Using the beer bag that will drag in the river to keep your beer cool.

Many of us appreciate an adult beverage or two while on vacation. We don’t expect this trip will be any different. You should know, Grand Canyon Whitewater does not provide, nor do we sell, any alcohol on the trip. So here are a few tips on how to enjoy a cold one on your river trip.

Dos and Don’ts of Getting Your Beverages To The Canyon

Do

• Purchase beer and wine at the Marble Canyon convenience store if you are on a trip that starts in Marble Canyon. They do not sell hard liquor.
• Place an order via the provided beverage order form in your trip information packet with a liquor store in Flagstaff (not available for all trip types). Your beverages will be delivered to our warehouse and prepacked on the boats.
• Buy alcohol in Flagstaff, AZ if that is where we pick you up to start your trip.
• You can keep drinks outside of your bag unless you are flying from Las Vegas.

Don’t

• Bring a large amount of alcohol if you’re flying with us from Las Vegas to Marble Canyon to start your river trip. It will count toward your overall weight limit.
• Attempt to carry the added weight of alcohol in your pack if you are hiking into the canyon to start your adventure. We will provide a link to a beverage order form prior to your trip and arrange to have it on board the rafts when you arrive

What To Bring

• All beer should be in cans. There’s no need to label your cans, we use the honor system in the canyon. Just know what you brought and have a good idea of how many you’ve had.
• If beer isn’t what you’re into, you can bring wine -of the boxed variety. It is typically stored away on the boat during the day and available in camp in the evenings. We will provide you with a handy souvenir mug to sip from.
• Liquor is preferred in plastic containers. If your favorite indulgence does not come in plastic, then pour it into a Nalgene, or similar plastic water bottle to bring along.
• You’ll want to bring your own mixer or follow the latest trend with canned cocktails. You might be surprised to learn that ice is usually available for cocktails in the evenings

How To Keep It Cool

Heavy-duty mesh bags (“drag bags”) are attached to each raft and wade in the Colorado River’s 55-65 degree water. You can reach into the drag bag while boating or in camp and pull out a beverage.

Good Vibes

• Focus on hydration: Alcoholic beverages don’t help in hydrating you in the dry arid environment of the Grand Canyon. If you’re drinking alcohol, be sure to increase your intake of water/electrolytes to stay hydrated.
• Respect the group: Be aware and respectful of the group. Please be sure that your enjoyment does not impede other guests’ experience.

Cheers!