majesty of the canyon walls as you descend down to the Colorado River with breathtaking aerial views you won't forget.
3 Days and 2 Nights on the Colorado River:
Experience world-class rapids and bask in the sun-drenched canyon walls. Trade the crowded viewpoints for an immersive journey through the heart of the Grand Canyon. This family rafting trip offers unparalleled access to hidden waterfalls, towering cliffs, and secluded beaches along the Colorado River for adventurers ages 9 to 90.
Jet Boat Ride Out of the Canyon: After three days of rafting, end your adventure with an exhilarating jet boat ride out of the canyon to Lake Mead before being transported back to Las Vegas by bus.

Awesome Family Vacation

The best thing I've ever done! The guides were great and we met so many nice people, in three days we were a family. I want my son to do it with his two boys. This is an awesome family vacation!

Muriel - Massachussetts

Frequently Asked Questions about a Grand Canyon Family Vacation

What makes rafting the Grand Canyon a great family vacation?

Rafting the Grand Canyon offers a unique adventure that combines thrilling activities like rafting, hiking, and helicopter rides with breathtaking scenery. It’s an all-inclusive experience where families can bond, explore nature, and make memories that last a lifetime.

How long is the Grand Canyon family rafting trip?

The trip lasts 4 days, starting with a scenic flight from Las Vegas, a night at the Bar 10 ranch, followed by a helicopter ride into the canyon, and 3 days rafting on the Colorado River. You’ll enjoy exciting activities and relax in the beauty of the canyon.

Is this trip suitable for kids?

Absolutley, this trip is designed for families, and children aged 9 and up can participate. The activities are varied, from exciting rafting to calm moments on the water, playing on the camp beaches, and exploring on hikes. This trip offers something for all ages.

What’s included in the Grand Canyon family rafting trip?

The trip is all-inclusive! It covers transportation from the Las Vegas Marriott, all meals on the river, camping and rafting equipment, the helicopter ride into the canyon, and a night at the Bar 10 ranch. You only need to pack your essentials and show up.

What’s the itinerary like for the Grand Canyon family vacation?

The trip starts with a scenic plane ride over the Grand Canyon, followed by an afternoon of horseback riding, an optional ATV tour, and a night at the Bar 10 ranch. Days 2-4 feature a helicopter descent into the canyon, 3 days rafting on the Colorado River, and a jet boat ride to finish.

How do I get to the Grand Canyon for this trip?

The adventure begins at the Las Vegas Mariott. A bus will pick you up the morning of your trip and take you to the boulder city airport where you’ll board a scenic flight over the Grand Canyon. No need to worry about logistics—everything from permits to transportation is handled by Western River Expeditions.

What is the best time to go on this trip?

The best time for a Grand Canyon family vacation is typically from May to September, when the weather is warm, making it ideal for rafting and exploring the canyon..

What should I pack for the trip?

Pack light! Essentials include a duffle bag with clothing suitable for both warm and cool weather, swimwear, sunscreen, and personal items. More details can be found here

Are there any other family-friendly activities in the Grand Canyon?

Yes! Besides rafting, popular family-friendly activities include the Grand Canyon Railway, South Rim Mule Rides, the Skywalk, and the Bright Angel Trail hike. These options are perfect for families who want to experience the canyon from different angles.

What if I have more questions about this trip?

Give one of our knowledgeable team members a call at (866) 904-1160 from Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Mountain Time. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about this or any other trip we offer.

Arizona