It used to be that family vacations to the Grand Canyon National Park consisted of stopping at a couple of overlooks. It doesn’t have to be that way, especially with the advent of flatwater float tours. These all-day adventures allow you to see the canyon like never before. But most importantly, they are open to travelers of all ages, including children ages four and up.
There are a number of companies that offer float tours. The most reputable operates from Las Vegas and the South Rim. From Las Vegas, travel is limited to the West Rim and the lower reaches of the Colorado River. South Rim packages traverse the same river from Glen Canyon Dam to Lee’s Ferry.
The Vegas package begins with a helicopter ride to the bottom of the canyon. This is an exceptional flight in that you can only do it on the West Rim. Passengers have 30 minutes to explore the base. After that, you transfer to a bus and head to the base of the spectacular Hoover Dam, where the 11-mile rafting trip to Willow Beach, AZ begins.
South Rim packs come in two flavors. The most requested is the one that departs from the Grand Canyon National Park Airport by bus to Page, AZ. Driving time is approximately 2.5 hours. The views are breathtaking and include eastern parts of the Park, the Painted Desert, and the Navajo Indian Reservation.
The bus continues through a two mile long tunnel through the base of the dam to the pontoon dock. The boats hold up to 17 people and are adventure grade. The total distance you will travel on the water is approximately 15 miles. There are several retreats, including one where you take a short hike up to a rock face with Indian petroglyphs. Tours end at Lee’s Ferry, the starting point for whitewater rafting expeditions.
The other variation on South Rim’s flatwater tube tours includes a plane ride to Page Airport. The sites you will see are phenomenal and include the Desert Watchtower, the Zuni Corridor, the Colorado River Confluence, and much more. Before beginning your rafting trip, you’ll hop into a 4×4 Jeep and take a guided tour of the famous Antelope Valley.
The float trips are all-inclusive and come with the boat, all equipment, water, lunch, and transportation back to the Grand Canyon airport. A certified river pilot will manage each tour. Getting a good guide is essential to really understand the area you are going rafting through.
Be prepared for the weather. Trips to Las Vegas and the South Rim are hot during the summer, so be sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and water (also provided with the tour). Bring lip balm, a set of dry clothes, and sandals suitable for river rafting. Expect to get wet.
Flatwater trips are a great way for families and groups to enjoy the Grand Canyon together. Children from 4 years old can participate. These trips are all-day affairs, so be sure to plan accordingly. I highly recommend booking your tour in advance because these tours do sell out during the summer. Finally, do a price check on the Internet. The Web is where you’ll find the best deals, just make sure you complete your transaction online to qualify for that special promotion.