What are the Different Class Levels of Rafting on the Colorado River?

The Grand Canyon stretch of the mighty Colorado River is home to many Class IV to V whitewater rafting class levels. There are certain stretches of river that only professionals and seasoned whitewater river runners raft. If you are thinking of exploring the Colorado River on either a private or commercial raft trip, then it is best to get acquainted with the different class levels of rafting on this mighty stretch of the body of water.  One thing to note is that in Grand Canyon, the classes are more specific as they us a 1 – 10 (I -X) rating scale. Advantage Grand Canyon has been providing thrill seekers with the correct information regarding these classes of rafting trips so they can better appreciate what they are signing up for. It is important to note that the intensity of the rapids depends on water flow and speed, as well as water level. There is no “better” time to raft for better rapids as the Glenn Canyon dam is constantly releasing the flow of water year round so the rapids are not roaring only during spring run off as in other rivers. Some rapids react more aggressively in slower lower water while others do the opposite.

Along the entire stretch of the Colorado, our outfitter partners can take you and your family for a ride of a lifetime.  You will not have to navigate these rapids as your experienced guides will be doing so. The only exception is in a paddle raft where you will be digging into the water while being commanded by your river guide at the rear of the raft.  In every other raft type, you’ll need to hang on and enjoy the ride!

Below are the different class levels of rafting and we have listed them in the Grand Canyon 1-10 rating scale for your review:

Class 1 – This class of rafting simply means you will have a very relaxed ride flowing along with the river’s current. There are occasional small waves and very few obstacles and river features that you should be concerned about.

Class 2-3 – When you begin to see rougher waves that are nonetheless no more than 3 feet tall with occasional rocks or boulders that require some degree of maneuvering, then you know that you have just entered the domain of Class 2 – 3 level of rafting. Here, you will have to be on your toes as you will also have to steer your raft away from obstacles.

Class 4-5-6 – By the time you reach a portion of the Colorado where the waves can reach up to 4 feet high, then you know you are rafting in either a 4,5 or 6 system. Many of our clients prefer this as it provides excellent challenge and thrill without necessarily scaring them out of their wits.

Class 7-8 – There are plenty of narrow passages, long and quite difficult rapids, and very turbulent water in a Classes 7-8. This for the advanced rafting enthusiast as it requires precision maneuvering.

Class 9-10 – The ultimate in navigable river systems, the Class 10 is where many professionals and daredevils will go for an optimum adrenaline rush. There are plenty of gushing rapids, spinning and twisting water features, and obstacles the size of a house. The Gore and Tunnel rapids in the Colorado River are just 2 examples of Class 10’s and in Grand Canyon depending on the water level Chrystal rapid and Lava Falls.

These are the different class levels of rafting in the Colorado River and rest assured that your highly experienced Grand Canyon commercial rafting guides will navigate you through them expertly. Get in touch with Advantage Grand Canyon to help you decide which Grand Canyon raft trip is ideal for you.

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Advantages of Company Rafting Trips

There are certainly many options available for companies or teams who want to plan outdoor group activities. We would like to you to consider the many advantages of taking your group or company on a Grand Canyon company rafting trip. Over the course of booking thousands of clients on raft trips throughout the Grand Canyon, we have seen a number of group bookings of 5-10 or more consisting of either larger families, often 3 generations or more as well as adventure and team building company rafting trips.

Some Reasons Why You Should Consider Planning Grand Canyon Company Rafting Trips…

The ultimate team building experience

Companies are always thinking of ways to provide employees with a different experience. These outdoor events are more than just a way to get everyone out of the office. These are opportunities for colleagues and managers to get to know each other better, build camaraderie among fellow team members and enjoy positive experiences together. Outdoor activities are also an effective way to get everyone working together outside of their normal daily activities. Imagine sharing a paddle raft among fellow coworkers, navigating downriver working together as a team in order find the best line through the roaring rapids. Cooperation may mean the difference between going overboard and taking a swim or making it through the rapid wet but still seated inside. Learn how to communicate better, work together as one unit, contribute to the group’s success and understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses all the while helping each other along the way.

It’s time to get to know each other better

It’s a combination of on raft excitement while on the river, hiking with friends and co-workers to magnificent waterfalls and attractions, and kicking back with some cold beer at camp each night enjoying the conversation that is not work related for a change. The workplace is not always the ideal environment to chat and interact with colleagues on a personal level. On a company Grand Canyon raft trip, however, there will certainly be many opportunities to experience each other in a different environment, grow the connection among fellow coworkers and guarantee that everyone will come back better acquainted, and more comfortable with one another.

It’s time to enjoy the outdoors

If your organization is based in a big city, most of your employees probably do not have as many opportunities to enjoy nature. In fact, part of our mission is to introduce people to the sheer beauty of the Grand Canyon. We are so in love with the outdoors that we chose it as our place of work, and revealing it’s beauty to as many individuals as possible brings us joy.

These trips are a chance for your employees to experience sleeping under the moon and the stars, and at the same time, developing or sharpening some outdoor skills. The natural beauty and the fresh air can certainly revitalize those who are burnt out or stressed, and allow them some time to unwind and recharge. Your team members and colleagues will certainly benefit from this experience.

These are only a few of the reasons why one should consider booking a whitewater rafting trip for your company and fellow team members. Rest assured that you won’t have to stress about planning or logistics, as we are here to help with all of that. Our experts will provide you with all of the details, and are happy to set up a conference call with all interested members to answer their questions regarding your potential adventure leaving you to just enjoy the ride and take out as much from the experience as possible. Book your company whitewater rafting trip now!

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4 Tips To Whitewater Rafting On Rivers

So you have decided to go on a whitewater rafting trip. You’re not alone. In fact, whitewater rafting is one of the items on the bucket list of millions of people all over the world. It is not only for the extreme outdoorsman but also for those with very little outdoor experience who wish to ride along the world’s greatest rivers on a whitewater rafting trip. If you are in the United States, you’re lucky as there are plenty or options  from West to East.

Before You Pick Up That Phone And Call A Whitewater Rafting Outfitter, Read The Following Tips First To Make Your Whitewater Adventure Truly Memorable:

Learn the Different Classes of Whitewater Rivers

The very first thing you have to do is to acquaint yourself with the different classes of whitewater river systems. Keep in mind that you don’t have to be concerned about your experience level if rafting on a commercial Grand Canyon trip as the expert guides are navigating the rapids. Additionally the Colorado River in Grand Canyon is a 1-10 rating scale as opposed to 1 – IV on all other rivers. Calm water with very negligible to zero obstacles is often rated as Class I. As you go up the scale, the water obstacles grow significantly greater which can include sheer vertical drops, several meter-high whitewater waves, boulders the size of a house, and whirlpools, among others. Class IV and V are only for the experienced professionals and extreme athletes. Class VI rapids and whitewater river systems are off-limits even to the world’s best extreme athletes. If you’re just beginning, make sure to try whitewater rafting in Class II or III rapids first.

Always Wear the Correct Apparel and Gear

Make sure to wear the appropriate apparel and gear. As much as possible don’t wear cotton fabric apparel when you go in the river, keep this material for evaporative cooling when on a hot hike. While on river and although a swimsuit might be good for the beach, it usually is a good idea to have good rain gear protecting you from the cold river water temperature. Additionally, make sure you wear non-slip shoes and that your life jacket is on tight!

Always Listen to Your River Guide

Whitewater outfitters always put the safety of whitewater rafters above all else. As such, you always want to listen to your river guide because they have a wealth of knowledge they can share. They know the terrain including wildlife around the whitewater river system. They know the dangerous and highly hazardous areas and as such will advise you on what and what not to do. And if you do choose the Grand Canyon for your whitewater rafting adventures, you can count on Advantage Grand Canyon to hook you up with the commercial outfitter best suited for your needs.

Always Observe Basic Safety Rules

Whitewater rafting river guides will explain the rules of the river both on and off the raft and it is your responsibility to practice good reasoning while on a Colorado river trip. Make sure that your life vest is synched tightly around you at all times when on the raft and that you listed to their guidance at all times. Make sure to also disclose any medical conditions or dietary restrictions prior to starting your whitewater raft adventure. Call us today to book your trip now.

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Adding A Whitewater Rafting Adventure To Your Las Vegas Vacation

Las Vegas can be a perfect starting point for a one-day whitewater rafting adventure in the Grand Canyon segment of the mighty Colorado River. Here, you have a choice of exploring the Canyon’s southern or northern rim as well as the eastern portion of the Grand Canyon.

From your hotel in Las Vegas, you will be taken to the Grand Canyon by a van from one of the many travel and tour providers that serve the Grand Canyon area. Your first stopover will be at Kingman in Arizona where you will have a hearty breakfast. On your way to Kingman, you will be passing by the marvelous and truly breathtaking engineering wonder Hoover Dam. From Kingman, you take Route 66 towards Peach Springs, right in the heart of the Hualapai Indian settlement. From Peach Springs, you will then take your descent via Diamond Creek Road to reach the bottom of the Canyon.

This Is Where A Whitewater Rafting Adventure Starts

Upon reaching the bank of the Colorado River, you will be met by your whitewater river guide. He will provide a few quick tips on maintaining safety in the entire whitewater river rafting trip. Listen to all the instructions so you will know what to do. Your life literally depends on it.

You will then board a motorized whitewater river raft to cover greater lengths of the Colorado River. This portion of the Colorado is home to Class II and Class III whitewater. This means that there will be some portions of rough cruising. There will be considerable drops of a few feet which should be perfect for introducing you to the world of whitewater river rafting. If you have a child with you, do take note that he needs to be at least 8 years old in order to be allowed to board the craft.
After enjoying the thrill and excitement of shooting some of the moderately categorized rapids, you will be taking a break. Depending on where you stopped, you can take in more of the breathtaking scenery of the Grand Canyon. You can try venturing into some of its travertine waterfalls or even hidden caves and refreshing springs. After the break, you will resume your river journey.

Upon reaching Quartermaster Canyon, your river journey ends. You will be airlifted via helicopter towards Grand Canyon West. The helicopter ride gives you one fantastic bird’s eye view of the majestic nature of the Grand Canyon. From there, you will then be transported back to your hotel in Las Vegas using the tour facility’s vehicle.

So, if you are planning to go to Las Vegas for whitewater rafting adventure several days of absolute fun and entertainment, make sure to visit the Grand Canyon. If you are looking for a smooth water float trip and will be in Page, AZ, Advantage Grand Canyon can help you with this as well! You only live once so book your trip now.

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Differentiating Paddle And Motorized Rafting Trips

When you go whitewater rafting you will be given two choices for transportation along the river: You can take rafting trips that are powered either by an outboard motor or by paddles/oars on a non-motor raft which includes Oar, Dory, Paddle rafts. There is a perfect trip for everyone and while some prefer motorized rafting trips, other’s ideal trip would be a non-motor trip.

Motorized rafting trips can travel faster. Many whitewater river vacationers take a motorized rafting trips when they want to see as much of the river as possible, in a shorter amount of time, 3-8 days. For example, to navigate the entire 280-mile length of the Grand Canyon portion of the great Colorado River, all you need is 6-8 days in a motor raft trip. 

 

Some Things You Need To Know About Motorized Rafting Trips

The safest of all raft types these large vessels carry 12-14 passengers comfortably, 2 of whom will be your whitewater river guides. If you are the type of individual who prefers a sense of security while on river, then motorized rafting trips are the way to go. Many comfortable seating options  offer the perfect opportunity to meet new people and socialize during calmer waters between rapids. The motorized whitewater rafting trips are actually the most popular trip option chosen by more rafters annually over any other raft type.

Motorized rafting trips are perfect for larger groups who would like to take in as much of the scenery of the Grand Canyon as they possibly can. Since it is motorized, their focus will be on the scenery and the many frequent stops along the way rather then navigating rapids or paddling the raft. Perfect for families who want an exciting adventure, less then 8 days in length. Keep in mind that if you have a child, there is a minimum age requirement of 8 years for these trips.

Paddle-powered rafting trips are for those who would like to really experience navigating through some of the river’s roughest waters. Paddle-powered rafts are much smaller than motorized rafts and as such can hold only up to six to eight individuals at a time, including the river guide. This makes for a perfect test of your physical strength and mental alertness as you have to work with the rest of the team to safely navigate your craft through rough waters. Your guide directs you, so no previous rafting in necessary however outfitters recommend only those physically capable of paddling for multiple days in a row, to opt for a paddle raft trip.  Other non-motor options include Oar or Dory trips as well as Hybrid raft trips which is a combination of Oar rafts (rowed by the guide) and a Paddle raft to be used on rotation among passengers. This way you can take a break in a Oar raft and not be committed to paddling every day of your trip. 

The fact that non-motor powered rafting trips cruise at the speed of the river (3-4 mph) is why they take twice as long as a motor raft trip (8-9 mph). The minimum age for non-motor trips is 12 for some options and up to 16 for others.

 

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How To Have the Best Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure Ever

When it comes to whitewater rafting adventures, nothing can come close to the fame and world-renowned reputation of the Grand Canyon. Sure, there are other whitewater river systems in the world, some offering vertical drops higher and obstacles much more dangerous than those in the Grand Canyon, but with its beautiful landscape crafted by Mother Nature herself, shooting the rapids of the Grand Canyon while immersing yourself in the beauty of the environment, eating deliciously prepare meals is simply the best adventure rafting you will ever have.

Here’s How You Can Ensure A Great Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure

Plan Well Ahead of Time

Know that there are limits to the number river permits granted to the outfitters as well as how many launches per day are allowed on the river so a great source to learn about trip availability is us here at Advantage Grand Canyon. We know all of the Grand Canyon whitewater rafting outfitters’ schedules and itineraries and can provide you with real time availability at no cost to you. Suffice it to say, you need to plan at least a month before you head out to the Grand Canyon but we often fit clients in on last minute trips.

Consider Your Time and Financial Resources

Although this is a bucket list type of trip and ideally one should never bound their dreams based on a price tag, the reality is that these trips are not inexpensive and planning in advance, setting up a budget is recommended. You can choose shorter trips like a 3 to 4-day raft adventures on either the Upper Canyon for the most inexpensive options but do note that these trips require a strenuous 9.5 mile hike ascending the bright angel trail at trip’s end.  This should also address your concern for time especially if you can only squeeze a week or two off your busy schedule to have the best adventure in your life. Of course, on the longer end there are 12-18 day trips available as well.

Choose Your Rafting Trip

You can choose the much shorter yet equally exciting adventure rafting trips for 3 to 5 days and more commonly booked trip of 6 to 9 days exploring the Upper Canyon or the Lower Canyon sections. For the ultimate adventure rafting in the Grand Canyon you have the option to choose a 12 to 18-day trip that covers between 188 to 280-miles. 

Ensuring the best Grand Canyon rafting adventure starts with planning your trip in relation to your resources. Simply ask us here at Advantage Grand Canyon to plan for you the best adventure rafting trip of your lifetime!

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The Grand Canyon National Park App

Here’s A Great App For The Grand Canyon National Park

Advantage Grand Canyon has all the answers when it comes to your visit to the Grand Canyon. How long should I stay? Which raft should I go for? Which route should I take? An expert can answer all of these questions for you. While our site is rich with information about the Grand Canyon, it wouldn’t hurt to have extra a little more info about what you can expect within and the surrounding area.

If you’re a smartphone user, there’s a Grand Canyon National Park app that gives you a good idea of what the Grand Canyon for tourists is all about. First of all, the app works without data or a Wi-Fi connection so you can easily use it wherever you are. There are over 300 unique points of interest in this app, all of which having expertly-written details of each place. Perhaps the best thing about it is that it has a professionally recorded voice audio to guide people around the tour for an advanced view of the Grand Canyon before your visit. The app has over 150 images of the park, 35 hiking trails with descriptions, information on museums, picnic sites, park transportation, and cycle routes. It also has a GPS function that you can rely on when you find yourself at a loss.

Right now, there are hundreds of apps in the mobile market for outdoor pursuits. According to an infographic presented by business2community, 28% of smartphone users around the world rely on their smartgadgets when traveling, which explains the sheer number of apps that companies make for specific tourist spots, like the Grand Canyon.

For the mainstream tourist places like Las Vegas, there are even more apps for that people can use without the need of accessing the Internet due to advances in mobile tech. Gaming Realms, a software developer of recreational gaming titles, predicted in 2013 that smartphones would exceed the number of PCs owned by the consumer, and they were right. Thus, don’t be surprised to discover specialized apps for just about all of your favorite outdoor pursuits and chosen destinations. With more and more companies now willing to focus on the development of mobile apps not only for gaming but traveling as well, the industry has become a proverbial fountain of knowledge for travelers.

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