Photography and Video On Your Grand Canyon Raft Trip

Photography and Video Tips While Rafting The Canyon

Photography is an incredible tool. It allows us to capture important events, share these experiences with others and forever immortalize significant occasions. It’s like pushing a save button on our memories. However, photography, in many cases nowadays, can be a great detractor from the overall experience if handled incorrectly. Living behind a lens will never live up to living in the moment.

We’ve all been guilty of toting around our personal cameras, sticking them out in the air at any and every imagined photo op and snapping blindly, hoping that perhaps one will turn out, or that we’ll at least capture a “for the record shot.” Our advice to you is to go ahead and take incredible pictures and videos; capture the beauty of the Grand Canyon, the excitement of the rapids, the serenity of the campfires. Just remember to take even more time to live in the moment. Put your camera away, sit back and take in the “now.”

If you’re going to take pictures try to really capture the moment, rather than snapping “for the record.” Good picture taking is an art. Anyone can point and shoot, but it only takes a small amount of extra effort to be able to capture an inspiring, timeless photo. When you’re ready to take a shot, think about what about it inspired you to pull out your camera in the first place. Was it the way the morning sunlight glints off the red rocky canyon walls? Feel that, see it in your lens, then snap. Do you see a California Condor flying over the Colorado, wing tips glazing the water’s glassy surface? Snap it as you see it. Was it the excitement and anticipation in your companion’s eyes upon spotting an imminent rapid? Rather than having him turn to pose for you, capture the moment as your mind’s eye sees it.

“When people ask me what photography equipment I use – I tell them my eyes.” – Anonymous

What Equipment Is Needed To Take Beautiful Pictures

“Be ready” is the photographer’s motto. This means many things. First, Choose the right equipment and know your equipment in and out. Test your camera and practice taking good shots outdoors before you leave home. Second, bring extra memory cards and batteries. Surprise, surprise – there’s no electronics store down in the Grand Canyon. Finally, make sure your camera is secure, but have it handy. Moments don’t wait and attempting to recreate moments makes for visibly fake and posed pictures.

When choosing what type of photography equipment to bring, keep in mind the setting – this is a whitewater raft trip down into the Grand Canyon. Your equipment will get dirty, it will probably get wet, and it may even get ruined. For these reasons we recommend the following products:

1. Whitewater rafters love GoPros. They are HD, waterproof, shockproof and perfect for adventures. (example: http://www.amazon.com/GoPro-CHDHY-401-HERO4-SILVER/dp/B00NIYJF6U/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1448467109&sr=1-3&keywords=go+pro)
2. One of the highest-rated digital cameras is the Olympus TG-4. It’s small, HD, waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof and crushproof. (example: http://www.amazon.com/Olympus-Waterproof-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B00UKV5D4C/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1448467333&sr=1-4&keywords=olympus+tg-4)
3. If you already have photography equipment that you’d like to bring, but it is not waterproof we recommend purchasing a waterproof bag (example: http://www.amazon.com/Freegrace%C2%AE-Ultimate-Lightweight-Dry-Sack/dp/B00UXENA1O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1448467045&sr=8-2&keywords=waterproof+camera+bag)
4. Or find a waterproof camera case that’s made specifically for your model camera.

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History of Whitewater Rafting in Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Whitewater Rafting History

Archaeological evidence confirms that Native Americans have occupied the Grand Canyon for over 10,000 years. Throughout that time natives would traverse the Colorado River as needed in sturdy, hand-carved canoes, but whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon as we know it today is a relatively new activity.

The 16^th century “Age of Discovery” produced a thirst for exploration and a hunger for gold. In 1540, Spanish soldiers became the first non-native people to explore the canyon. These Spanish soldiers, led by Captain Garcia Lopez de Cardenas, arrived in the canyon nearly 500 years ago, in 1540. Their mission was to discover the mythical and elusive Cibola, known to adventurers and conquistadors as the Seven Cities of Gold. They began their expedition at the South Rim, accompanied by Hopi Native American guides. Nothing in the explorers’ experience could have prepared them for the sheer size and vastness of this beautiful painted landscape. The search lasted three years and, though the fabled village was never found, the expedition put the Grand Canyon on the map. Today, you can experience the Spanish solders’ wonder and search for your own legendary Cibola on our lower canyon raft trip options.

The first mission to accurately and scientifically explore the Grand Canyon wasn’t commenced for another 300 years after the Spanish explorers’ foray. In 1869, Major John Wesley Powell, a Civil War veteran, courageously voyaged down the Colorado’s whitewater, through the Grand Canyon, with the intention of mapping it. Up until that point, the canyon was peculiarly absent from any Western United States maps. Major Powell and his team whitewater rafted through the Grand Canyon, much as we do today. Be a part of history and book the most popular raft trip today on our full canyon motor trip to experience the Grand Canyon much the same as Major Powell did when he mapped the Colorado River nearly 150 years ago.

Finally in 1923, the US Geological Survey conducted the first instrument survey of the Grand Canyon section of the Colorado River. By the mid-20^th century, only about 100 people are documented to have navigated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. The second half of the 20^th century brought dramatic changes in the way of tourism to the canyon. The sparse number of river rafters willing to circumnavigate the Colorado through the Grand Canyon went up dramatically when army-surplus inflatable rafts became available.

Today’s familiar commercial river running was founded by the late and great Georgie White Clark. She used the army-surplus inflatable rafts and introduced many innovations and methods, such as tethering multiple rafts together to maintain stability through large rapids, that whitewater rafting tour guides still use to this day. In 2001, the United States Board on Geographic Names renamed Mile 24 Rapid in her honor. Today, you can honor this amazing Grand Canyon whitewater rafting pioneer by rafting through her rapid on our Upper Grand Canyon Tour.

Although much has changed since the days of the Spanish explorers and Major John Wesley Powell, life within the great painted cliffs of the imposing Grand Canyon remains much the same. Experience Canyon history when you book a unique and exhilarating adventure with Advantage Grand Canyon.

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The Exciting Sport of Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater Rafting Is A Huge Adrenaline Rush!

Adrenaline adventure enthusiasts will likely find whitewater rafting an amazing, truly energizing experience. If you are not a hard core outdoor individual, experienced rafter,  well trained and athletic, don’t worry – there are a lot of options for families, which are mild in intensity. In fact, grand canyon rafting trips require no previous rafting skills as the guides are navigating the rapids, with the exception of a paddle raft however even in this case, no experience is necessary. The guide sits at the back of the raft and directs you and the other passengers as you dig into the water. Do not misinterpret the fact that even though you’re not rowing, that these trips are not exciting because you will be rafting through many class 7, 8, 9 and 10’s on a 1 – 10 rating scale in the Grand Canyon, not to mention incredible side canyon excursions with beautiful scenery. 

The magic of whitewater rafting is that it does not only provide a rush while on river, but it also offers the possibility to combine other memorable experiences including hiking to notable attractions and natural waterfalls as well as camping at a new location down river each night for multi-day rafting trips. These trips will entertain, energize and relax you.

If you seek a more extreme rafting adventure, you can find a river with higher class rapids but keep in mind that along with this requires higher skill level and experience. The smaller the vessel, the more challenging it is to remain inside the raft when traveling through rapids.

The raft options from most difficult to easiest are hardshell or inflatable kayak which come in one and two person configurations, paddle raft, dory boat and oar raft. The bigger raft configurations can also carry more gear and the more weight, the lower center of gravity which aids in potential capsizing. 

If wanting to raft the Colorado river in Grand Canyon, your highly skilled guides will not only navigate the river safely, but also prepare incredible meals for you during your multi day raft trip. For more information on Grand Canyon rafting, please contact us or search for your trip by clicking the banner below!

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Spring Time Rafting in Grand Canyon

Rafting In Grand Canyon

Looking to combine river adventure with a little extra peace and tranquility? Perhaps you’re looking for a unique spring break escapade? Consider joining us for a spring time Grand Canyon rafting trip. Though every season in the canyon offers its own distinct and alluring draws, our early-season trips offer lighter crowds, temperate weather, relatively calmer, clearer water and boundless opportunities to experience the springtime wildflowers and fresh, blooming vegetation nestled along the precipitous Canyon walls. 

Many consider summer to be the prime time to experience the grandeur and marvel at the vastness of the Grand Canyon. For this reason, during the summer months, the crowds within the park swell to more than half a million visitors. Though solitude and serenity will always be coupled with thrill and exertion on every raft trip organized by Advantage Grand Canyon, summer trips fill quickly and run more frequently than during any other time of the year. If you’re looking to beat the masses and experience another of the Canyon’s many facades, our spring time trips offer exactly what you seek. 

After a long, cold winter, the Canyon warms and comes to life. You’ll witness the brilliant scarlet, soothing lavender and dazzling yellow hues of the blooms adorning the Canyon’s myriad of cactus plants. Innumerable native wildflowers peak out of the fresh, wild growth, uncurl their greens and turn their faces toward the beaming Southwestern sun. These beautiful wildflowers peak in the Canyon from March until late May, making for incredible photos and allowing an up-close and personal experience with the Canyon’s distinctive flora and fauna. 

The Colorado River typically runs crystal clear or green in color in April, May and early June before the stormy season hits in July and August. After the first late spring/early summer monsoon rain, water flows down the Canyon walls, carrying red sediment with it and turning the river back to its natural burnt brick coffee color. All states and colors of the river are stunning in their own ways, and any time of the year will make for a great experience in and of itself.

Though the Colorado River flows at a chilly average of 50°F year round, the Grand Canyon’s weather fluctuates frequently. Summers tend to get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring well above 100°F, especially down in the Canyon. Hot temperatures and cold river water make for an amazing experience. However, if you prefer a more comfortable outside air temperature, April averages 83°F highs and 53°F lows and May averages 93°F highs and 67°Fs, making for some ideal hiking and rafting conditions down in the Canyon. 

If your goal is to experience big whitewater rapids in the Grand Canyon, you’ll want to aim for a late June, July or August trip. During these hot summer months, the Colorado River’s water is released at the highest rate in order to accommodate the Southwestern US’ electricity demands. If you’d still prefer an adventure, though one with less extreme rapids challenges, take a rafting trip with us during a low water season in either spring or fall. Don’t fret, you’ll still get your whitewater, but with the river carrying slightly less water during this time of the year, your overall experience will be more laid-back.

Though spring is a blissful and comfortable time of year to raft your way through the Grand Canyon, you will unquestionably experience the Canyon in all of its many faces of glory no matter what time of the year you decide to visit. Our dedicated, professional staff is here to guide you through your whole experience and ensure you book the trip best suited for your desires. Contact us today with questions and to get started!

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Difficulty Level of Rapids

Difficulty Levels of Rapids

The Grand Canyon stretch of the Colorado River often uses a different rating system for rapids. The Class 1-10 system that is used in the Grand Canyon roughly parallels Classes I-V on the International Scale of River Difficulty (ISRD). In the Grand Canyon, Classes 1-2 equal ISRD Class I, Classes 3-4 equal ISRD Class II, Classes 5-6 equal ISRD Class III, Classes 7-8 equal ISRD Class IV and Classes 9-10 equal ISRD Class V.

Rapids are rated using the International Scale of River Difficulty (ISRD). This is an American system that is used to rate the technical difficulty levels of rapids or stretches of river on a scale of 1-6 in order to give rafters an idea of the skill level needed to navigate a specific waterway. The six categories in the International Scale of River Difficulty are referred to as “classes.” Many rivers are given a general classification, but contain sections with rapids both below and above that grade. Classes of specific waterways may change frequently due to shifts in weather patterns, water level fluctuations, geological disturbances, downed trees and more. 

Below is the American Whitewater Association’s summary of classes:

Class I Rapids – Easy

Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. Risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.

Class II Rapids – Novice

Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed. Rapids that are at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class II+”.

Class III Rapids – Intermediate Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers. scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class III-” or “Class III+” respectively.

Class IV Rapids – Advanced Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require “must” moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting may be necessary the first time down. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential but requires practiced skills. A strong eskimo roll is highly recommended. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class IV-” or “Class IV+” respectively.

Class V Rapids – Expert Extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to added risk. Drops may contain** large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent, or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is recommended but may be difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is often difficult even for experts. A very reliable eskimo roll, proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced rescue skills are essential. Because of the large range of difficulty that exists beyond Class IV, Class 5 is an open-ended, multiple-level scale designated by class 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, etc… each of these levels is an order of magnitude more difficult than the last. Example: increasing difficulty from Class 5.0 to Class 5.1 is a similar order of magnitude as increasing from Class IV to Class 5.0. 

Class VI Rapids – Extreme and Exploratory Rapids These whitewater rafting runs have almost never been attempted and often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favorable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking all precautions. After a Class VI rapids has been run many times, its rating may be changed to an appropriate Class 5.x rating.

The Grand Canyon stretch of the Colorado River often uses a different rating system. The Class 1-10 system that is used in the Grand Canyon roughly parallels Classes I-V on the International Scale of River Difficulty (ISRD). In the Grand Canyon, Classes 1-2 equal ISRD Class I, Classes 3-4 equal ISRD Class II, Classes 5-6 equal ISRD Class III, Classes 7-8 equal ISRD Class IV and Classes 9-10 equal ISRD Class V.

Both the Grand Canyon’s Class 1-10 scale and the International Scale of River Difficulty are effective and invaluable in allowing a rafter to decide whether or not a particular course is within his or her own ability level. They’re useful, albeit subjective, as they’re based on expert’s opinions and subject to change without advance warning. In determining what course may be best for you, use sound judgement and don’t be afraid to ask. We’re here to help you with any and all questions you may have regarding your rafting trip. Contact us here at Advantage Grand Canyon for more information at 888-244-2224 or click below to search for your Grand Canyon rafting trip!

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What Type of Shoes Should I Bring Rafting

Whitewater Rafting Requires What Type of Shoes?

Baffled by boots and flustered by footwear? Look no further, our Advantage Grand Canyon Adventure Rafting team has your rafting answers! 

The selection of athletic-geared shoes has skyrocketed in recent years. As consumers, we’re overwhelmed with more choices than ever, making the selection process confusing and time consuming. We’ve got a few simple tips that will help you decide what kickers are best for your Grand Canyon romping.

First and foremost, if it isn’t comfortable and broken-in, don’t even think about bringing it along. The worst disservice you can do to yourself (and others whose ears are party to your grumbles) is wear a shiny new pair of shoes or hiking boots that will chafe at your toes and blister your heals. You’re better off bringing a holey pair of decade-old tennis shoes than attempting your trip with wearing new shoes. 

Expect whatever shoes you bring to get dirty and, potentially, to be destroyed by the end. You’re not hiking down a well-paved city sidewalk, folks. We’re out in the wilderness, hopping off the rafts, hiking among cactuses, wading through creeks, skipping over mud puddles…you get the idea. 

Bring shoes that will dry quickly so you won’t have to change your footgear multiple times a day. You can choose a waterproof boot, but bear in mind that you may step in water that’s deeper than your shoe is high. Water will seep in, your boot won’t dry, and the combo will make for considerable discomfort and perpetually pruney toes.

Make sure your footwear is lightweight – you will be carrying it and wet, dirty shoes get heavy. If you elect to wear sandals, they must have a heel strap or you’re certain to lose one sandal after the very first rapid. Close-toed sandals will prevent you from excruciating pain should you decide to vent your frustrations by kicking a rock. Also, check that your shoes have a nice, thick sole with a non-slip tread so you’re not slipping over wet rocks or falling on your raft mates in the boat.

 

 

Best Choices on Amazon (Save Some Dough!):

Get the best Hiking Shoe 

Best shoes for Trail Runners 

Best Hybrid Water Shoe 

Choices that are not ideal: -Heavy Hiking Boots
-Flip Flops with no toe protection
-Any brand new shoe or sandal that is not broken in

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The Number One Whitewater Rafting Destination in the United States

Whitewater Rafting Destination #1

And the award goes to, drum roll please…The Colorado River in Grand Canyon!

The Colorado River, which snakes a total of 1450 miles between America’s Southwest and northern Mexico has a particular stretch of river 280 miles long, known as the most ultimate whitewater rafting haven of the Americas. No whitewater rafting enthusiast can call river life complete until having rafted the mighty Colorado River through its ultimate region – the majestic Grand Canyon. This colossal river offers a little bit of everything for every type of person and personality. Adrenaline junkies and nature aficionados alike fall in love with the river’s splendid variation, which intermittently plunges them through massive, turbulent rapids and placidly floats them downstream over glass-like waters.

One thing is for certain. No matter who you are or what you look for in a rafting trip, you’re guaranteed to experience it all, including eons of colorful days-gone-by carved into the precipitous walls of the Grand Canyon gorge, when you float and battle your way down the omnipotent Colorado River. When you aren’t combating the powerful rapids, the calm stretches afford an exclusive view of the canyon. The journey also offers plenty of land adventure with loads of great hiking trails and beautiful beaches, and each rewarding day will culminate in a tranquil night spent sleeping on one of these sandy beaches under the stars.

Apart from its obvious otherworldly scenery, the Grand Canyon pulls ahead of all other US whitewater river systems due to its staggering variety of rapids classes. Rapids are rated using the International Scale of River Difficulty, which rates the technical difficulty levels of rapids on a scale of 1-6. Since the rapids in the Grand Canyon section of the Colorado River vary so greatly in terms of difficulty, rafting tours have been carefully crafted to suit the styles of every adventurer. First timers and relaxed rafters find excellent, laid-back tours that are fashioned along river sections containing easier-to-navigate, lower-class rapids. Thrill seekers experience heart-pounding adventures on whitewater rafting tours created just for them along sections of difficult, high-rated rapids.

Whitewater rafting is dramatically increasing in popularity as experts and addicts tout its spender and as newbies decide to have a first-time crack at it. As more and more people look for the best place to take a first stab at rafting or look for a more difficult challenge, rafting the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon becomes continually more popular. To find your perfect tour in the number 1 rated whitewater rafter destination in the United States, give us a shout and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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