A Grand Canyon river rafting trip is an outdoor adventure and does require some knowledge of and experience with the wilderness if you hope to best enjoy all it has to offer. However, over the years, technology, river runners, and hikers have developed equipment that makes life safer and easier in the Canyon.
For example, the worries about what happens if there is a medical emergency have long been eased by the introduction of satellite phones.
Another simple (but ingenious) invention was the drag bag. Ever wonder how we keep your drinks cold in the Grand Canyon? The Colorado River is always cold because, 15 miles up from Lees Ferry, sits Glen Canyon Dam. The water that is released from the dam is 55-65 degrees and only warms up about 1 degree every 20 miles. So the water is the best way to keep beverages cold. Heavy-duty mesh bags (“drag bags”) are attached to the back of the raft by a rope. You put your drinks in the bag and throw it into the river until you get thirsty.
Super Salve is another lifesaver on the river. This 100 percent natural balm was developed specifically for river guides to help heal dry, cracked skin that Grand Canyon can bring out like no other. It, along with lip balm and powerful sunscreen, will be your best friend on your Colorado River trip.
Grand Canyon Whitewater provides a detailed packing list to passengers with lots of other suggestions about those little things you might not think of (Bandanas have a million uses; sunglass and hat straps will save your day.) – we’ll do our best to make sure you head out for your rafting tour as well-equipped as our most seasoned guides!