Exploring the Colorado River on a full-day float trip from Sedona or Flagstaff offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. This guided adventure promises smooth-water rafting, the chance to discover ancient petroglyphs, and refreshing swims in stunning desert landscapes. With a limited group size and expert insights from professional guides, the journey promises a personalized and memorable experience. From iconic sights like the Glen Canyon Dam to the stunning Horseshoe Bend, this immersive trip provides a chance to truly connect with the rugged majesty of the Colorado River.
Key Points
- A full-day smooth-water rafting tour on the Colorado River with opportunities to explore ancient petroglyphs and swim.
- Scenic drive through Arizona’s beautiful landscapes, including Oak Creek Canyon, Painted Desert, and Navajo Nation.
- Stops at iconic landmarks like Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend, and Lee’s Ferry District.
- Inclusive package with hotel pickup, lunch, and professional guides to provide expertise and insights.
- Moderate fitness level required, and not recommended for pregnant travelers or children under 8 without a car seat.
Trip Overview
This full-day smooth-water rafting trip on the Colorado River offers visitors a chance to glide between massive cliff walls and around Horseshoe Bend on large inflatable rafts.
Departing from Sedona or Flagstaff, the tour includes a guided exploration of ancient petroglyphs, opportunities for swimming, and a riverside lunch.
Recommended by 100% of travelers with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 16 reviews, this adventure provides an immersive experience amidst the desert landscapes of Arizona.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon, Painted Desert, and Navajo Nation sets the stage for the journey.
Travelers marvel at the San Francisco Peaks and Echo Cliffs along the way. The tour makes stops at iconic landmarks, including the Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend, and the historic Lee’s Ferry District.
At the Cameron Trading Post, guests can browse American Indian crafts and mementos. Throughout the excursion, participants enjoy panoramic views of the desert landscapes.
This comprehensive itinerary ensures guests experience the region’s most breathtaking natural wonders and cultural highlights during the full-day Colorado River float trip.
Inclusions
The Colorado River float trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sedona or Flagstaff, ensuring convenient transportation for guests.
Also included are the required Colorado River fees, allowing access to the waterway.
Professional guides lead the tour, sharing their expertise and insights throughout the journey.
Complimentary lunch and bottled water are provided, so guests can refuel and stay hydrated.
The group size is capped at 14 travelers, offering a more personalized and intimate experience.
With these inclusive offerings, the Colorado River float trip provides a well-rounded and carefree adventure for participants.
Safety and Requirements
Although Arizona State Law mandates that children eight years and younger must use a car seat or booster seat, guests are responsible for providing their own.
This Colorado River float trip is not wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Pregnant travelers are advised against participating.
Casual attire with sunscreen and light clothing is recommended. While the trip is smooth-water rafting, guests should still exercise caution.
The safety and well-being of all participants is the top priority, so adherence to these requirements is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Departure Details
This Colorado River float trip departs from both Sedona and Flagstaff, with hotel pickup and drop-off service provided for convenience.
The tour starts at 6:30 am, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking. Guests can choose to be picked up from their Sedona or Flagstaff hotel, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure.
The scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon, Painted Desert, and Navajo Nation begins the journey, offering panoramic views of the desert landscapes.
The float trip is a full-day experience, lasting from departure to return drop-off at the hotel.
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Pricing and Policies
Pricing for the Colorado River float trip is $139 per adult and $129 per child under 12 years old.
The tour comes with a few important policies to be aware of:
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Cancellations are non-refundable, so guests are advised to plan accordingly.
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Arizona state law requires children 8 and younger to use a car seat or booster seat, which guests must provide.
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The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
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Pregnant travelers are not recommended to participate due to safety concerns.
What to Expect
Guests embarking on the Colorado River float trip can expect a breathtaking journey filled with stunning scenery and immersive cultural experiences.
The smooth-water rafting adventure glides past massive cliff walls and around Horseshoe Bend, offering panoramic views of the desert landscapes. Highlights include visiting ancient petroglyphs, swimming in the river, and enjoying a riverside lunch.
The trip departs from Sedona or Flagstaff, with a scenic drive through the Painted Desert and Navajo Nation. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Guests should dress in casual, comfortable attire and bring sunscreen.
About the Operator
The tour operator behind the Colorado River float trip is a locally-owned adventure company based in Sedona, Arizona. This tour provider has been leading expeditions in the region for over 20 years, offering a range of outdoor activities and excursions.
Key facts about the operator:
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Holds all necessary permits and licenses to operate river trips within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
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Employs experienced, certified guides who undergo rigorous training in safety, navigation, and customer service.
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Uses state-of-the-art rafting equipment and vessels to ensure a comfortable and secure journey.
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Maintains a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Beverages?
The tour includes a complimentary lunch and bottled water. Guests are welcome to bring their own additional snacks or beverages, as long as they are non-alcoholic. Any outside food or drink must be carried in a personal day bag.
What Is the Minimum/Maximum Number of Passengers per Raft?
The tours have a maximum of 14 travelers per group. The number of passengers per raft is not specified, but it is likely that the group is divided across multiple rafts to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Do I Need Any Prior Rafting Experience?
No prior rafting experience is required. The trip is suitable for beginners as the guides provide thorough safety instructions and assistance throughout the smooth-water river journey. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?
Arizona State Law requires children 8 years and younger to use a car seat or booster seat. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers and a moderate fitness level is required. There are no age restrictions beyond the car seat requirement.
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Trip?
Guests are welcome to take photographs and videos during the rafting trip. However, it’s advised to exercise caution near the water and avoid any actions that could endanger the safety of the group or damage photographic equipment.
The Sum Up
Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Colorado River with this guided full-day float trip from Sedona or Flagstaff. Explore ancient petroglyphs, swim in desert oases, and enjoy a riverside lunch as you take in iconic sights under the expert supervision of professional guides. With a personalized experience for up to 14 travelers, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking beauty of the American Southwest.
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