More often than not, when visiting the Grand Canyon, travelers drive to the South Rim, snap a few photos, maybe speak with a park ranger, comment on its sheer magnitude and beauty and then hop back in the car and continue on their way. But for others, they need to do more and see more to feel they have really experienced this amazing Natural Wonder of the World. Most recently, I was one of those people, and while looking for things to do – like camp, hike and kayak – I learned a few helpful hints along the way.
Accessing the Colorado River
The part of the Colorado River that flows through Arizona begins on the border of Utah at Lake Powell, and ends just before Lake Mead on the Nevada border and drifts through many dams and canyons, including the Grand Canyon. But simply walking down to river’s edge and jumping into a raft is not as simple as it sounds. Because there are very few points along the river that are accessible by car, most trips are multi-day events, beginning up north and ending in the south, and many include a hike or helicopter ride.
Kayaking or rafting?
Rafting is a great way to conquer a lot of distance and requires little work on behalf of the adventure traveler. Trips range from one to 18 days and most tours take care of the food and camping equipment. Visitors may opt for either motorized rafts or non-motorized rafts, both of which are driven by guides, allowing the traveler to enjoy the breathtaking views.
If you’re someone who feels that physical labor enhances one’s overall experience and sense of accomplishment, then kayaking might be a better option.
If you are a seasoned professional and are interested in kayaking on your own, the National Park Service has set up a lottery system for self-guided trips, and those who haven’t kayaked it in the last five years receive priority. At least one person in your group must have experience white-water kayaking the Colorado River. If you want to kayak the entire stretch of the Grand Canyon with a professional guide (the route is known as Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek), most tour groups require Class 4 paddling skills, but there is usually a support boat that follows, just in case.
If you don’t have the time but still want to get in a bit of kayaking adventure in, your best bet is to head to Lake Mead or Lake Powell. Both are unique and offer plenty of options for both rafting and kayaking for people of all skill levels.
Lake Mead is closer to Las Vegas, which is where the nearest major airport is located. It’s formed by the impressive Hoover Dam and gets a bit more traffic than Lake Powell.
Lake Powell is home to the natural formation known as Rainbow Bridge, ancient Native American rock illustrations, and a wider array of sandstone, giving it a softer look and lighter color than the cliffs of Lake Mead. Lake Powell is formed by the slightly smaller Glen Canyon Dam.
For more on kayaking Lake Powell, check out Adventure in Arizona, Part II: Kayaking Lake Powell.
