double clickGrand Canyon Vacation Itinerary
Grand Canyon
6 or 7 Day Rafting Vacation

The Perfect Grand Canyon Vacation Itinerary

On this Grand Canyon whitewater adventure, you'll raft 188 miles from Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash. You'll discover spellbinding sites including Vasey's Paradise, Redwall Cavern, Deer Creek Falls, and renowned Havasu Canyon where countless tranquil pools cascade down to the Colorado River.

Your 6 or 7 day Grand Canyon vacation itinerary includes world-class whitewater balanced by serene stretches of river winding through the heart of Grand Canyon National Park. Just after Lava Falls rapid, a helicopter will take you over the rim to Bar 10 Ranch for a shower and lunch before your return flight to Marble Canyon or Las Vegas. No Grand Canyon rafting trip unfolds in the same way, but the following day-by-day itinerary will give you a general idea as to how the expedition might flow.

Grand Canyon River Map

Day 1: Grand Canyon »

Meet your Western River Expeditions crew and rafts at 7:30 AM in Marble Canyon, Arizona, a dramatic launch point on the Colorado River (see options for travel and accommodations below). After a short ride to the river's edge you'll load your duffle bag into a dry bag, listen to a brief orientation from your guides and begin rafting the Grand Canyon. Drift lazily, relax, and then savor lunch on a white sand beach. Mighty House Rock Rapid and the Roaring 20's set the pace for the next several days. Relax at the water's edge in camp while your guides prepare a delicious dinner, then fall asleep to the most incredible star show in the world.

Floating the Colorado River

Day 2: Grand Canyon »

After a hearty breakfast prepared by your guides, you'll head downriver for more adventures. Visit Vasey's Paradise, a spectacular cascade of water that supports a lush hanging garden, and Redwall Cavern, a vast chamber carved by the river. Hike breathtaking side canyons or visit ancient Anasazi granaries. Relaxing stretches of river punctuated by exciting whitewater and interesting riverside attractions fill an unforgettable day.

Redwall Cavern

Days 3 & 4: Grand Canyon »

After a possible swim in the warm, turquoise waters of the Little Colorado River, you're on your way to Hance, Horn, Granite, Hermit and Crystal...all rapids respected for their huge waves. Western's knowledgeable guides lead short hikes to hidden Elves Chasm and to pounding Deer Creek Falls.

Whitewater rafting in Grand Canyon

Day 5: Grand Canyon »

Perhaps spend some time exploring the azure green waters of renowned Havasu Canyon where countless tranquil pools beckon you to find your own private piece of this hidden paradise - or explore other possible side canyons and waterfalls such as Matkatimiba, Fern Glen, or Tuckup Canyon located in this section of Grand Canyon. After dining on Western's famous evening cuisine, capture the dazzling glow of the sun on the towering canyon walls before it slips into the horizon.

Havasu

Days 6 or 7: Grand Canyon »

Vulcan's Anvil, a volcanic cone mid-river, signals the approach of Lava Falls, the Colorado River's most notorious rapid, making rafting the Grand Canyon truly memorable. By mid morning, you'll meet your helicopter that will take you over the canyon rim to Bar Ten Ranch for a shower and lunch, before your return flight to Marble Canyon or Las Vegas.

7 Day Trip Note » Covering the same 188 miles of astounding Grand Canyon beauty as the 6-day Grand Canyon trip, our 7-day experience offers one more precious day on the river, a slightly more relaxed pace and the possibility of a little more hiking time.

Exit Grand Canyon by helicopter
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Before your Grand Canyon Vacation...

Prior to the start of your rafting vacation, you may choose to meet in either Las Vegas, Nevada and take a charter flight to Marble Canyon, Arizona where your trip begins or you may meet us directly in Marble Canyon.

Meeting in Marble Canyon, Arizona

Meeting in Marble Canyon means arriving by car, or by shuttle service the night before the river trip begins. It is a remote location along U.S. Highway 89A. Most who meet here live in Utah, Colorado or Arizona, where traveling to Las Vegas by car may be less convenient.

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Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada

Meeting in Las Vegas means arriving in Las Vegas the night before your river trip, and boarding a flight (arranged through Western River) to arrive at Marble Canyon the morning of your river trip. Most travelers take this route, as they are flying into Harry Reid International Airport from various distant locations.

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After your Grand Canyon Vacation...

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).