There really is no such thing as a “typical day” in Grand Canyon; every day and every trip is different on the river. Below is a general daily itinerary, but remember to let yourself be open to the many possibilities a Grand Canyon raft trip presents!
MORNING/EARLY:
As the sun peeks over the Canyon walls, you’ll hear an early call for “cofffffeeeeeeeeee!” That’s your cue to head to the kitchen and grab a cup of joe so you can start getting ready for the day. A short while later, guides will call you to breakfast. Whatever you’re doing, STOP and go eat! After breakfast, continue packing up your camp and bringing your gear down to the rafts. Helping with the morning “duffel shuffle” to re-load everything back on the rafts is a daily exercise. Once everyone has helped load up the rafts, we all go rafting on the Colorado River!
ON THE RIVER:
After boarding the rafts, we’ll head downstream, encountering world-class whitewater, gorgeous views and wildlife along the way. Oftentimes, you’ll want your rain gear handy in the early morning. Your large waterproof bag will be packed away on the rafts, but your small waterproof bag and the community shoe bag will be nearby and accessible to you throughout the day. Expect to stop and take a hike during the day, make a rest stop or two and to stop for lunch on a riverside beach.
While there is typically a plan for the day, don’t be alarmed when a plan shifts from plan A to B, maybe C, or even D. Guides will evaluate and change plans throughout the day to give the best of what the Canyon has to offer. Each day brings new beauty and adventure. To recharge and energize you throughout the day, snacks and fruit are available on the boat. In the afternoon or early evening, your guides will find a beach campsite and the unloading process will begin.
IN CAMP:
Upon arrival at the evening’s campsite, guides will ask for your help in the evening “duffel shuffle” to unload all the gear off the rafts. Guides then will set up the bathroom and kitchen areas while you find your campsite and set up your sleeping area. There’s usually a bit of leisure time for socializing, enjoying a beverage by the river, reading or bathing before guides set out an appetizer. A Dutch-oven cooked or grilled dinner will be served and, soon after, the stars will begin to sparkle.
