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Grand Canyon 6 OR 7 Day

Grand Canyon 6 OR 7 Day Travel Planning

  • BEGINS: [See email confirmation for departure time] - Las Vegas OR Marble Canyon
  • TRIP LENGTH: 6-7 days, 188 miles
  • SEASON: April - September
  • MINIMUM AGE: 12
  • FEATURING: Grand Canyon National Park, Marble Canyon
  • RAFTING: Class III-V whitewater combined with calm stretches
  • BOAT TYPE: Western's J-Rig (motorized)
  • HIKING: Short walks & longer hikes over moderate terrain (all optional)
  • CAMPING: Cots, tents, sleeping bags, sheets, ground tarps, chairs & water-resistant bags are all provided.
  • MEALS: All meals are prepared for you between departure & return
  • TRANSFERS: Bus, plane, and helicopter transfers to/from Colorado River/Las Vegas OR Marble Canyon
  • ENDS: Afternoon - Las Vegas Marriott OR Marble Canyon

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Grand Canyon 6-7 Day Travel Route with Flight from Las Vegas

Map of Flight to Marble Canyon
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Western's J-Rig Raft

Named after Western’s founder, Jack Currey, the “J-Rig” is a patented craft offering the most flexible and comfortable ride on the river. If you’re a thrill seeker, you can sit up front where the waves hit hardest, or ride aft for more protection. There are plenty of calm sections along the river where you can move freely around the boat and trade seating positions throughout the trip.

Western's J-Rig Raft
Packing list for the Grand Canyon 6-7 day trip

Download the Packing List »

Download it, print it, mark it, bring it or recycle it. This is what you need to pack for the river.

Packing List

Packing & Travel Details

  • Bring your duffle, Western provides the rest
  • Extra drinks can be purchased after your morning flight at Marble Canyon Lodge
  • Car keys and other valuables should be checked safely at the hotel along with extra luggage

Items Provided by Western »
  • Transportation to Boulder Terminal from Las Vegas Marriott
  • Charter flight from Las Vegas to Marble Canyon & return from Bar 10 Ranch (extra cost applies)
  • Motor coach return from Boulder Terminal to Las Vegas
  • Professional, licensed guides
  • All meals between trip departure and return
  • All eating utensils and souvenir insulated bottle
  • Unlimited water and lemonade
  • Freshly laundered sleeping bag and sheet
  • Cot (28” x 74”)
  • Tent and ground cover
  • Water-resistant dry bag for sleeping gear and personal duffle bag
  • Custom rafts
  • US Coastguard approved whitewater life jackets
  • Wilderness First-Aid kit
  • Sanitary Facilities
Things to Bring on the River »

Duffel bag (approx. 12”x13”x24”), packed with personal items outlined on the packing list

Extra drinks, if desired. Water and low-calorie lemonade are available in unlimited quantities on the boats, and in camp. Western does not provide beer, liquor, or soda pop. Each guest may bring one case (24) of additional canned beverages. For guests flying on the charter flight from Las Vegas to Marble Canyon, all beverages other than hard liquors can be purchased after your flight at the Service Station/Convenience Store across the street from the airstrip at Marble Canyon Lodge. Beer and boxed wine are usually available. Hard liquor is not available at the Marble Canyon Lodge, and must be purchased in Las Vegas before your flight. Liquor will be included in the 25 lbs limit per person or there will be $15 charge. TSA regulations require that liquor be under 140 proof and stored in the original container. Glass containers of liquor may be stored in a protected place on the boats, but glass containers of beer and soda are not allowed.

Extra snacks, if desired. (Snacks will be provided during the trip)

Photo ID, a major credit card, and cash for gratuities.

Camera(s) - Phones as cameras in waterproof cases/sleeves (Cell service unavailable)

Medications - Each year a few of our guests traveling on airlines arrive without luggage. With this in mind, we suggest you carry with you medications, prescription glasses, and anything you may not be able to replace the evening before your trip departs.

Things NOT to bring on the River »
  • Car keys can be left at your hotel front desk, or with stored luggage while away
  • Unnecessary electronic devices (game devices for kids, etc.)
  • Valuables such as jewelry, rings, etc.
Extra Luggage

Transfer all your personal clothing and gear which you will need on your rafting trip to a small, lightweight duffle bag. Identify duffle bag with label, and leave any extra suitcases or luggage in your vehicle or at the hotel. Please DO NOT BRING SUITCASES on your river trip. As part of your camping equipment package, we provide a water-resistant bag in which you will place your duffle bag as well as the sleeping bag that we provide.

Gear up with Redrock Outfitters »

Through several decades of experience on the river, Western knows what clothing and gear will keep you smiling every second of your adventure. Specifically, we’ve bundled “The Works” for him, for her and one for gear in general. Get a FREE item with a “Works” purchase. For your convenience, you can order all these items online with Western’s retail division Red Rock Outfitters.

    What to Expect on the Morning of Your Rafting Trip

    • Check out of your accommodations & grab a good breakfast ("Breakfast Go Boxes" provided by Western/Marriott)
    • Meet in the lobby of Las Vegas Marriott (check confirmation sheet for exact departure time)
    • Come dressed and ready to raft (see diagram on Packing List)

    THE DAY BEFORE (in Las Vegas) »
    1. Arrive in Las Vegas at least the day prior to the trip's departure.
    2. Review details in the WHERE/WHEN TO MEET section below.

    NOTE: Book your room on the Western River block as soon as possible. We will alert you by email when the block of rooms are available to book for your given year of travel.

    DAY ONE MORNING Part 1 (leaving Las Vegas) »
    1. Set your alarm to arrive in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel at 4:40 am (Pacific Time).
    2. You should receive a boxed breakfast, provided graciously by the Marriott Hotel.
    3. Under the direction of the bus driver, you will load your duffle, board the bus, and be on your way to the Boulder Municipal Airport by 4:45 am.
    DAY ONE MORNING Part 2 (arriving at Marble Canyon Lodge) »

    NOTE: The Marble Canyon airstrip is located across the highway from the Marble Canyon Lodge.

    1. Flight will arrive at the Marble Canyon Airstrip at approximately 7:30 AM. Your guides will greet you under the pavilion adjacent to that air strip.
    2. Place your duffle in a trailer that the guides will direct you towards.
    3. Purchase last-minute items, soda, beer, etc. at the convenience store across the highway near Marble Canyon Lodge.
    4. Participate in a role call, then load the vans for a quick drive down to the river's edge at Lee's Ferry.
    DAY ONE MORNING Part 3 (Lee's Ferry) »

    NOTE: There will be several rafts prepared by the guides the day before your arrival. Listen carefully as your guides point out which boat(s) are assigned to your group.

    1. Help unload duffle bags and beverages from the trailer.
    2. Identify your bags and beverages.
    3. Bring your duffle to the rubber dry bags lined up in front of your assigned boat(s). Your beverages should be placed on the ground in front of your boat(s).
    4. Separate your day items (camera, sunscreen, rain gear, etc.) from your duffle bag. Place them in the smaller rubber dry bag, and the duffle in the larger dry bag. Your guides will be there to help you.
    Tips for settling in for nights on the river »

    By the evening of your first day, you'll feel a world away from all the instructions and inputs required to get you here. It only gets better as you settle into the rhythm of the river. Below are a few tips, generated by years of input from both guides and guests, aimed at getting you into that rhythm even quicker:

    • First chance you get, relax! You've had a big day! HUGE!
    • Keep your sleeping bag sand-free inside your rubber dry bag until the moment you crawl into bed.
    • Changing out of wet clothes may be your first inclination when you get into camp, but consider that getting wet in the river is the best way to stay cool if it is still hot in the evening. You can always change just before bedtime (in the cover of dark).
    • Sarongs, bedsheets, and/or sleeping bags make great changing rooms. Tents are great for rain, wind, or cooler temperatures.
    • Bathing in the river before sunset is an awesome way to ensure a good night's rest. Even if the river is silt-laden, it feels great to rinse your body of sweat, sunscreen, spilled mustard from lunch, etc. TIP: Using a synthetic loofah sponge and liquid biodegradable soap/shampoo is the very best way to lather up in the insta-drying air in the Grand Canyon.
    • Dip your bedsheet in the river on hot Grand Canyon nights and lay under the wet sheet for natural evaporative cooling on your cot. It may seem strange at first, but it works!
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    WHERE/WHEN TO MEET

    Grand Canyon Las Vegas Marriott

    Meet at Las Vegas Marriott »

    LOCATION:
    325 Convention Center Drive, Las Vegas, NV
    Meet in the lobby of The Las Vegas Marriott

    DEPARTURE: Boarding begins at 4:40 AM and bus departs at 4:45 AM for bus transfer to the Boulder Municipal Airport. A one-hour flight will bring you to Marble Canyon. Picture ID is required for all passengers 18 and older. A grab-and-go breakfast will be provided at the Marriott the morning of your flight.

    RETURN TIME:
    approximately 3:00 PM
    Upon the conclusion of your river expedition, you will board a flight to the Boulder city Terminal. A charter bus will return you to the Las Vegas Marriott.

    NOTE: For those choosing to stay somewhere other than the Las Vegas Marriott, it is your responsibility to arrive at the designated time and place mentioned above.

    LV Marriott & Western River Block Reservations »

    TIP: Plan at least 1 night before and after your trip.

    As a guest of Western River Expeditions, you'll receive preferred room rates and availability at the Marriott. The 2024 rates are $169 for King rooms/ $179 for Two Queen Suites plus taxes and fees (these rates are based on double occupancy). Our blocks are limited and there are no cancellation penalties prior to 72 hours in advance of your stay. Once the block is sold out we cannot guarantee rooms or pricing. Click the link below to make your reservations online as soon as possible.

    If you are unable to reserve using our online link, you may contact Kristy, our specialist at the Marriott, directly at 1-740-332-2888 or direct email- Kristy.Fukuda@marriott.com. Please allow a 72-hour response window for messages. Be sure to mention the Western River Expeditions Block.

    NOTES FROM THE LAS VEGAS MARRIOTT:

    • PARKING: $15 per car/ per day for hotel guests and $25 per car/ per day for non-guests
    • BAGGAGE STORAGE: $10.00 per bag/ per day for hotel guests and $20.00 per bag/ per day for non-guests
    • CANCELLATION & NO-SHOWS: Cancellations within 72 hours of the arrival date and no-shows will be charged 1 night’s room and tax.



    Book Room Now for 2024

    PLEASE NOTE: »

    The Las Vegas Marriott will be undergoing a very well-planned and structured renovation from July 8, 2024- September 1, 2024. Due to the careful thought that has been put into this project, we don't anticipate that it will cause much if any disruption for our guests. The hours of the construction during the specified dates will be from 8 AM- 5 PM, Monday - Friday.

    We do have overflow rooms with limited availability for any concerned guests at the Courtyard Marriott on 3275 Paradise Road, which is approximately a 5-minute walk or a short Taxi/Uber drive to the Las Vegas Marriott. The breakfast and pickup location will remain at the Las Vegas Marriott and it is your responsibility to get yourself there at 4:30 for breakfast pickup, departure is at 4:45 AM.

    If you wish to stay at the Courtyard Marriott the rates for Western guests are $189 for King rooms/ $189 for Two Queen rooms.

    You may reserve this property using this link: Courtyard Rate for Western River Expeditions Guests

    While in Vegas

    The Marriott is near the famous Las Vegas Strip, but away from the chaos. Enjoy either one! Taxi services, Uber or the Monorail are all convenient to the Marriott for transport to/from the hotel.

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    Things to do in Las Vegas

    Las Vegas Pieros

    Piero's Italian Cuisine »

    Assuming you are staying at the Las Vegas Marriott on Convention Center Drive, you can stroll next door to Piero's Italian Cuisine for a surprisingly pleasant dining experience. Unlike virtually everything else in Las Vegas, Piero's doesn't look like much from the outside. Why? Because this is the place where the local big names and celebs from Mick Jagger to Michael Jordan go to enjoy a nice meal, undisturbed. Go inside, eat the cuisine, you'll suddenly see why.

    Las Vegas the Strip

    Cirque du Las Vegas »

    Taxi: The concierge at the Marriott recommends a Taxi to The Strip rather than via the nearby Monorail.

    Walking: Walking around the Vegas Strip is epic, but note that city blocks are gargantuan and distances are very deceptive.

    Monorail: A short walk from the Marriott is the Convention Center Monorail Station that leads directly into the heart of the famous Las Vegas Strip. You will need to navigate through Bally's Casino before emerging into the open air on The Strip.

    On The Strip: A focal point for the best of the strip is probably somewhere near the famous dancing fountains that grace the front of the Bellagio. The Cosmopolitan, Caesar's, Paris, are nearby. Any Cirque du Soleil show is going to impress. The Bellagio "O" show is a consistent crowd pleaser. The "Wicked Spoon" is a top rated all-you-can-eat-Vegas-buffet, located in the Cosmopolitan. Options are endless... Plan your activities carefully if you're getting up early in the morning for the river!

    Weather conditions on the Colorado River

    Weather Forecast on the River »

    Use this weather forecast only as a general guide. As your trip will span miles of river, this forecast from the nearest major weather station may not be indicative of the entire region where your trip will take place. Weather in the canyon may vary greatly from any specific forecast.

    Lee's Ferry Forecast

    How to Pack for your Grand Canyon Rafting Vacation

    Get a better idea of each of the items on your packing list. See an example of each item and understand why we recommend you pack it for the river.


    PACKING LIST

    Packing the Best Camera for Rafting

    Choosing the right camera for whitewater rafting is an important decision. With so many options out there, we discuss the pros and cons of the more common cameras we see on the river.

    Do you REALLY need "Quality" Rain Gear?

    Western River Expeditions sent two of our intrepid guides to answer the question once and for all: "What is Quality Rain Gear and Why Do I Need it?"

    See how we pack for a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip

    What does it take to host a party for up to 28 people for more than a week through 277 miles of the Grand Canyon on a massive inflatable raft?

    (Note: the video shows how we pack the rafts for the entire 277 miles of Grand Canyon)

    Expedition Guide

    Expedition Guide & Packing List

    Want to download (almost all) of this info?

    The Expedition Guide for each trip contains the packing list, and most of the info seen on this page. Sometimes it's handy to have this information in a printed format. You can always refer back to this page to watch the videos, or see the current weather and temperatures.

    Keep the PDF on your phone, or print it out for quick "offline" reference.

    Download Guide

    Post-Trip Travel Information »

    Grand Canyon Ranch Helicopter Canyon Your river trip ends at Whitmore Wash (mile 187) mid-morning on the last day. You'll bid farewell to your guides and board a helicopter to exit the canyon. A scenic 10-minute helicopter ride will take you from the river to Bar 10 Ranch on the rim of Grand Canyon. At Bar 10 Ranch you will have the opportunity to shower and have a light lunch before boarding the aircraft for your flight to Las Vegas or Marble Canyon - destination must be pre-determined (return flight is included in the trip cost – original picture I.D. is required for guests 18 and older). You will return to Las Vegas or Marble Canyon by about 3:00 PM. (Please inform us prior to your trip if your return plans change for any reason).

    General Information

    Physical Requirements of a Rafting Trip

    Please consider carefully any medical or health condition that would endanger yourself, or others on the trip, or diminish the enjoyment of an adventure vacation such as this. Factors of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease can become exacerbated by the environment, remote distances from a hospital, and physical challenges of a rafting adventure. It is critical that you are in reasonable health and physical fitness at the time of departure so that our staff can focus their attention equally on all trip participants. If you are taking any medications, we should be made aware of these and what these medications are treating. If you have any questions or concerns please talk with us and we can help you consider your options.


    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

    • Fit into our Type 5 Life Jacket (maximum chest size is 52”and minimum weight is 50 pounds) required by the National Park Service.
        • Each guest wears a lifejacket and they are very effective at keeping you above water, but if you are unable to swim, it can still be a threatening situation because the waters are turbulent. The lifejackets we supply are certified by the United States Coast Guard and are approved for use by our managing agencies (National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management & Utah State Parks & Recreation). They are classified as “Type V Whitewater” jackets, and they come in two basic sizes “Youth” and “Adult Universal.”
        • Youth lifejackets fit those weighing between 50 and 90 pounds (23-41kg). An Adult Universal Jacket is rated “for persons weighing more than 90 pounds (41kg).” They are highly adjustable and fit a range of chest sizes from 30 - 52 inches (76-132 cm). Body shape can also affect the proper fit of the jacket. If you are unsure, call and speak with us. If unsure, we’ll mail you one of our jackets and you can try it on.
    • Securely grip ropes provided for handholds while running the rapids.
        • Gripping the ropes on the raft is the only way to ensure you stay on board. Factors such as where you sit in the raft in relation to where the waves crash can be a factor, but whitewater rafting can give an unpredictable ride.
        • Falling off a boat into the river, or having your boat capsize is one of the inherent risks associated with whitewater rafting. If this happens, you will need the ability to self-rescue by swimming to the boat or to shore. If you end up on shore, you will need to traverse a rocky shoreline to rejoin the boat which cannot maneuver upstream.
        • For those participants who have heart conditions or who are very overweight, falling into the river also presents the possibility of a “cold-water immersion heart attack.” This is caused when the person swimming cannot calm his/her breathing within a reasonable amount of time (generally 60 seconds).
    • Traverse and navigate uneven terrain over sand and rocks on hikes and in camp.
        • Getting on and off the boats can be very challenging. We park the boats against a variety of terrain such as rocks, steep sandy beaches, and flat locations. Boats may also be slippery.
        • As we travel down river, we make occasional stops to lead “side hikes” which can be either very short and relatively easy, or much longer, covering significant distances and elevation. We hike over uneven, rocky, and often steep surfaces. Though all the hikes are not mandatory, Guests cannot be left on the rafts due to safety concerns. Reasonable mobility is important. If you have questions about your limitations, please call.
        • In camp, you will need to have the same mobility over uneven terrain, and be able to carry your personal bags to your campsite while doing so. Also, keep in mind that paths from your campsite to the toilet facilities would not be classified as “easy” to navigate at night.
        • We camp and eat lunch on sandy beaches and on areas where the ground is mostly dirt and rocks. You must also be capable of safely walking across slippery, rocky, and sandy areas as you climb on and off the boat and walk along the beach to your personally selected campsite at night.
    • Carry your own dry bag which will include your 20-pound duffle bag along with the sleeping bag and ground cover we provide.
          • Guests are required to carry their own waterproof bags with personal gear and the additional 15 pounds of camping gear (cots & tents) to their individual campsite. This can be very difficult for some guests due to the uneven terrain, deep sand, and steep beaches.
          • A river trip is a participatory experience and requires each guest to be reasonably self-sufficient. Our guides will look after the safety and welfare of all the participants on the trip, but you are also responsible for your own safety! Our guides will provide you with the information and tools you need to participate; however, they already fill nearly every minute of their day performing their duties on behalf of the group. They will not be able to devote a lot of extra time to any one individual on the trip.

      • WEATHER:
      The nature of an outdoor adventure includes exposure to weather conditions such as heat, sun, wind or rain - sometimes in the extreme. With proper preparation procedures such as applying sunscreen, wearing the right clothing, etc., many of these factors of weather (even in the extreme) can be mitigated, and do not have to be a negative factor. Factors of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease can become exacerbated by the environment, remoteness, and physical requirements of a rafting adventure.


          REMOTE LOCATIONS:Our trips are operated in the “backcountry.” At any given time, you will be a minimum of several hours away from medical help. Our guides are all trained in wilderness first aid and some have even higher levels of emergency response training (e.g., EMT), however, sometimes injuries or the aggravation of pre-existing medical conditions are severe enough to require evacuation from the trip. We carry satellite phones but they are not 100 percent reliable in all locations. Most evacuations require transportation via helicopter which presents many challenges such as appropriate landing zones, inclement weather, darkness, or delays.
        Dietary Requirements & Menu Substitutions

        If you or any of the participants in your party have special dietary requirements, severe or life-threatening allergies of any kind, a multi-day rafting trip may not be a suitable trip for you. Due to space limitations and the nature of our buffet-style meal service, we are unable to accommodate dietary requests such as Kosher and Vegan. If you are unable to find options on our standard meal service (see below) that meet your dietary needs, you may supplement the existing meals where necessary with some of your own food, as long as it does not require cooking on our limited stove and cookware surfaces.

          Substitutions for guests with SEVERE ALLERGIES
          We take allergies very seriously at Western River Expeditions. It is important that you describe to us the exact details of any allergies you may have, including symptoms and severity. If you have an allergy which may cause difficulty breathing, anaphylaxis or other severe and life-threatening reactions; please read the following points carefully. We want to make sure you are familiar with what we can and can't do for you in a wilderness setting. If you have a severe allergy you will be required to bring at least two Epi-pens on your trip. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at 1-866-904-1160.


          • All reasonable efforts will be made to avoid cross contamination. We cannot guarantee that any of our products are free from allergens (including dairy, eggs, soy, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and other allergens) as we use shared equipment to store, prepare and serve them. For this reason, allergies to commonly used products such as onions, bell peppers, black pepper, garlic, or corn may not be possible to accommodate as most of these are present in the pre-made products we purchase. Please inform us as to the exact severity of these allergies, and whether it is anaphylactic or gastrointestinal.
          • Peanut butter will be served on a separate table with disposable utensils. Guests with severe allergies may go through the line first, before cross contamination may occur. When preparing something like a salad with nuts, part of the salad will be set aside and covered for you before the nuts are added.
          • It is our policy not to remove an ingredient from a trip when a guest has an allergy to the ingredient.
          • You are welcome in the kitchen during meal preparation to read food labels and check if you are allergic to any meal items.

          Substitutions for VEGETARIAN GUESTS
          Western River Expeditions can provide vegetarian alternatives for many items. Please see the list below and compare it with the standard meals for your trip. If you feel that this will not be sufficient, you are welcome to bring additional options. Your guides will store any food that you bring but will not be able to prepare it for you due to limitations of the kitchen facilities such as the number of pots and burners.

            • Garden Burgers, Tofu or a Portobello mushroom will be provided to replace steak, chicken or trout for those with vegetarian preferences
            • Vegetarian pasta sauce- Replaces the meat sauce

              Dishes such as green beans almondine, curry chicken salad and tuna salad can be prepared without meat. Peanut butter is always available at lunch and hummus is also provided for vegetarian guests. Whenever possible meat will be served separately from other items to maximize options for vegetarian guests. For example, the chicken for the chicken fajitas will not be mixed with the peppers and onions. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at 1-866-904-1160.


              Substitutions for GLUTEN FREE GUESTS
              Western River Expeditions will provide gluten free alternatives for many items. Please see the list below and compare it with the standard meals for your trip. If you feel that this will not be sufficient, you are welcome to bring additional options. Your guides will store any food that you bring but will not be able to prepare it for you due to limitations of the kitchen facilities such as number of pots and burners. The backcountry often does not provide ideal conditions to avoid cross contamination. All reasonable efforts will be made to keep foods separate but if your sensitivity is severe, we may not be able to accommodate you. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at 1-866-904-1160.
              • Gluten free bread- Replaces lunch bread, garlic bread, toast and english muffins
              • Gluten free pasta- Replaces pasta dinner
              • Gluten free pancakes- Replaces blueberry pancakes
              • Corn tortillas- Replace flour tortillas used for lunch wraps and chicken fajita dinner
              • Gluten free hamburger buns- Replace hamburger buns
              • Gluten free bagels- Replace bagels
              • Corn chex- Replaces cereal
              • Gluten free snack bars- Replace snacks containing gluten


              Specific DAIRY information

              Many of our meals have alternative options for avoiding dairy. Depending on your sensitivity, make sure to consult with your guides, and to review the labels of the brands that are on your trip. Because of the remote location of our warehouse, we source products from different vendors each week. The only time we serve milk is the continental breakfast one morning. We can provide Rice Milk for this meal. We generally avoid cooking with butter, and your guides will be happy to accommodate this if you check with them the first day of the trip. Items to watch and avoid are:
              • Most of the cake and muffin mixes contain dairy or whey.
              • Some of our breads contain whey, but many do not.
              • Several desserts are cakelike products which contain dairy.
              • Some of our snacks.
              If you are highly sensitive, we strongly advise that you bring supplemental snacks, desserts, and other foods to make sure you have adequate products to eat. We always have fresh fruits and vegetables available, but with the additional energy expended during an active trip like this, it is important to have an ample supply of alternative products you are comfortable ingesting, primarily snacks and desserts. We will have ample storage, dry or refrigerated available. We hope that this will help you plan accordingly and that you have a great trip with us!


            MEALS SERVED:

            Breakfasts

            • Bacon, eggs to order, hash browns, freshly baked muffins, fresh fruit and OJ
            • Blueberry pancakes with assorted syrups, sausage links, fresh fruit and OJ French toast with assorted syrups, pork chops, fresh fruit and OJ
            • Cold cereal with milk, yogurt, bagels with cream cheese, canned fruit and OJ
            • Eggs to order, Canadian bacon, English muffins, hollandaise sauce, fresh fruit and OJ
            • 7 day only: Grilled ham, pineapple, scrambled eggs, fresh fruit and OJ
            • Coffee, hot tea, cocoa and cider are available every morning

            Lunches

              • Lunch meats (turkey, ham, pastrami and roast beef), assorted breads, assorted cheeses, lettuce, tomato, pickles, olives and red onion. This lunch is served three times.
              • Curry chicken salad with chicken, plain yogurt, red onion, lettuce, tomato, golden raisins, carrot, cashews and curry powder. Assorted cheeses, pickles, red onion and olives.
              • Tuna salad with tuna, lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo, dried cranberries and sweet relish. Assorted cheeses, pickles red onion and olives.
              • 7 day only: Bean salad with black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, hominy, green chilies, jicama, salsa, shredded cheese, lime juice, cilantro and corn chips. Assorted cheeses, pickles red onion and olives.
              All lunches include peanut butter and jelly, fresh fruit, chips, cookies and a variety of condiments.

            Dinners

            • New York strip steak, fresh seasonal vegetables, spinach salad with strawberries, walnuts and blue cheese.
            • BBQ chicken, corn bread, green salad and vegetable side dish
            • Chicken fajitas, sautéed peppers and onions, Spanish rice, vegetarian refried beans and fruit salad
            • Pasta, sauce including tomatoes, ground beef, sausage, bell pepper, onion, garlic, mushrooms and seasonings. Italian salad and garlic bread.
            • Rainbow trout, baked potato with assorted toppings, coleslaw and dinner rolls.
            • 7 day only: Hamburgers with a variety of toppings and condiments, bratwurst, sauerkraut, baked beans and potato salad.

            Hors d'oeuvres

            • Crab dip with cream cheese, cocktail sauce and crackers
            • Hummus and spinach artichoke dips served with vegetables and crackers
            • Guacamole with corn chips
            • Caprese salad containing mozzarella cheese, basil, tomato and balsamic vinegar
            • Shrimp cocktail
            • 7day only: Meatballs and vegetables with dipping sauces

            Desserts

            • German chocolate cake, chocolate brownies or carrot cake
            • Fresh baked Dutch oven frosted cakes
            • Bananas Foster with ice cream
            • Pecan pie
            • 7 day only: Peach cobbler
            • During fire restrictions, dessert options may vary
            Snacks may include: trail mix, granola bars, Chex mix, Ritz bits, Rice Crispy treats, candy bars and honey roasted peanuts. Fresh fruit is also available on request.
        A Typical Day on the River

        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, and lunch. Visiting with new-found friends and learning river lore and geology from our well-trained guides add 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 “fire line” - 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 sautéed 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 fire line once again and you are off on another fun-filled day of adventure.

        Rafting vs Other Vacations

        The setting and pace of a rafting adventure gives you something you don’t find in other vacations. On a Western River Expedition, you will quickly discover why so many are calling this “the best vacation of their lives.” It’s the combination of drifting 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 waterfalls 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. Come discover the difference.

        Payment & Cancellation Policies

        Paying your balance

        Payment in full is due 120 days prior to trip departure and may be paid by check or credit card. We reserve the right to cancel your reservation if full payment is not collected by the due date.

        Cancellation & refunds

        The cancellation policy applies at the time of deposit. Details regarding cancellations and travel changes for each trip can be found here or on your reservation confirmation. If you must cancel any reservation, the cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Western will not issue any refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. Western River Expeditions is not responsible for any expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips or for costs incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. If you are concerned about the possibility of having to cancel, you may find information about cancellation coverage and policy details at: westernriver.com/cancellation

        Other Questions

        If you have additional questions, our friendly staff is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Mountain Time.

        Call: 800-453-7450

        Also, visit us online at westernriver.com for more information. Be sure to see ALL our “FAQS & POLICIES” section for this trip.