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

• If your trip starts in Mable Canyon, AZ or Las Vegas, NV: Purchase beer and wine at the Marble Canyon convenience store. They do not sell hard liquor.
• If your trip starts in Flagstaff, AZ: Buy alcohol at a local grocery store and bring it with you on the shuttle bus. There are several options within walking distance within the designated hotel.
• If your trip has a hike-into the Grand Canyon to start the trip: Purchase alcohol through our partnered vendor. A beverage order form will be sent via email (trips that start with a hike in to the canyon only). The beverages will then be delivered to our warehouse and prepacked on the boats.

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 boxed wine (no glass). 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 (availability may be limited).

How To Keep It Cool-ish

We keep your beer cool in mesh bags that hang off the boats. These “drag bags” have been utilized for generations on river trips in the Canyon to keep beverages cold enough so they are enjoyable any time of day. However, the lowering water levels of Lake Powell means the water being released through Glen Canyon Dam is warmer than in previous years. During the spring and early summer months, the water temperature tends to stay cooler, 48-55 degrees. The later summer months see much warmer water temperatures, getting as high as 70 degrees the past few years. This means that your beverage might not be as cold as expected, especially if you’ve been on a Grand Canyon river trip in the past. Make sure that whatever beverages you choose to bring on the river will be something that you will enjoy even if the river is warmer than usual. Check the current river temperature here.

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!