Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip and Horseshoe Bend From Sedona

Exploring the serene Colorado River through the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Sedona. This smooth water float trip promises stunning vistas, including the iconic Horseshoe Bend, complemented by an intimate group setting and knowledgeable guides. Witness the remarkable geology, ancient petroglyphs, and enjoy a picnic lunch on a private beach – a truly immersive connection with the great outdoors. What makes this excursion truly captivating, however, is the chance to uncover the rich history and cultural significance of this remarkable region.

Tour Overview

This full-day Colorado River float trip departs from Sedona and takes travelers on a 12-hour journey to explore the natural beauty of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

The 158-mile drive includes scenic views of Oak Creek Canyon and the San Francisco Peaks. After a stop at the Cameron Trading Post, travelers launch into the Colorado River for a 3.5-hour float through Glen Canyon.

The trip includes a picnic lunch, swimming, and stops at historic sites like Lees Ferry and the Navajo Bridge. With a maximum group size of 14, this tour offers an intimate and educational experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour departs Sedona at 6:00 am, offering scenic views of Oak Creek Canyon and the majestic San Francisco Peaks along the way.

Departing Sedona at 6:00 am, the tour offers scenic views of Oak Creek Canyon and the majestic San Francisco Peaks along the way.

Travelers make a 30-minute stop at the Cameron Trading Post to browse Native American artwork.

Then, they launch into the Colorado River for a 3.5-hour float through the stunning Glen Canyon.

During the float, they’ll stop for a picnic lunch on a beach with ancient petroglyphs and have an opportunity to swim in the river.

The return trip includes stops at balancing rocks and the historic Navajo Bridge.

Inclusion and Exclusions

Although the tour includes professional guides, a picnic lunch, bottled water, and local sales taxes, it doesn’t cover transportation outside the city limits of Flagstaff or provide child seats/booster seats, which are available if needed.

The tour fee does include a recommended 15-20% gratuity for the guides. Guests should plan to bring any necessary child safety equipment, as well as clothing and footwear suitable for spending several hours on the river.

Attractions

As the Colorado River float trip takes travelers through the stunning Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, they’ll have the chance to explore several notable attractions along the way.

First, they’ll visit the historic Lees Ferry District, a significant crossing point on the Colorado River.

The historic Lees Ferry District, a significant crossing point on the Colorado River, is the first stop on the Colorado River float trip.

Later, they’ll cross the iconic Navajo Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

While not stopping, the tour will also pass by the impressive Angels Gate and the scenic Oak Creek Canyon.

Throughout the journey, guests will marvel at the region’s remarkable geology and natural beauty.

Reviews and Feedback

The Colorado River float trip has received positive reviews from past participants.

Travelers have praised the stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the overall experience.

Some notable feedback includes:

1. "The guide was fantastic, providing great commentary on the geology and history of the area."

2. "Floating down the river was incredibly peaceful and serene, with amazing views of the canyon walls."

3. "While not as grand as the Grand Canyon, the experience was still well worth the trip from Sedona."

4. "The lunch stop with the petroglyphs was a highlight of the day."

The Colorado River Float Experience

The Colorado River float trip allows visitors to experience the serene beauty of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area from the unique vantage point of the river.

Floating along the gentle current, travelers are immersed in the stunning landscape, passing by ancient petroglyphs and opportunities to swim in the cool, refreshing waters.

The 3.5-hour journey offers a peaceful respite from the typical tourist hustle, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the area’s geology and history.

This intimate float trip provides a memorable way to connect with the natural wonders of the Colorado River canyon.

Visiting Lees Ferry Historic District

One of the highlights during the Colorado River float trip is the stop at the Lees Ferry Historic District. This 10-minute visit allows guests to explore the rich history of this important river crossing.

A 10-minute stop at the Lees Ferry Historic District allows exploration of the rich history of this important Colorado River crossing.

Visitors can:

1. View the historic Lees Ferry buildings and structures, including the ferry house and remnants of the old ferry.

2. Gain insight into the critical role Lees Ferry played as a major crossing point along the Colorado River.

3. Learn about the early settlers and Native American tribes who utilized this important transportation hub.

4. Snap photos of the stunning scenery and canyon walls surrounding the district.

This brief stop provides valuable context about the area’s history before continuing the serene float trip.

Crossing the Historic Navajo Bridge

As the Colorado River float trip nears its conclusion, visitors have the opportunity to cross the historic Navajo Bridge. This iconic bridge spans the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views.

Completed in 1928, the Navajo Bridge replaced the dangerous ferry crossing at Lees Ferry. Visitors can walk across the bridge, taking in the stunning vistas of the surrounding canyons and the river below.

The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes, providing a fitting end to the day’s adventure. Crossing the Navajo Bridge is a memorable experience, allowing travelers to connect with the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

The Sum Up

This Colorado River float trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. With knowledgeable guides, a scenic journey, and a chance to explore ancient petroglyphs, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with the region’s remarkable geology and rich history. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a relaxing adventure, this float trip is sure to leave a lasting impression.